IN?A?recent letter by J. Chard, of Cinderford, it was sad to read she has had no joy with Forest Trades-people.

My story is a little different.

I moved to Cinderford about four years ago to be with my partner.

I am a qualified interior decorator, for the last 20 years I have been self-employed and previously I worked for the American Army.

I have never run out of work and I have many customers from all walks of life, but I do not get any work in the Forest of Dean.

I spoke to other people who have tried to set up a business in the Forest without success.

I would love the chance to look at some local work let alone do it. At the moment my weekly fuel costs are over £70 a week.

Maybe one day someone will give me a chance and I'll crack open some champagne.

– John Cottrell, Cinderford.