Mansfield will join communities across Nottinghamshire on Friday 20 February to celebrate the second ever National Sherwood Forest Day with a special event
Mansfield will join communities across Nottinghamshire on Friday 20 February to celebrate the second ever National Sherwood Forest Day with a special event beside the well known Centre tree in Mansfield town centre, where a historic stone plaque already marks the town’s connection to Sherwood’s past. It was reputed to be the site that marked the centre of Sherwood Forest.
National Sherwood Forest Day has been created following a formal motion in Parliament in 2024 recognising the anniversary of the birth of Major Hayman Rooke in 1723. Major Rooke lived in Mansfield Woodhouse, where his home still stands, and he is buried at St Edmunds Church in Woodhouse. His work documenting the ancient woodland played a significant role in bringing international recognition to Sherwood Forest, and the famous Major Oak carries his name in tribute.
The Mayor of Mansfield and the Member of Parliament for Mansfield, Steve Yemm who signed off the parliamentary motion establishing the day, will take part in the ceremony which begins at 12 noon. The event will include the reading of an official proclamation and will coincide with similar civic gatherings across Nottinghamshire at locations that formed part of Historic Sherwood Forest. These include Nottingham Castle, Thoresby, Arnold, Blidworth, Woodhouse and other important heritage sites.
The creation of National Sherwood Forest Day acknowledges the forest as a national treasure of environmental, cultural and historical importance and highlights its fame around the world for its association with the enduring legend of Robin Hood. The day also gives thanks to the many public, private and voluntary organisations working to protect and promote Sherwood for future generations.
Executive Mayor of Mansfield District Council, Andy Abrahams said:
“This is a moment of real pride for Mansfield. Sherwood Forest is part of who we are and National Sherwood Forest Day celebrates both our heritage and the people who continue to care for this globally recognised landscape. It is a privilege for Mansfield to play a central part in the very first celebration. The Centre Tree in Mansfield Town Centre is a significant part of the rich history of Sherwood Forest and puts us literally the heart it all.”
The Member of Parliament for Mansfield, Steve Yemm added:
“It has been an honour to support the motion that created National Sherwood Forest Day alongside my fellow MPs in the East Midlands area. Major Hayman Rooke had a lasting impact on our understanding of Sherwood Forest, and it is fitting that Mansfield and Mansfield Woodhouse play such an important role in marking this anniversary. I look forward to standing with residents and partners to celebrate this important step in recognising our shared heritage.”
Members of the public are warmly invited to attend the Mansfield event on Friday 20th February from 11.45am at 65 Westgate, near St John Street, and join in this significant first celebration.
Find out more about the event on our Facebook Page.