MEMBERS of the Forest of Dean Camera Club stepped back in time last week as they recreated scenes from the district's mining heritage during a special photoshoot at Clearwell Caves.

Around 20 photographers took part in the evening event last week, using the historic cave system as a backdrop to capture images reflecting the tough conditions faced by generations of Forest miners.

Five models, including three children, took part in the shoot, with the youngest aged just six. Organisers said the inclusion of children reflected the area's mining history, when youngsters as young as five were employed underground. Thankfully, the modern-day models spent only two hours in the caves, rather than the 12-hour shifts, six days a week, endured by many child workers in years gone by.

Clearwell Caves owner Johnathan Wright opened the attraction especially for the club and provided a range of authentic mining props, including pickaxes, shovels and an old pneumatic drill, helping bring the historic scenes to life.

Photographers were able to work across four different locations within the caves. One of the most popular settings was a small recess once used by miners as a makeshift tearoom. Complete with mugs, a tea jug and a simple wooden plank for seating, the scene offered a glimpse into daily life underground, although organisers joked there was no tea left in the cups.

The evening was organised by camera club members Alan Waterman and Nick Stewart, who visited the caves beforehand with Mr Wright to plan the event and identify the best locations.

The organisers were delighted when, at the end of the evening, Mr Wright asked that the agreed hire fee should not go to Clearwell Caves but instead be donated to Clearwell Village Hall, supporting the local community while celebrating the Forest's rich industrial heritage.

A young model recreates the experience of Victorian child labour during the Forest of Dean Camera Club's historical photoshoot at Clearwell Caves.
CHILDLABOUR: A young model recreates the experience of Victorian child labour during the Forest of Dean Camera Club's historical photoshoot at Clearwell Caves. (Forest of Dean Camera Club)
A model portrays a weary miner taking a well-earned rest beside a loaded mine cart during the historical recreation at Clearwell Caves.
EXHAUSTION: A model portrays a weary miner taking a well-earned rest beside a loaded mine cart during the historical recreation at Clearwell Caves. (Forest of Dean Camera Club)
Two young models push a traditional mine cart as photographers recreated scenes inspired by the Forest of Dean's mining heritage.
HERITAGE: Two young models push a traditional mine cart as photographers recreated scenes inspired by the Forest of Dean's mining heritage. (Forest of Dean Camera Club)