So, we moved. And, as many a friend and acquaintance reminded me, moving house is one of the most stressful things you’ll ever do. Though the new pad is very much a work in progress, it is also already very much home. I look forward to the shadows on the wall in the evening, the dappled light coming through the neighbour’s beech tree in the morning, and the demise of the mountain of boxes full of things we probably don’t need, with nowhere to go.
As always with any new project, I begin with a maximalist and excessively rose-tinted viewpoint; I will do ALL the things and life will be vastly improved. We have a larger garden, thus I will have chickens, a bountiful veg patch and enough home-grown blackcurrants to keep me in home-made cassis for years to come. My imaginary flower bed, prolific with blooms, will attract all the insects, our imaginary wildlife pond will give newts a place to call home, and I and the kids will spend many a jolly hour gazing at tadpoles and dragonfly nymphs (though, unlike
Still far too busy, far too chaotic and much too over-optimistic about my own abilities to get things done.
their later incarnation, they are utterly repulsive to behold). Whilst I bake bread and construct a complex, nutritionally balanced meal, my children will partake in wholesome activities, like climbing trees, catching crickets or drawing at the table. I will read on the sofa, late into the evening, the TV remote a now unimportant and rather neglected tool. Long walks and long baths, yes, the move will create time for me to have me-time..
Of course, whilst all big life changes can feel like a catalyst for growth and an opportunity to redesign your life, the reality is that, in this new house, I am still the old me. Still far too busy, far too chaotic and much too overoptimistic about my own abilities to get things done. So, as I sit in a room, insulated by boxes and underserved by storage, or make myself a cuppa in possibly the ugliest 80’s kitchen still in action, or shower in a bathroom with what I am pretty sure are asbestos tiles, I am determined to enjoy the process, live more in the moment and appreciate the small things that make me lucky to be alive.
5 Create
The Round Tower, Black Swan Arts 14th - 29th June | Preview: 13th June, 6–8pm
5 Create brings together five Frome-based artists whose diverse practices explore memory, imagination, landscape, and the human experience — each with a distinct voice and
GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE – GROW WILD, GROW BEAUTIFUL
Vallis Farm, 28th June, 9am–1pm, £50
Ready to turn your garden into a buzzing, blooming haven for wildlife – without sacrificing style or splashing the cash? Gardening for Wildlife at Vallis Farm is just the ticket. This half-day workshop will show you how to welcome in the birds, bees and butterflies, while gently waving goodbye to chemical sprays and pricey plant trends. The session includes a mini-tour of beautiful Vallis Farm, refreshments, and handy course notes to take home. Perfect for anyone with a window box or a wild patch – and a heart for the natural world.
medium. Hilary Kay is a textile artist working with felt-making, embroidery, and collage. Drawing inspiration from nature, she combines traditional and experimental techniques like water-soluble fabric and block printing to create richly textured work. Lizbeth Spurgeon paints imagined and remembered landscapes, often shaped by the ever-changing sky. Working in oils on canvas, wood block, and recycled materials, her pieces invite personal interpretation and emotional connection. Suzanne Woodward uses water-based mixed media on recycled paper to explore personal narratives rooted in memory and lived experience. Liv O’Hanlon sculpts clay figures that reflect on human relationships. Her work occasionally leans into abstraction, maintaining a focus on emotional resonance. Viv Meadows combines collage, drawing, and paint to create layered, textural pieces full of colour, irony, and insight. A later-life graduate of Fine Art, her practice explores female perspectives and social commentary. This thoughtful and varied show promises a rich, reflective experience for visitors.
vallisfarm.co.uk/accommodation
BROADWAY COMMUNITY GARDENS: A POCKET OF HAPPINESS IN BLOOM
Drop-in sessions: Wed 12–2pm, Fri 10–12pm Sun 10–12.30pm
Got a spare 20 minutes and a soft spot for green spaces? Broadway Community Gardens is calling! This tucked-away treasure between 19 and 21 Oakfield Road is always looking for friendly faces to help it grow. Open to all, Broadway Community Gardens offer a friendly place to sit, meet new friends and learn about gardening. Whether you’ve got two hours or just a few minutes, every helping hand makes a BIG difference. No experience needed – just bring your curiosity, your love of nature, and maybe a trowel (or not – they’ve got spares!).
and imaginative 3D pieces – all created by artists who live in and around Frome. Pop in, soak up the inspiration, and support the artists who help make Frome such a creative place to call home.
