THE replacement of a missing sign for City Lane is being celebrated in Yorkley.

Its reinstatement followed a short talk by local writer David Adams on 'Lost Yorkley', listing the various parts of the village that had great historical interest but were largely unknown.

Mr Adams said: "One of these was Yorkley City, commemorated in a poem published in 1840 by a local man and Bard of the Forest, Richard Morse of Crown Lane.

"In my talk I bemoaned the fact that all traces of the City had disappeared – not only the names of the houses but the City Lane sign. As a result of this a local lady, Eileen Gilgannon, took the initiative and contacted the council.

"We are delighted this small piece of history has now been reinstated. It's important we remember the history of the Forest, and indeed the 'lost' poets, too, and Yorkley City is a quirky and fascinating piece of the past that I'd hate to see disappear."

Mr Adams together with local man Chris Nancollas has now completed a booklet about Richard Morse which includes some of his poems. A Native Forester, published by Yorkley A&E, will be launched at the beginning of April.

Neil Creed from the Forest of Dean District Council, who arranged for the sign to be replaced, said: "We were really pleased to be able to replace this sign and hope it helps raise awareness of this piece of local history."

Cllr Brian Robinson, cabinet member for Efficient Council added: "This is an intriguing piece of history, and one which should be celebrated."

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YORKLEY CITY

This city, never found in maps

Nor e'en describ'd in gazetteer.

Is quite as singular, perhaps,

As any city, far or near

'Tis located on a rising ground,

Its towers extensive view command,

Delightful is the country round,

And then the streets, how truly grand.

Just in its centre is a square

Such squares are very seldom seen;

It has of length a treble share,

And used to be a bowling-green.

The government is vested in

Nobody, I aver to you;

No major's grace is there to win,

Nor rebel fury to subdue.

Do not think this an empty strain,

No, nor a madman's random fable;

I say it only does contain,

In all, three houses and a stable.

The city answering this description,

At Yorkley you may always find;

It is a city by prescription,

Which leaves all other law behind.

– Richard Morse