I WOULD like to pass on to readers of the Review a few observations regarding my regular Friday shopping trip from Newnham to Cinderford on the Belfitt bus.

Dave picks up in Dean Road, through the village, along the A48 near Elton, then up to Popes Hill, into Littledean and onto Cinderford.

We have a good two hours to shop and whatever other business we need to complete and the last drop off is home in time for lunch.

To recommend Dave first. He is most cordial, cheerful and very patient with those of us who may be heavy laden on our return journey. He loads up our bags and trolleys with a smile and encouragement.

My fellow travellers are the salt of the earth as the saying goes – sharing news, kind and concerned enquiries, offers of help for those who might need it, and laughter, lots of it, and that is very often instigated by one passenger (she will know who she is) who sings us along our way home until we drop her off at Littledean.

Cinderford, being hilly, can tire us out by the time we have finished, but coupled with the very cheerful Co-operative staff and other local shoppers with whom we can pass the time of day without even knowing their name, it is all very cordial, making a necessary exercise a real community joy.

Thursday November 17 was Kindness Day apparently, but I encounter kindness every day in some way or another in the Forest.

All our lives can be so enhanced by such positive interaction.

– Margaret Coles, Dean Road, Newnham.