The Long Gallery, Black Swan Arts 31st May – 15th June
Frome Art Society is back with its much-loved annual exhibition – and it’s bursting with colour, creativity and local talent. This annual showcase brings together a vibrant mix of work from over 170 members, from seasoned professionals to firsttime exhibitors. Expect everything from bold oils and delicate watercolours to striking drawings
At A Tribe Called West, we help planet-positive brands grow through strategic, fearless design.
JONO EKIN PALESTINE FUNDRAISER: SHANTY AND ME
Rook Lane Chapel, 6th July, 7.30pm
Hop on for an unforgettable ride as cameraman Jono Ekin shares his remarkable road trip on a vintage 1965 Royal Enfield motorcycle – lovingly nicknamed “Shanty” – in a special film screening at Rook Lane. Back in 1999, Jono revved out of India and set his sights westward, riding solo through Pakistan, Iran, Turkey and into Europe. Armed with a camera and a sense of adventure, he captured unique experiences and even places that no longer exist today, like Bam in Iran. The result? An eye-opening, often hilarious video
NEW OLD FRIENDS PRESENT PICK & MIX: A VARIETY NIGHT
Merlin Theatre, 28th June, 7.30pm
Frome’s own comedy theatre duo New Old Friends (behind the hit Crimes… series) bring their trademark fun to a brand new variety night packed with stand-up, music, dance, magic — and a gameshow twist! Hosted by husband-and-wife team Feargus Woods Dunlop and Heather Westwell, Pick & Mix is a feel-good throwback to classic Saturday night entertainment. Expect laughs, real prizes, and an energetic, audience-led vibe. Best known for their national touring comedy theatre, New Old Friends have remixed their work to focus on bringing quality entertainment to their hometown of Frome and their first offering is Pick & Mix. If you have ever pined for
diary that made it to SKY TV’s Destination Adventure. Tickets are £10, and here’s the best part: every penny goes directly to Medicine Aid for Palestinians, supporting urgent medical relief efforts.
the classic Saturday night TV of yesteryear, then this is the event for you. Instead of Brucey, your master of ceremonies will be Fearg, a hilarious host who will entertain and excite the entire Merlin audience.
Jeremy Vine: Murder on Line One
Join us for a sparkling evening in conversation with BBC Broadcaster and author Jeremy Vine, as he introduces his South-West set murder mystery
Merlin Theatre Saturday 21st June
SADDLE GOOSE
UP UPCOMING TASTINGS AND EVVENTS EVERY SATURDA 2PM WINE TASTING SAT 18TH JU JUNE BARREL TASTING SAT 5TH JU FROME FESTIVVA WINEMAKER EXPERIENCE WED 9TH JU FROME FESTIVVAL PIZZA AND WINE BOOK ONLINE AT SADDLEG
REPEATS WEEKLY
REPEATS WEEKLY
REPEATS EVERY OTHER WEEK
7-8:30PM IMPROV JAM RECONNECT WITH PLAY AND SILLINESS AT OUR WEEKLY IMPROVISED THEATRE SESSIONS. 10AM - 11:30AM TODDLER TAKEOVER EXPECT SILLINESS, BUBBLES, DANCING, CHASING, SPINNING, SENSORY PLAY AND ROCKET RIDES. OUR MORNINGS OFTEN TURN INTO A BIT OF A PARTY! 7-8:30PM DUNGEON CRAWLERS FROM EXPERT TO BEGINNER COME AND PLAY OUR TABLE TOP GAMES OR BRING TO SHARE. 8-10PM ARCADE AFTER HOURS
JEALOUS OF OUR KIDS RETRO GAME NIGHT? NO NEED! HERE IS ONE FOR ALL OF YOU GROWN UPS
REPEATS MONTHLY
FROME FESTIVAL 2025: 280 EVENTS TO LIGHT UP THE TOWN
4th–13th July
Get ready for the biggest Frome Festival yet, as the town bursts into life this summer with a recordbreaking 280 events taking place between 4th and 13th July. With its most ambitious programme to date, this much-loved celebration of music, comedy, arts and community spirit will bring something special to every corner of Frome.
