MEMORIES, stories and photographs of one of the oldest businesses on Exmoor, Allerford Forge, are being sought by the National Trust.

Thanks to a generous donation from the West Somerset National Trust Association, a project is currently underway working with the tenants at Allerford Forge to explain its history through a new visitor information board.

The forge, next door to the Allerford Museum, is at the heart of the Holnicote Estate which is one of the largest to be donated to the National Trust.

The estate is home to more than 200 tenants including farms, cottages and commercial businesses, with Allerford Forge being one of the oldest businesses on the estate.

Kieren Roberts, who runs the family business from Allerford Forge, said: "The forge itself dates back to the 17th century and has been an important part of many people's lives in West Somerset for centuries.

"Some families have been in the area for generations and there is bound to be some really interesting connections, stories and pictures out there. We want to hear all about it."

Tamsin Mosse, visitor services manager, said the forge attracts a lot of interest from people walking by.

"It's a working forge and, understandably, visitors are curious to find out more. We want to address that by creating an eye catching display telling the story of the forge from its origins to the present day," she said.

Anyone able to help with the project or who has images of the forge should contact Tamsin Mosse at Holnicote Estate Yard, Selworthy, Minehead, TA24 8TJ or tamsin.mosse@ nationaltrust.org.uk

Pictured is Joe Davis shoeing a horse at the forge in about 1940.

Photo: National Trust