HISTORIANS believe they have discovered the remains of a section of the Forest of Dean’s “great enclosure” built over 300 years ago but quickly destroyed by rebellious local people.

The find has been made at Brockallditches, near Parkend, by a group of enthusiasts taking part in the Foresters’ Forest project.

Organiser Andrew Hoaen explained: “The enclosure was short-lived as local people were determined to keep the forest open. Over the years there were many incidents but the best known surrounds the events of 1688.”

More detail will be given when Mr Hoaen speaks to members the Forest of Dean Local History Society meeting at the West Dean Centre, Bream,on Saturday (March 9). His talk, ‘Trees, people and archaeology: understanding ancient trees in the Forest of Dean’ will concentrate on the area around The Speech House as well as the enclosure find at Parkend.

The 1688 event became well known because the destruction of walls and fences was well-recorded and said to have been carried out by “a tumultuous rabble.”

Mr Hoaen said: “ The enclosure has the route of a dramway associated with coal-mining running through it. There is a lot of history associated with the Speech House area and much we can learn from ancient trees.”

Pupils from Lydbrook School will also be taking part, giving a demonstration of some of the things they have undertaken as part of the Foresters’ Forest project.

Visitors are welcome to the event, which starts at 3pm.