THE ever-growing band of Forest of Dean history enthusiasts look forward to October. For them, it is not Hallowe’en or the beginning of the countdown to Christmas that signifies the slide into autumn; rather the arrival – as certain as the migration of swans to Slimbridge – of the latest edition of The New Regard.

Now in its 30th year, The Regard is the annual journal of the Forest of Dean Local History Society. From small beginnings, it has become the ‘must have’ pre-Christmas present for those interested in the many aspects of local goings-on over the past couple of thousand years!

In his editorial, the editor, Ian Standing, makes it clear that the aim of the exercise is not to produce a deeply academic tome: rather to publish research and information concerning the Forest of Dean. He points out that topics to appear in print have ranged from a study of the Upper Palaeolithic era to life in 20th century Lydbrook. In short, it’s a golden opportunity to see what others are getting their noses into!

And he wants more. Ian writes: “Please keep the contributions flowing in, and remember that articles from any source, beginner or expert, are always welcome.”

Those with something of interest up their sleeves can take a look at what has gone before, and the huge range of subjects tackled, by looking at the detailed on-line index available within the society’s website. There’s a new e-shop and a digital reprint service.

The latest Regard is another rich mix of investigation, exploring bone cave hunting in the Wye Valley with Chris Bowen, and pounding out the miles with Keith Walker who scrutinises the development of roads in the Forest following the demise of turnpikes. It probably explains why we still have a bumpy ride today!

Other subjects include Cherry Lewis’s in-depth look at David Mushet’s geological map of the Dean; Christine Martyn on Forest miners and the growth of trade unions; an exploration into the roots of the Congregational churches at Littledean and Coleford by Averil Kear; Oxford Park End Street and the Forest of Dean by Mary Prior; and David Mullin’s fascinating insight into the life of Captain Mayne Reid, the author who based two of his books locally.

The best known, No Quarter!, was a rip-roaring Civil War yarn, mixing fiction with some fact. It told the story of Ambrose Powell and his family, of Hollymead, a large house at Ruardean, and their adventures, culminating in a battle, fought at night, in the flood waters of the Severn near Westbury.

Other engaging characters include (in Chris Bowen’s Wye caves exploration) the tale of a local guide called ‘Jem the Slipper’, a man who eked out an extraordinary existence living on the Doward for many years in a dug-out cave, roofed over with branches and turfs.

Jem made a living as a guide and by selling rock specimens and fossils. He also sold rabbit-skin slippers, hence his nick-name.

His real name was James Lewis and he died in 1882, aged 86.

The New Regard is available from many local outlets or through the society’s website. It costs £8 (£6 to society members).

•Ben Lennon has won the Cyril Hart award for his article on Forest of Dean meends in last year’s journal.

The society is now one of the biggest in the West of England and new members are always welcome. Details are available on the website or by attending the next meeting to be held at the Memorial Hall, Drybrook, on November 7 when the speaker will be the deputy gaveller, Daniel Howell (3pm).