A NOISY demonstration was held outside the Forest Council’s offices in Coleford as the company behind plans for “unconventional gas extraction” in the district gave a presentation to councillors.

Around 50 supporters of FOOF (Frack Off Our Forest) gathered on Monday afternoon to show their opposition to South Western Energy’s plans.

South Western Energy had been invited to brief councillors on a ‘scrutiny task group’ who are conducting an investigation into ‘fracking’.

The company has said it will make at least one test drill for coal-bed methane in the district.

Owen Adams, of FOOF, said: “Our demonstration is not directed against the council but at South Western Energy.

“We are calling for the company to surrender, relinquish or withdraw its government-issued licences which include a firm commitment to drill.

“We are committed, through local democracy and whatever other means necessary, to ensure South Western Energy does not get a foot in the door, however benign its first step in exploration may seem.”

FOOF is also trying to get the council to act as an “independent arbiter” to bring together the campaign group, the company and Forest MP Mark Harper in a public meeting.

A spokesperson for the Forest of Dean District Council said: “We can confirm that a protest took place at the Coleford council offices on Monday, April 25.  We can confirm that the offices remained open to the public as normal and the presentation to members continued as planned.”

At a recent meeting of the council, Cabinet member for Envronment Cllr Marillyn Smart (Con, English Bicknor and Christ­church) said the task group would take evidence from all sides.

The group is expected to publish its report in July.