In my book Forest of Dean is West Midlands!
By all means find a local Club and join.
You will find like mined individuals, some of whom will happily advise, and / or help get you set up and going.
Although, perhaps, a bit far, my contacts with Hereford Society have always been good and welcoming..
They are next door to the WaterWorks Museum on Broomy Hill.
(Was born and grew up in Hereford )
Howard