(with apologies to R. Kipling)
If we sit around and let it happen,
If we assume that someone else will act,
And just believe it's no more than a rumour,
We might wake up one day and find it's fact.
If we sell off these ancient wooded acres,
If we give up our Forest to be sold,
Then we must hang our heads in shame...for surely
It matters more than any buyer's gold.
If we accept assurances we're given,
If we're convinced the "saving clause" will stand,
Forgive us if we worry just a little
When fences seem to grow on common land.
If those who know feel we are over anxious,
If they feel we seek smoke where there's no fire,
Then see it as a measure of our caring
For this most special part of Gloucestershire.
So come you Foresters defend your birthright,
This much loved spot...this haven where you dwell,
This place is not for owning but for sharing,
This heritage is ours...but not to sell.
Let those who rule know there's no IF about it,
We Foresters are stubborn and will fight
To keep the Dean unspoiled, it's pathways open
For centures to come...our cherished right.
One more concerned Forester.