THE Forest's newest publishing business, Yorkley A and E, is not about to make a fortune. But principles David Adams and Chris Nancollas will make many new friends.

David, the journalist, and Chris, the doctor, are exploring the hidden corners of local history and first up is the task – a pleasurable one, they admit – to dig out all they can about their home village of Yorkley.

Many Forest historians will have heard of the poet Richard Morse. But to most he has only been a name, almost – but not quite – forgotten. Now he has flesh and bones!

Carefully researched and very nicely presented, 'A Native Forester – The life and poems of Richard Morse of Yorkley' peels away 200 years of history and puts Morse firmly in his Yorkley setting. It's a great piece of work.

Born out of a desire to flag up more creative opportunities in the village, the writing duo plan a raft of publications and to begin they are very localised.

Beautifully written, 'A Native Forester' places Morse firmly in his time, exploring and explaining the rapid developments which were changing the Forest in the decades after his birth in March 1811.

It's a book about time and place, the important elements which also guide the authors into other projects sure to find a ready market for those who thirst for local knowledge.

David explains: "We can get our money back if we are very careful. We feel that we are contributing something and it is an interesting challenge to write for an essentially limited audience."

Yorkley A and E, he says, has been founded to promote arts and entertainment in the area.

Projects in the pipeline include 'A Disorderly Settlement' which explores the origins and development of Yorkley, 'From Severnside to Circassia', an investigation into the adventures of William Wickenden, of Etloe, and 'Forest Poets of Today' an introduction into the works of a dozen local poets.

'A Native Forester' is a limited edition of 200 copies. It costs a modest £5 and is available at the Forest Bookshop, Coleford and Yorkley Post Office. JP