•John Harvey, Forest of Dean deputy gaveller, has retired from the ancient and historic office which for centuries has been linked to Forest of Dean free mining traditions. A Crown appointment, the deputy gaveller's task is to administer free mining and lease gales (areas alloted for mining) on behalf of the Crown. He also has the responsibility of collecting mineral loyalties. Freeminers, cavers and quarrymen joined with Forestry Commission staff to bid a fond farewell to Mr Harvey (front). Left to right: Ben Lennon (FC), Maurice Febry (bats and caving club), Paul Taylor (caving club), Dave Harvey (freeminer), Jane Kent (FC), John Hines (miner and caving club), Nick Bull (quarryman), Glynn Bullock (FC), Richard Davies (FC), Jim Sauter (FC), Dave Clark (FC), Kay Morse (FC), Tony Forster (HM mines inspector) and Penny Duggleby (FC).