The music line-up is packed with standout names, including Guy Chambers, the Ronnie Scott’s AllStars, Miki Berenyi Trio, Tom Moth (of Florence + The Machine), Gary Stringer (Reef), Rokia Koné, and the explosive Hackney Colliery Band.
Comedy fans are in for a treat too, with headline performances from Lou Sanders, Andy Zaltzman, and returning favourites Pop-Up Comedy and Amy Webber.
Historian Professor Kate Williams headlines this year’s Bob Morris Lecture, delving into Britain’s rich past, while the family-friendly programme features free children’s theatre funded by Frome Town Council – including The Elves and the Shoemaker, Bin Rat, and the joyful Teabreak.
New venues and fresh events also join the mix, from Five Yard’s live sets to DJ nights at The Tunnels, food and wine events at Rye Bakery and Saddle Goose Winery on Station Approach, and even ‘Karenoke’ –comedy karaoke with a ‘Karen’ twist.
Festival favourites return too: Hidden Gardens, the Open Art Trail, and the buzzing Food Feast with live music from Nothing Rhymes With Orange, Buffalo Gals, and Kaleida Wild.
This year’s theme celebrates Frome’s historic textile industry, woven through the programme in tribute to the town’s creative and industrial past. Pick up a free printed programme from the Cheese & Grain and other local spots, or view the full lineup and book tickets online at fromefestival.co.uk
The Food Feast, Open Art Trail Exhibitions, walks, talks Children’s & so much more
GARY STRINGER (REEF)
ROKIA KONé
Nunney Fayre Day
26th July, 10am - 5pm
The ever popular Nunney Fayre Day celebrates the historic village of Nunney, offering a fun day out for all the family.
You’ll find a wide variety of stalls, the best of local produce, delicious food, crafts and bric-a-brac, donkey rides, a dog show, performers and live music, and a packed programme of activities for children in and around the village.
Organisers rely on local people to help put on this historic event, which is run entirely by volunteers. If you can offer a few hours of your time to volunteer, or would like to take part as a stallholder, then get in touch via nunneyfayrenca@gmail.com.
FORAGING AND AYURVEDA – ANCIENT WISDOM IN THE SOMERSET WILDS
The Old Cider House, Batcombe, near Frome, workshops: 6th June, 29th June, 14th Sept, 5th Oct
Tucked away in a charming old cider house just outside Frome, you’ll find something a little unexpected – a slice of ancient Indian wellness, Somersetstyle. Ayurveda (Yoga’s wise, plantloving sister science) is the world’s oldest healthcare system with a focus on balance, nourishment, and natural healing.
Local practitioner and Hatha yoga teacher Jo Webber brings over 15 years of experience to her Batcombe clinic, offering health consultations with tongue and pulse reading and soul-soothing warm oil massages.
NUNNEY F A Y R E D A Y
26 JULY 25
10am -5pm
FREE ENTRY
Jo also runs seasonal foraging and wildcrafting workshops. You can join Jo this June for a magical day outdoors, learning to identify local plants, exploring their folklore and medicinal uses, and crafting your own delicious herbal treats to take home.
Stalls, live music, food & drink, kids Zone, and more!
Nunney Community Association Presents:
EVENTS AT ROOK LANE CHAPEL
Tickets via rooklane.org or fromefesival.co.uk
4 JULY | DOORS 7PM CONCERT 7.30PM
AN EVENING WITH GUY CHAMBERS TICKETS £23.50
5 JULY | DOORS 7PM CONCERT 7.30PM THE BERT JANSCH FOUNDATION PRESENTS: CHRIS BRAIN (GUITARIST) TICKETS £15, £13.50 CONCESSION
6 JULY | 1PM - 5PM DAYTIME RAVING RASCALS
6 JULY | DOORS 7.30PM FILM 8PM EVENING JONO EKIN FUND RAISING FILM: “SHANTY AND ME” TICKETS £13 Raising funds for Palestine.
