AN arts project to explore the World War II memories of Forest people has won £25,800 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

‘Our Secret Forest’ will enable young people to engage in local history by connecting them with members of their community through their shared heritage.

Using these collected memories, the Arts in Rural Gloucestershire (AIR in G) project will culminate in November with a live performance created by young actors from Found in the Forest Youth Theatre.

The Forest was and remains a place of secrets, and has played a central role in much of Britain’s rich heritage across the centuries.

But the events witnessed by Foresters in the war still reverberate today, and working in partnership with the Dean Heritage Centre, pupils from local schools and AIR in G’s youth theatre will be mining this rich seam of community history over the next few months.

An exhibition celebrating the project will also go on display at the Dean Heritage Centre.

AIR in G wants to hear from anyone who would like to be involved.

They want to hear from anyone who was a child in the Forest of Dean during the war, and has memories they would like to pass on.

If you know of anyone who was evacuated to the Forest, or who has a story about the American soldiers who were deployed to the area, that would also be of interest.

Any teachers who would like their school to host a free workshop, or youngsters who would like to be part of the project, are also invited to get in touch.

AIR in G executive director Ed O’Driscoll said: “We are thrilled to have received the support of the Heritage Lottery Fund. The project will enable young people to learn about this important part of their community’s history.”

Nerys Watts, HLF South West chief, said: “We’re delighted that money raised by National Lottery players can support young people in Gloucestershire to explore the hidden heritage of the Forest of Dean.

"With HLF support, participants will be able to learn new skills, connect with different generations in their community and engage with their local history.”

AIR in G is a county-wide organisation that offers financial and practical support to individuals or organisations who wish to host professional performances at their local village hall, community centre or school.

It also delivers weekly youth theatre classes for young people aged seven to 19 in Cinderford.

In 2015, the youth theatre was chosen from more than 300 other entrants to perform at the National Theatre as part of their Connections programme.

Contact AIR in G on 01989 566644 or email [email protected]