I AM delighted to read that Mike Jones has organised a meeting at the Miner's Hall in Cinderford on Friday, March 9 and invited Foresters to come and put their views forward on the subject of Special Status. I join him in hoping that Foresters of all complexions including those who are recent incomers to the Forest as well as longstanding residents will come and make their views known. Mike Jones is quite right to emphasise that we especially need young people to come and give their views on the future of the Forest.
As one who helped to get the initial promise on Special Status, I know that it is vital to obtain the views of a wide range of the Forest community rather than allow the process to be driven by small interest groups.
Bob Freshwater who also had a letter on Special Status in last week's Review, took the opportunity to ask Tony Blair a question about it at the meeting at Hartpury last week. The Prime Minister said he was aware that the process was under way and that he was sure that Diana Organ would keep him informed.
We have the interest at the heart of Government, so now is the time to express your views on what you want for the Forest of Dean. So whether you have lived in the Forest for one year or 50, turn up on Friday and make your views known. The officer of the Countryside Agency with responsibility for the Forest will be there to listen and take note of your views. – Peter Chard, chairman, Action Against Quarrying.