Remembrance Weekend began on Friday morning at Frome Train Station when we presented a wreath from Frome Town Council to the Poppy Train on its way to Paddington Station. We were fortunate to be in London Paddington Station on Saturday 11 November and were able to spot the wreath amongst so many at the memorial on Platform one. (see Mayor of Frome Facebook).
Remembrance Sunday was such an emotional and important occasion for so many of the Frome community. Those who remembered loved ones and family, comrades and veterans and those who sadly did not return.
I had the honour of laying a wreath alongside the Royal British Legion and many organisations in Frome. This year we had two Town Councillors lay a wreath from our Twin Town of Murrhardt, Germany. I would like to pay tribute to and thank the Royal British Legion and all those that marched and took part in the service.
There were three points to note:
Firstly, a plaque was rededicated to include the name of Robert William Smith, who died serving in WW2 and members of his family came to honour him.
Secondly, this Rev. Colin Alsbury’s last Remembrance in Frome. On behalf of Frome Town Council, I would like to thank Colin for his immense contribution over the years in marking this significant event.
Thirdly, Sunday marked the last official duty of Mike Bishop, Frome Town Crier. Mike was Town Crier from Easter 2006 and has always proudly represented Frome in many competitions all over the UK and in Europe. I had the pleasure of presenting Mike with the Mayor’s Civic Award last week. Thank you Mike and Angie from Frome Town Council, and the very best for your retirement.
We are now only days away from the spectacular Lantern Parade and the Christmas Lights Switch-On on 24th November! This is a true Frome Community event that starts the Festive Season with such togetherness, fun and cheer!
There is great entertainment from Frome Town Band, The Rock Choir and Frome’s own Frukes. With Jamba Samba leading the parade and other acts plus a surprise from the balcony there is fun for all.
Visit the many local establishments for food and drink plus the Christmas Little Night Market running from 4pm to 9pm in the Market Yard hosted by the Frome Independent.
The Festive Season is also a time to think of many who are in need. Frome Town Council has produced details of Warm Spaces in Frome at https://www.frometowncouncil.gov.uk/warm-spaces-2023.
The FTC website provides information about those Warm Spaces, Food at Five (run by Fair Frome) and The Bridge cafe. Please support these vital and wonderful organisations in any way you can.
We also have the Healthy Homes Team (https://bit.ly/Fromehealthyhomes) who provide advice and guidance for people to improve their home conditions by ensuring that a home is warm and dry.
It is now more important than ever as the weather is getting colder, that we lookout for one another and support those in need. Take the time to check up on those who would be grateful for a chat and a cup of tea.
Please do not hesitate to contact me directly or any of my colleagues if we can help in any way.
Our community and our support for one another is our strength. This is Frome.”
