A FAMOUS landmark in Bream which was removed 90 years ago has been reinstated in a nearby garden.

Bream’s maypole once stood in the middle of the main road but was cut down and re-

moved by Gloucestershire County Council in November 1925. It was said to pose a danger to motor traffic.

Maypoles were once a common sight in English villages and they were at the centre of the May Day festivities which involved dancing and celebrations.

Bill Parker, who lives at the former New Inn, suggested to Bream Gardening Society last year they reinstate the pole in his garden as a way to celebrate their 150th anniversary. He offered the opportunity to erect the pole in his garden – the nearest point to the original site.

Society members Ian and Diana Standing, Ladi Broadman, his son Leon, and Andrew Phillips, of the Forest of Dean Bee Keepers, teamed up to strip the tree and move it to the Flour Mill, in Bream, ready to be painted.

The society’s secretary Jennifer Lang said: “The new maypole is in place and looks wonderful.

“Bill Parker is a benefactor to Bream and supports many things that go on in the village. He runs the steam engine repair depot at the former Flour Mill colliery building which he rescued from ruin and restored.

“Di Standing, our programme secretary, became involved as she has a number of felled trees close to her home. The Forestry Commission selected a suitable one and this will now become

a wonderful permanent tribute to the society.

“Now it’s in its place, it would be special if local children could dance around it.”