Listening to the loud noises reverberating through the Forest media, I can only conclude that there is an epidemic of anti-Tory-mania.

Before the epidemic turns pandemic, should not someone point to those infected that the cure rests in their own hands. It is time for cool heads of all political persuasions to prevail and challenge the rumours, myths and superstitions feeding the bugs.

All in the Forest of Dean need to join up to make the most of the opportunities presented in the proposed legislation to gain more local control and improve the safeguards to the Forest of Dean's unique features and the freedoms of all those who live and work here and those who visit.

The Forestry Commission framework, set up after the First World War to manage Britain's strategic timber reserves, has fulfilled its purpose. The Forest of Dean did best when it was a working and living Forest and paid its keep.

The Forestry Commission was already looking at getting commercial value to balance its books and selling off parts.

The circumstances today are quite different. We need to look beyond the immediate commotion and start a discussion on what form of organisation and governance is best suited to the changing times and how to balance commercial and leisure interests so it will endure.

In the meantime the public consultation is open and all have a chance to make their views known. The numbers participating and quality of responses would show that those shouting loudest now would be prepared to contribute their effort and time.

I believe Mark Harper our MP has been right all along with his prognosis and came out stronger from the ordeal. We need Mark to fight our corner in the Commons through the detail stages of the bill and guide us through the change.

I have little doubt he will deliver.

– Venk Shenoi, Blaisdon.