New Forest Steampunks, formerly the Hythe Area Time-travelling Steampunks, raise funds for New Forest Heritage Association at launch event

STEAMPUNK cosplayers got into gear for a stylish fundraising event in the Forest to celebrate the launch of their new group.

Described as a “delightful fusion of gears, corsets and camaraderie”, the New Forest Steampunks (NFS) held their launch event at The Stag Hotel in Lyndhurst.

For seven years, the NFS group operated under the moniker Hythe Area Time-travelling Steampunks (HATS) but has now expanded to cover the whole Forest.

The highlight of the afternoon launch event was a raffle, with all the proceeds handed over to the director of the New Forest Heritage Association Angus Harley.

An NFS spokesperson said: “Our community believes in giving back to its forested haven, and this act of charity exemplifies their commitment.

“With 184 members already on board, NFS is poised to become a vibrant hub for steampunk enthusiasts.”

Steampunk is an aesthetic vision of the future inspired by speculative science fiction storytelling from the Victorian era.

It often imagines a world in which the British Empire never fell and continued to advance technologically throughout and beyond the Industrial Revolution, leading to steam-powered and gear-driven spaceships, submarines and even prostheses.

The NFS spokesperson added: “NFS isn't just an acronym, it's a promise of adventure and fun.

“The group plans to attend numerous events across the New Forest, bringing their convivial spirit and splendidness to every gathering.”

To find out more about NFS search for New Forest Steampunks on Facebook or email newforeststeampunks@mail.com