March has seen lots more rain, but with some very chilly days. Walks around Frome are so beautiful, with wonderful displays of daffodils, spring flowers and trees in blossom. It is so uplifting to have warmer days and more daylight. February was very much a family month for me with three birthdays: my elder daughter, my wife Karin and my mother’s 90th. Precious times with loved ones. I hope you are all able to spend time with your family.
Mayoral duties have been going at a pace. Judging the Rotary Club Schools Speaking Competition was so impressive and highlighted how very aware young people are of social issues and the world around them.
A rainy afternoon did not diminish the number of people who turned out to show unity with the Ukrainian community in Frome to mark the second year of the start of the conflict.
I was delighted to cut the ribbon for the opening of the newly refurbished George Hotel: my first gig with our new town crier, Martin. We wish all the staff at The George every success. On 9th March, Frome Busks again showcased the talented young people in our community and was enjoyed and appreciated by all.
Coming soon is Frome’s annual Kindness Festival, with contributions from the many people and organisations who apply kindness to life in Frome, and some exciting guests, such as film director Ken Loach and one of the founders of the extraordinary Restorative Justice Movement, Nigel Whiskin. Do browse the many events on offer on The Good Heart’s website and get involved – there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget to join FTC at a litter pick on Thursday 21st March as part of ‘Kindness to the Planet’ day and make our lovely town centre look its best or make a deposit at the Kindness Bank in the old HSBC building by pledging support for a local charity or sharing a story of kindness (you can also have a coffee and book tickets for festival events.)
We have so much to look forward to and hopefully many of you will be involved in some way. We can all support the amazing people and organisations that do so much within and for our community. This is Frome.
Take time to check on your friends and neighbours and spend time with them when you can. A chat and a cup of tea can have such a positive impact for many people.
As always, do not hesitate to contact me or any of my colleagues if we can help in any way. Take care.
