LABOUR'S prospective Forest MP Steve Parry-Hearn says the district needs its own maternity ward / birthing unit. The maternity ward of the Dilke Hospital closed in 1988. Since then, few have been able to call themselves 'true Foresters', born within 'the hundred of St Briavels'. Mr Parry-Hearn told The Forester that the issue could become part of Labour's General Election campaign next May. He said: "I was at the Dilke Fete not long ago and I met a lot of people saying they were very proud to be Foresters. I realised that this is extremely important. "I've always thought the Forest of Dean is a unique place with its ancient rights and it's important we continue that heritage. It's something I would very much like to see."