7 JULY | 6PM TO 9PM
ECO-ART EXHIBITION & INSPIRING FILMS FROM THE FROME INTERNATIONAL CLIMATE FILM FESTIVAL 2025. TICKETS £5
9 JULY | DOORS 7PM CURTAINS UP 7.30PM AMY WEBBER – WANNABE (COMEDY) TICKETS £12 (CON £6). 16+.
“TRIGGER WARNING - BRIEF REFERENCE TO SEXUAL ASSAULT”
10 JULY | DOORS 7.30PM CONCERT 8PM
TOM MOTH ~ HARP & ELECTRONICS
TICKETS £18
11 JULY | DOORS 7.30PM CONCERT 8PM
REEM KELANI IN CONCERT
TICKETS £16
12 JULY
SOUND BATH AND CACAO CEREMONY 2PM TO 4PM | TICKETS £26
WHY PRESENTS: BUCK’S QUIZ BEACH PARTY SPECIAL DOORS 7PM | TICKETS £30 TEAMS OF 6
13 JULY | DOORS 7PM CONCERT 7.30PM
ROKIA KONE CONCERT TICKETS £20
FOLK ART & FAIRYTALES
THE MAGICAL WORLD OF CORINNA SARGOOD
Dore & Rees, Frome, 27th June
Step into the world of Corinna Sargood and you’ll find yourself somewhere between a Grimm’s fairytale, a Mexican fiesta, and a Bohemian artist’s sketchbook. A multi-disciplinary artist with a rare gift for storytelling in every form — from lino prints to puppetry, embroidery to illustration — Corinna’s work bursts with colour, humour, myth, and magic.
This summer, Dore & Rees in Frome will unveil a unique auction: Folk Art & Fairytales – The Magical World of Corinna Sargood. Featuring over 100 lots, the sale brings together her vibrant Mexican folk-art collection, pieces from her fantastically adorned Frome home, original artworks, and signed editions of Angela Carter’s books.
A Life in Colour
Corinna’s career defies categorisation. Illustrator, printmaker, painter, animator, puppeteer and embroiderer. Her creative journey has taken her from the studios of 1970s Bristol to the heart of the Mexican jungle, with many stops in between.
At 50, she received a deeply personal commission: to illustrate her dear friend Angela Carter’s Second Virago Book of Fairy Tales. Carter — who died shortly after at the age of 51 — had one request: “Do Mexico for me.” Corinna did just that. She travelled extensively through the country, eventually making a home in Las Brujas (‘The Witches’) — a village far friendlier than the name suggests, bullet holes notwithstanding. There she immersed herself in local culture, celebrations, and crafts, her work becoming infused with Mexican folklore, humour, and surrealism.
Her Mexican years live on in her embroidered automata, animated dioramas, and her vividly illustrated travel diary Village in the Valley, a treasure trove of cultural, botanical, and culinary insights.
Tales from the Road
Corinna’s talent for observation, and for turning travel into art, surfaced early. In her twenties, time spent in Italy led to the charming sketches that later illustrated Patience Gray’s cult classic Honey from a Weed, a cookery memoir that remains in print nearly 40 years later.
Her written and illustrated travelogues — Journey to the Jungle (1988) and Village in the Valley (2021) — offer a glimpse into a curious, fearless spirit. The first recounts a South American adventure with her daughter, Rosy, from floating down the Amazon to dining on alpaca in Peru and chewing coca leaves to combat altitude sickness. The second charts her deepening love affair with Mexico and revisits her years in Italy, weaving together food, art, festivals, and the joy of cross-cultural exchange.
