The Forest of Dean Heritage and Rural Crafts training initiative

Draft Proposal

Aims:

•    To develop a range of Heritage and Rural Craft training programmes which build on traditional skills in - Wood, Stone, Metal, Horticulture / Smallholding, Food and Drink and promotes the rural economy of the Forest of Dean.

•    To introduce a Rural Heritage Apprenticeship Programme, linked to small businesses, using and promoting traditional skills.

Examples being: Dry stone walling, Wheelwrighting, Forestry / Coppicing, Small Quarrying and Free Mining

Introductory Programme:

How to make `Traditional Homemade Products':

Linked to seasons of the year - how to successfully make:

• Wine

• Cider

• Jams and Preserves • Cakes

Including: Food Hygiene regulations How to market the products Developing long-term sustainability.

Next Step:

•    To hold an exploratory meeting with Wendy Jackson and Dawn Ward to investigate possible initial funding via the Cinderford Regeneration Project and to review the viability of setting up the scheme within the Forest of Dean.

Contacts:

Web address:                www.deanforestvoice.org

E-mail address:             chairman@deanforestvoice.demon. co.uk

Postal address:            Hon. Secretary, Dean Forest Voice, Greenwoods Farm, Joyford, Coleford, Gloucestershire. GL16 7AS.