The year began with recognition for two notable residents of the Forest of Dean in the New Year Honours List. Zehra Zaidi, from Longhope, was awarded an OBE for her contributions to international development, humanitarian action, and community cohesion.

Dr Andy Stott, from Stott, received an MBE for his services to nature and climate, particularly in his role as a former science advisor to DEFRA. Zaidi had been a strong advocate for improving the visibility of under-represented groups in British institutions.

January also marked the search for a new Steward of the historic Court of His Majesty’s Verderers of the Forest of Dean. Kieron Griffin, who had held the role for over 40 years, retired, opening a rare opportunity to influence the management of this 800-year-old Court.

In health news, Gloucestershire County Council pledged £5.8 million annually to fund a new drug and alcohol treatment service starting in April.

Delivered by the charity Via, the service aimed to provide confidential treatment and support to adults struggling with substance misuse across the county. The initiative ran for an initial five years, with the possibility of a four-year extension, potentially bringing the total funding to £52.2 million.

February saw mixed reactions to proposals for a new Active Travel crossing of the River Wye at Monmouth.

The planned bridge, set to run parallel to the Grade II listed Wye Bridge, aimed to provide a safe and convenient route for pedestrians and cyclists. However, it raised concerns among local business owners about the potential impact on access and parking. Emrys Cook, of Adventure River Ltd, voiced his worries over how the bridge might affect public access and parking for canoe and kayak businesses.

Despite these concerns, the project aimed to enhance connectivity and encourage sustainable transport options in the area.

Mayhem Youth Theatre Group brought a dose of musical theatre to Monmouth with a production of the iconic Oliver!

The award-winning group’s performance, held at Monmouth School for Girls, was a hit, featuring popular songs like Food Glorious Food and Consider Yourself. This was the group’s second junior show, following last year’s successful production of Bugsy Malone.

March brought significant environmental news as Severn Trent announced a £270 million investment in storm overflows across Gloucestershire.

This long-term initiative, part of their Storm Overflow Action Plan, aimed to improve river health and reduce spillages into watercourses. Over 2,400 storm overflows across the region were equipped with monitors, enabling closer monitoring of river conditions and the analysis of around 300 million data points annually.

The investment represented a crucial step towards achieving a no-spill target by 2045, five years ahead of government deadlines. Bob Stear, Severn Trent’s Chief Engineer, emphasised the importance of this long-term investment in improving river health and delivering real benefits to local rivers and communities.

In Newent, young people participated in Active Gloucestershire’s Give it a Go Day at Newent Community School, trying out new sports activities, particularly aimed at those with special educational needs.

The event provided an inclusive platform for young athletes to engage in sports they might not otherwise have had the chance to try. Councillor Jackie Dale praised the enthusiasm and enjoyment among participants and coaches, noting that the event allowed young people to discover new interests and talents.

Attendees also had the chance to meet local sports stars, including Archi Eaton, a boccia competitor who recently won the BC5 championship at the Heathcoat Cup as part of the English National Championships.

Electric vehicle charging points were installed in Lydney as part of a county-wide programme. The four new chargers, located at Templeway West near the town hall, represented a significant step towards a greener future in the Forest.

The county council aimed to have over 1,000 chargepoints installed across Gloucestershire by the end of 2024, supported by a £3.629 million grant from the Department for Transport.

These new charging points, which cost 48p per kilowatt hour, aimed to encourage the shift to electric vehicles and tackle climate change.

Councillor Preest, the county councillor for Lydney, welcomed the installation, noting its prime location and the positive message it sent about addressing the climate crisis.