Cinderford Town Council recognises the importance of commemorative plaques in helping visitors and residents identify with the history of the town and aims to promote the recognition and awareness of people, places and events which have been of lasting significance in the life of Cinderford or more widely.

  • A Blue Plaque is a permanent sign installed in a public place to commemorate a link between that location and a nationally famous person or event.
  • A Green Plaque is very similar but it commemorates a link between that location and a person famous within the Forest (but not nationally well known).

There are currently three blue plaques and one green plaque in Cinderford:

https://www.forestersforest.uk/plaque/35/timothy-mountjoy-1824-1896

Dr ML Bangara (1881-1927) – Green and Blue Plaque Scheme – Foresters’ Forest – Our Forest, Our Community, The Foresters’ Forest

Dame Muriel Powell (1914-1978) – Green and Blue Plaque Scheme – Foresters’ Forest – Our Forest, Our Community, The Foresters’ Forest

A green circular plaque honoring Timothy Mountjoy (1824–1896), labeled as a pioneer of a trade union for miners, with Foresters’ Forest and Heritage Fund logos displayed.
Two plaques on a stone wall commemorate Dame Muriel Powell, a British nurse. The blue plaque notes she lived near Cinderford, and the black plaque honors her career and inspiration to others as a matron in London.
A green commemorative plaque on a stone wall honors Dr. M.L. Bangara (1881-1927), described as a well-loved community doctor who lived and worked in Cinderford.

Details of the plaque unveilings can be found at https://www.forestersforest.uk/news/article/62/blue-green-plaques-now-on-display

EMF –

A blue plaque In recognition of Unbelievable Achievements honouring cult 90s band, EMF, is located at the Cinderford Clock Tower.
EMF, from Cinderford, is best known for its hit single Unbelievable, which sold millions of copies worldwide.

Four Cinderford lads – James Atkin, Mark Decloedt, Zac Foley and Derry Brownson were joined by renowned Cheltenham based guitarist, Ian Dench, to form a Cinderford band that would enjoy worldwide success . Interest in the band grew quickly, not just from locals, but also the wider music industry. Following a gig at The Bilson in lower Cinderford they were signed by EMI.

EMF ‘blown away’ by blue plaque approval in Cinderford – BBC News
EMF: 90s heroes ‘overwhelmed’ by hometown blue plaque – BBC News

Cinderford Town Council encourages suggestions from members of the public for suitable plaques. A decision to install a blue plaque will be made by the Town Council following a written request.

The Council retains ownership of all installed plaques

Two smiling men in blue clothing unveil a circular commemorative plaque mounted on a stone wall. One man holds up a black cloth, and both appear happy and celebratory.

We would be delighted to hear from residents about who or where from the Town’s past should be recognised by the installation of a blue and green plaque.