I am really proud of Frome. I got back from my holiday just in time to join the general election hustings at the Cheese & Grain. The hall was full and all seven candidates for Frome and East Somerset in attendance, answering questions on a range of topics. Most importantly, everyone was civilised and respected each other’s right to hold differing points of view. I have to congratulate my colleague Cllr Fiona Barrows for facilitating such a constructive discussion. Several people have told me that it really helped them decide how to vote on 4th July. Thanks is also due to the team at the Cheese and Grain and to Rupert, Alan and the brilliant Frome FM team, who organised the hustings livestream and enabled even more people to watch the event.
In the same week as the election, I attended the Principal’s Awards Ceremony at Frome College, and the graduation event for Critchill School. It’s great to hear how hard many of our young people are working, at both their academic studies and at various extracurricular projects; and so many stories of how they are helping each other to be their best. As I said at the time, Frome Town Council has a responsibility to make Frome a town that they deserve, and to work with inspirational young people like these in doing it.
Then on to an open day at Withywood, just behind Berkley First School, where the generosity of a local landowner has allowed Phaedra Politis and her team to create a beautiful and productive space that supports young people and adults with horticultural therapy.
I was delighted to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Songs for the Memory on 9th July. This brilliant group offers weekly music sessions at Frome Masonic Hall for people affected by dementia and memory problems and their carers. Making music and singing together is a great way to boost confidence and wellbeing and we wish them many more years of bringing a little light and joy to people’s day.
Obviously, the other huge event that I have to mention is the Frome Festival. From pub theatre on the Friday evening, through the amazing food and music of the Food Feast, via kids’ theatre, first-rate comedy and opera and Hidden Gardens, it’s been a delight from start to finish.
As I said, I am really proud of Frome!
