A CENTRAL police hub for the Forest looks set to become reality - but the doors will remain shut at police stations in Lydney, Cinderford, Newent and Sedbury.

Police commissioner Martin Surl says it is too late to reverse a previous decision to close stations across the Dean.

However, he is forging ahead with his election pledge to create a hub for the Forest in Coleford, in order to maintain a visible police presence in the district.

"I made a commitment which I intend to kepp," said Mr Surl, as he launched a major research project this week to find out what Foresters expect from the Constabulary.

For more on this story, read The Forester.