Residents who take part in the Forest Lottery have helped to raise more than £1200 for the Dean Heritage Centre in Soudley, raising valuable funds for the charity throughout the difficulty of the past couple of years.

Cabinet member for finance, Cllr Richard Leppington said: "It's great to see such a cultural and historic venue such as the Dean Heritage Centre continue to thrive even during the pandemic and subsequent lockdowns.

"It is extremely difficult for tourism attractions such as this to remain open when visitor numbers were greatly reduced and the support from Forest Lottery players helps to ensure that funds can continue to be raised.

"We welcome all local causes who wish to join the Forest Lottery to sign-up and begin fundraising and all who are interested in supporting a cause close to their heart can do so via the Forest Lottery website."

The Dean Heritage Centre first opened in 1983 and houses artefacts and historical pieces throughout the history of the Forest of Dean, helping to tell the story of the environment, its mining heritage and the animals and people that call the forest home.

Recent additions include the popular Gruffalo Trail and the centre regularly showcases local artists through craft demonstrations on site.

Joanne Clarke, engagement manager at The Dean Heritage Centre said: "As a charity we receive no Government funding to remain open and rely on visitors coming through the doors and supporting us to stay open.'

"The past couple of years have been extremely difficult for the centre with lockdowns and the lower number of visitors during that time. We joined the Forest Lottery in May 2020 and we're so thankful to the supporters and players who have helped raise funds to keep the Centre open.

"As we now move out of the pandemic we have some great events planned throughout Easter and the Summer holidays and look forward to welcoming everyone to the Dean Heritage Centre to see the best of what the Forest has to offer."