A MEMORIAL tree sculpture which commemorates the history of mining in the Forest has been fully restored by the sculptor who made it after it was found vandalised earlier this year.

The Hod Boys Memorial carving, located on the Blue Rock Path in Upper Soudley, was found severed from its platform back in April, but has now been repaired by sculptor John Wakefield and restored to its original place on the trail.

The damaged sculpture was found broken in half by walkers, with the boy having been removed from the platform and laid on the ground nearby.

The family who found the carving in its’ vandalised state lifted the boy back onto the platform and posted photos of the damage online.

The poignant tree sculpture was placed at the site in 2002 as part of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee celebrations, and depicts one of the young workers found in the Forest’s coal mines in the early 20th century.

Sculptor John Wakefield, who made the carving originally, restored the wooden memorial with the help of his daughters.

Funding to complete the work was provided by Ruspidge and Soudley Parish Council and Gloucestershire county councillors through grants from Shire Hall for community projects.

Photos of the restored sculpture were posted online by Ruspidge and Soudley Parish Council, and local residents said it was "brilliant" to see the ’Hod Boy’ back in place on the trail.

One person commented: "The amount of work that went into its restoration which has safeguarded its future is substantial, and hopefully it will be welcomed by all who can enjoy it in the years to come!

"Hats off to you John!"

Another added: "So happy he’s back, will have a walk down there tomorrow to have a look.

"It’s so important to see him and read the history otherwise we take what we have now for granted and don’t see what our families went through!"