A search for the next Deputy Gaveller in the Forest of Dean has so far failed to find a candidate to full the unique role.

Earlier this year Forestry England advertised the vacancy for atherare opportunity to become Deputy Gaveller but as yet this unique post, responsible for overseeing the mining and quarrying activity in the Forest of Dean, remains unfilled.

The modern role of the Deputy Gaveller, based in Coleford is to have oversight of the mining activity in the Forest of Dean, supporting the current generation of miners to comply with legislation and operate mines safely. A core responsibility is the administration of gales, these are legally defined areas of underground mineral rights that can be leased to individuals, known as 'galees,' for the purpose of mining.

These gales may contain coal, stone, iron ore, or ochre, and under current regulations, must be worked using traditional mining methods. The Office of Deputy Gaveller is an historic one, and as such has responsibility for the safe keeping of a wealth of archive material and mine plans, including the 1838 Register of Freeminers and Freequarrymen.

Will Carless, Head of Estates for Forestry England in the Forest of Dean said: ‘We were pleased with the initial interest in the vacancy, but sadly, we have not found the right person for this exciting and challenging role.’ ‘This is a role that blends history and tradition with very practical mining skills and modern regulations.’

The next Deputy Gaveller will have direct experience of mining and mine safety and is therefore likely to be a member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.

The position is part time taking up just 15 hours per week with an advertised salary of £39,135 - £42,133 (pro-rata) The vacancy closes on Thursday 21 August 2025

As the Deputy Gaveller you will maintain an active liaison with the individual mine owners and operators, the Freeminers Association, Forest of Dean Cave and Mines Rescue Group, and the Forest of Dean Caves Conservation and Access Group to foster effective and safe relationships to reduce risk of underground accidents and incidents and to support an effective emergency response – whilst recognising that Forestry England is not an emergency service, merely a responsible landowner.

You will attend HM Verderers Court each quarter to report on matters pertaining to the mineral interests within the Forest.

As custodians of most of the land within the Forest of Dean, Forestry England holds the historical responsibility of administering and monitoring all mining within the Hundred of St Briavels via the Deputy Gaveller. The role also extends to oversight of the quarrying activity on land directly managed by Forestry England within the Dean.

The Deputy Gaveller has a vast and well-maintained archive of historical documents and plans upon which to rely, and the upkeep of those records is part of the Deputy Gaveller’s remit.

Due to restrictions within the Dean Forest Mines Act, the holder of the post of Deputy Gaveller cannot be a registered Freeminer.