From Bristol to Frome
In the 1970s, Corinna was part of the original Spike Island Art Collective in Bristol, long before it became the renowned centre for contemporary art it is today. It was during this era that she and Angela Carter would meet at the zoo for lunch. Corinna and her then-husband restored a narrowboat and launched The Bristol Packet — a harbour tour still going strong.
Eventually, she settled in Frome, where for 35 years she lived and worked in a house marked only by a camel sign swinging above the door. Inside, her home served not just as a residence but as a living, breathing work of art.
“We are only just catching up to the world Corinna has been living in — one of folklore, feminism and fierce imagination.”
Creating at Any Age
Now in her 80s and living in a care home, Corinna continues to create with undimmed energy. Her room — festooned with large embroidered Mexican automata and hand-made dioramas — defies every stereotype about care homes. Far from winding down, she has more time and space than ever to tackle her long list of creative projects. Her most recent publication, Tales from Rossetti House, is a joyful reflection of her ongoing work: whimsical, visual, and wonderfully alive. And her embroidery? Still prolific, detailed, and dazzling.
A Sale Like No Other
The upcoming sale at Dore & Rees is no ordinary auction. It’s a celebration of a life lived creatively, fearlessly, and with great generosity of spirit. Alongside original lino prints, paintings, and automata, the auction will feature first edition Angela Carter books (some signed), and a significant portion of Corinna’s Mexican folk art collection — pieces full of humour, magic, and folk wisdom.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to step inside the imaginative world of Corinna Sargood — and perhaps take a little piece of it home.
DORE & REES – FROME’S HISTORIC AUCTION HOUSE
A cornerstone of Frome since 1868, Dore & Rees has long been known as the town’s very own Aladdin’s cave — a place where everything from fine antiques to quirky collectables finds their moment under the hammer. Many locals will remember the twice-monthly auctions led by Mark Rees from 1984 onwards with great fondness. In 2021, Mark passed the baton to Lee Young, well-known for his appearances on the Antiques Roadshow and a long-time local himself. Under Lee’s direction, Dore & Rees has continued to grow, now offering specialist sales across interiors, jewellery, silver, Asian art, motorcycles, paintings, rare antiques and more. Whether you’re buying or selling, browsing or bidding, Dore & Rees is your go-to local resource for all things curious, beautiful, and collectable. Pop in for a cuppa and discover what treasures await! View lots and register to bid at doreandrees.com
BIG LAUGHS AND BOUTIQUE VIBES
RODE COMEDY FESTIVAL
Back for its sixth year, Rode Comedy Festival is set to bring world-class comedy to the Somerset countryside — all under canvas, with a laid-back vibe and seriously good food and drink.
Created by husband-and-wife team Amelia and Jarred Christmas (of Pop-Up Comedy), in partnership with Pitch Perfect Camping, Rode has earned a reputation as one of the UK’s most exciting boutique comedy festivals.
Think: big names, intimate crowds, and a joyful, festival-meets-front-room atmosphere.
The 2025 line-up is bursting with comedy royalty, including Russell Howard, Bridget Christie, Sara Pascoe, Jason Manford, Russell Kane, Troy Hawke,
and many more. Every show is hosted by the electric Jarred Christmas, with beatboxer Hobbit adding a fresh twist and high-energy flair.
Tickets are flying fast — many shows are already sold out, with limited availability remaining and a waiting list open for late releases.
And it’s not just for the grown-ups: Saturday 30 August is Family Festival Day, headlined by CBeebies star Andy Day, bringing fun for kids and parents alike.
Whether you’re a comedy aficionado or just fancy a local laugh, Rode 2025 is a must.
27th – 31st August | Rode, near Frome Book now: rodecomedyfestival.com
BORN ADVENTURERS FESTIVAL
WILD PLAY, FAMILY JOY AND LOCAL MAGIC
This summer, a new kind of family festival is coming to the countryside just ten minutes from Frome. created by local parents Phil and Jess, for families, Born Adventurers is packed with the kind of fun kids love - scavenger hunts, rocket launches, live-action quests, creative workshops, forest school, water slides, and family discos under the stars. But it’s also designed with grown-ups in mind with live music, woodland yoga, cocktail bar, sauna, and flushing toilets.
