Many times I have written to the Review criticising the Forest council. What a lovely feeling to be able to do the opposite.

The submission of the response of the Forest of Dean District Council regarding the Forest of Dean reminded me of the American Declaration of Independence written in 1776. Very few public pronouncements ever reach that standard but I believe that the text of the submission did. Whoever wrote it deserves recognition.

Secondly, wasn't it lovely to find that the submission had the backing of all the councillors without reference to party opinions. And wasn't it lovely to find that before forming those opinions, they  considered the views of those they represent and even actively sought the views of the young of pre voting age. May I humbly suggest that Forest residents go out of there way to thank their councillors to give them encouragement to continue in this way.

I hope that this, the first major policy declaration of the new council, is a model for future policy decisions.

– The Dreamer (name and address supplied).