Many club members visit this ancient woodland to check out some of the specialist birds that the forest has to offer.

The best time to visit is probably during the early spring and autumn/winter periods when the summer canopy is not in full bloom.

The favourite and most watched sites are at RSPB Nagshead, New Fancy View and the pools around Cannop ponds but anywhere in the forest can be good and it's just as rewarding to wander off and explore your own woodland tracks.

Despite the physical barrier of the river Severn and bridge, the Forest of Dean is a lot closer than you think......

Many thanks to Allan Chard for letting us use these photos which were all taken recently in the forest.