With space to roam, no crowds, and a real sense of community, Born Adventurers is the perfect way to start the summer holidays. And as a not-forprofit, every ticket helps support brilliant local charities like Frome Birth Talk, Purple Elephant and more.
Festival highlights include:
The Outpost – A forest hub for live-action games and wild science quests
The Hideaway – A peaceful woodland retreat with saunas and sound baths
Rebel Roots A soulful music and drinks space Wildwood Zipwires, climbing and more with WOLT
The Den & Burrow A cosy play space for U5s
Book at www.bornadventurers.co.uk
Thoulstone Park, near Frome, 25th – 27th July, family of four from £240, locals discount
SANDERS LANDSCAPES
CRAFTING BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPES FOR LIFE
In the heart of Frome’s creative landscape scene, Sanders Landscapes have been quietly building a reputation for delivering some of the area’s most thoughtfully designed and beautifully crafted outdoor spaces. Founded in 2020 by husband-and-wife team Lawrence and Frances Sanders, the business blends artistic flair, skilled craftsmanship and a strong commitment to sustainability.
“We believe in the power of a garden to improve health, connection and wellbeing,” says Lawrence. “Our aim is always to create a space that’s not only beautiful but that feels alive, functional and inspiring to its owners. We have a passion for creating magical spaces that maintain and preserve the intricate details already there. We love to reuse materials, fusing the old and the new, and introduce carefully selected high-quality natural materials to complement the surroundings. Our whole philosophy is about harmony and wellbeing.”
It’s this philosophy that underpins every project Sanders Landscapes takes on. Their work ranges from complete design-and-build services to collaborations with landscape designers, where they bring expert construction and fine detailing to life. Whether it’s a reclaimed brick patio, an elegant pergola, or an entire garden transformation, each build is completed with care, precision and a touch of creativity.
Rooted in Respect for What’s Already There
One of the hallmarks of Sanders’ approach is sensitivity to the existing landscape. Rather than starting from scratch, the team takes time to understand what’s already working in a space — preserving mature trees, highlighting architectural features, and blending in natural materials to create something fresh yet rooted.
“We love the challenge of fusing the old with the new,” says Frances. “It might be reusing stone, working with the shape of the land, or designing around existing planting. We want every garden to feel like it belongs — in harmony with both the home and the environment.”
And it’s not just about the aesthetics. Recently, the team built a tunnel in a dry stone wall, creating a safe hedgehog highway so our spiny friends can move safely between gardens.
This sustainable, local-first ethos also shapes their supply chain. Sanders Landscapes works closely with local artisans, timber yards, metal fabricators, and plant nurseries to source the highest-quality materials. Lawrence has lived here his entire life, and Frances for 13 years. They feel embedded in the local community and grateful for their strong network of trusted subcontractors who ensure a smooth, collaborative build from start to finish.
“We’re big believers in building gardens that last — both structurally and emotionally,”
Craftsmanship That Speaks for Itself
The Sanders team is made up of experienced landscapers, designers and skilled labourers — a group known not only for their technical ability but also for their professionalism and warmth on site.
“We’re often told we’re a pleasure to have around, which is lovely to hear,” says Lawrence. “We know we’re working in people’s homes and private spaces, and we take that responsibility seriously — being tidy, respectful, and making the whole experience as enjoyable as possible.” From water features to decking, paving, brickwork, and garden structures, the portfolio showcases a wide range of techniques and styles — all executed with a trademark attention to detail. Ongoing training and up-to-date building practices mean every project is robust, futureproofed, and built to last.
Gardens with Heart
For the Sanders team, creating a garden is about more than ticking boxes — it’s about forging lasting spaces that bring joy and ease to everyday life.
Recent clients agree:
“Lawrence and his team were an absolute pleasure to work with — polite and creative. Most importantly, the work they did has completely transformed how we use the space. They highlighted features we loved and found elegant solutions to the quirks of our period garden. Our garden is now our favourite space, and we would enthusiastically recommend them! ”
Geraldine, Frome
“An amazing team of lovely people who take huge pride in every detail. They truly do forge creativity and craftmanship with an incredible “if you’re going to do it, do it right” attitude. I can’t recommend them enough.”
