TWO new permanent sculptures were unveiled on Friday to mark the 30th anniversary of the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trail.

Coal Measure Giants by Henry Castle and Yasasin by Pomona Zipser join two other new sculptures unveiled earlier this year as part of a £100,000 regeneration of the trail, beginning at Beechenhurst, which now boasts a total of 20 sculptures.

Andrew Stonyer, chair of the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trust, said: “Whether providing a

different perspective through which to navigate and understand the Forest or creating moments of quiet contemplation, the trail has established itself as a centre for contemporary commissioning.

It attracts more than 300,000 visitors every year and its sculptures seek to show that there’s more to the Forest of Dean than first meets the eye.

“The two new works are a fitting celebration of 30 years of artists who have, over the years, sought to reveal the Forest’s myriad stories. We look forward to welcoming old and new generations of visitors to learn more about the Forest through these unique artworks.”

As yet no plans are in place to replace the iconic Giant’s Chair sculpture, officially called Place, which was dismantled on health and safety grounds last year.

Among the guests at the launch was Lydney-based artist Rachel Shilston.

Speaking about Henry Castle’s work, she said: “It’s got a lovely impact as you approach it.

“I really love the texture and how it celebrates the local industry of the Forest of Dean.