BOB Smyth, in his report on Lydbrook wondered why there wasn't a trail in place celebrating the fascinating history and landscape of this beautiful valley. Well Bob, we're working on it!
Two researchers, Vicki Thornton and myself, have been investigating whether the residents of Lydbrook would like to become involved in setting up an industrial heritage walk, linking the Forest of Dean Family Trail to the River Wye. As a true example of joined-up thinking, the research also ties in with the Dean by Definition project, and Dean Heritage Museum's Oral History Project.
Overall the idea of setting up a trail was welcomed by village residents and traders, and several have volunteered to be part of a committee to be put into place to turn the vision into reality. The idea has been presented to the parish council, who offered their full support. The Local History Society will act in an advisory capacity – they have a wealth of information and photographs, which can already be accessed through the Dean Heritage Museum's web-site (http://www.dean-heritage.demo.co.uk">www.dean-heritage.demo.co.uk). Members of Lydbrook WI involved in developing the White Arrow Heritage Trail, have provided us with the benefit of their experience, together with the maps and brochures the WI produced. The headteachers at Lydbrook and Joys Green schools are also keen to participate in developing the walks. Local hostelries and shops will help promote the walk and sell brochures. The Forestry Commission will provide advice on health and safety issues, and as long as their advice is heeded, they are quite happy for their pathways to be used in parts of the trail.
There are many potential funding opportunities to help ensure the trail provides a fascinating insight into both the industrial history and the natural environment of the village. These opportunities could include funding for local artists to create works that reflect the history and culture of the village, for poetry and creative writing relevant to the project, for beautifully presented way-marking, all to be generated by the people of the parish. Many local businesses have agreed to provide sponsorship to ensure the trail is well maintained and publicised year on year.
This is a pilot project, the brainchild of Alison Lingham of the Library Service. The idea is to attract visitors down from the centre of the Forest and the well marketed Dean Family Trail, into the villages to the benefit of the local community.
By the way, so far only one person has volunteered to have their memories of Lydbrook recorded for posterity. If you have lived in the village long enough to witness the many changes that have taken place over the last five or six decades, whether you still live in Lydbrook or not, how about getting those memories down on tape, so future generations can understand how it used to be? To participate in the Oral History Project, contact Kate Bough at the Dean Heritage Museum, on 01594 822170.
So Bob, we hope that perhaps next year you will visit us again and enjoy the wealth of learning the trail will provide, as well as the sheer beauty of the Lydbrook Valley.
A full report about initial research project is available through Alison Lingham at the Library Service, on 01594 827710. – Jaqui Fabian, Greystones, Lydbrook.