THE Dean Heritage Centre is celebrating a £50,000 grant from Biffa Award for the second phase of its hydroelectricity project.

The Biffa Award funding will be used to create a brand new exhibition space to demonstrate green sustainable energy, including new interpretation about the history of the water wheel and its impact on the camp mill site throughout the decades.

The centre is committed to involving and supporting the local community and working with volunteers to develop a programme of activities to educate people on sustainable energy using green technologies.

The environmental project, which was awarded funding under Biffa Award's cultural facilities theme, will also include a new schools programme of dedicated tours and brand new workshops exploring 'sustainable' energy generation technologies, such as the onsite water wheel.

Commenting on the funding, centre manager Nathalie Hall said: "I am delighted that Biffa Award is able to support the Dean Heritage Centre with this grant. The funds will further enhance the centre's educational and tourism offer which in turn will ensure the future viability and sustainability of our charitable organisation."

Prior to receiving £50,000 from Biffa, a 10 per cent contribution was provided by the Rotary Club of the Royal Forest of Dean.

•The oak tree which was brought down by high winds blocking entry to the popular Gruffalo's Child trail has been removed.

An onsite maintenance team and local countryside management specialist, Joe Rose, undertook a painstaking operation to remove the tree which fell overnight on January 8.

A spokeswoman for the centre said: "Moving the tree in order to open the trail was a slow process due to its size, weight and the difficulty of its location but the trail is now safe for visitors and the entire site. The adventure playground, cottage and galleries are fully operational."