RIDING on the footplate of a Dean Forest Railway locomotive was just one experience that was given to two local politicians last week, as they came on a fact finding mission to Lydney.

Cllr Brian Pearman of Lydney Town Council, and leader of Gloucester County Council, Cllr Mark Hawthorne, were allowed into the cab of the live steam loco as it travelled between Lydney and the steam centre in Norchard, as they experienced the impact that tourism has on the town.

They were joined by County Cllr Alan Preece, and Ben Gray, the Chairman of the Dean Forest Railway.

Organised by County Cllr Preece, the trip brought the four politicians together for their second visit to the town.

Cllr Preece told the Review: "The first visit was to the town centre itself, and around Bathhurst Park, to give an impression of how the town is busy and working. This second visit was to show how the tourism affects the town.

"The train itself was very busy, and really showed how a well-run attraction like the Dean Forest Railway can have a significant impact on a town."

He added: "We are planning more visits of this type, as we are trying to get away from an impression that Lydney is some sort of lost kingdom on the other side of the river."