Caroline, Mells
What sets Sanders Landscapes apart is not just the quality of their work, but the ethos behind it. “We’re big believers in building gardens that last — both structurally and emotionally,” says Frances. “It’s about creating spaces where people want to spend time, connect with nature, and just breathe a little more easily.” Whether it’s a peaceful courtyard garden, a family space full of adventure, or a sensitive transformation of a heritage site, Sanders Landscapes approaches each build with care, creativity, and an eye for the unique.
Based in Frome sanderslandscapes.co.uk enquiries@sanderslandscapes.co.uk @sanders_landscapes
Ready to gently explore the parts of yourself that often stay in the shadows? The Alchemy of Shadow & Breath is a day-long retreat designed to help you reconnect with your inner world through powerful, yet nurturing, practices.
Led by two experienced and compassionate facilitators — Beth Friedeberg, a Core Process Psychotherapist, and Beth Bauer, a breathworker in her final stages of psychotherapy training — this workshop combines shadow work, somatic practices, and Conscious Connected Breathwork to support deep release, integration, and clarity. You’ll be held in a safe and intimate space as you explore subconscious patterns, regulate your nervous system, and create room for authentic reconnection. It’s a chance to drop into stillness, be witnessed, and emerge feeling lighter and more aligned.
The Bennett Centre, Frome, 14th June, 10am–5pm, £65–£85 (sliding scale). Spaces are limited for this immersive day of self-discovery. Book your place and find out more: dandelion.events/e/w1v69
Alchemy of Shadow & Breath
A One Day Retreat
The Bennet Centre, Saturday 14 June, 10am-5pm th
A transformative day of shadow work and breathwork held by two psychotherapists trained in mind, body and spirit-based modalities. Uncover and integrate hidden aspects of yourself through guided practices, a conscious-connected breathwork journey, and somatic awareness. Create space for deep release, clarity and self-empowerment.
The retreat is for you if you are ready to:
Let go of old emotional weight and limiting beliefs
Find more clarity, wholeness and inner peace
Connect with yourself on a deeper level
Step into a more authentic and empowered version of yourself
To find out more and book: www.beth-bauer.co.uk/events https://dandelion.events/e/w1v69
MIKE CHECK
THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC
Tune in on Frome.fm or listen anytime on Mixcloud
Frome FM is a treasure trove of local voices, stories and sounds — and few hosts cover more ground than Mike Grenville. With three distinctive shows, Mike offers something for music lovers, green thinkers, and armchair travellers alike.
Dead Good Musicians
Every week, Mike celebrates the music and stories of artists we’ve recently lost — from jazz legends to folk heroes and pop icons. It’s a soulful, genre-hopping tribute to those who shaped the soundtrack of our lives.
Sustainable Frome
This monthly show spotlights local people making a difference for the planet. Expect inspiring conversations about green living, community projects, and practical ways to help Frome thrive sustainably.
Travels and Travellers
Grab your backpack (or just a cuppa) and join Mike for stories from the road — from epic overland journeys to unexpected local adventures. Have your own travel tale to share? He’s always looking for new guests!
All shows are broadcast on air and available anytime on Mixcloud – just head to the Programmes page at Frome.fm. Tune in and discover the world - past, present, and future - through the sounds of Frome.fm.
Frome 01373 452225
Melksham 01225 617779
Trowbridge 01225 754021
Warminster 01985 213350
Westbury 01373 301448
FROME PRIDE 2025
SMALL TOWN, BIG HEART
What began as a ten-person pub meet-up has grown into a joyful, month-long celebration of Frome’s LGBTQIA+ community. Frome Pride is back this June with a packed Pride Season of events — and it’s all run by the community, for the community.
After the now-legendary “UK’s Shortest Pride” in 2022 (a 40-minute slot on the Frome Independent stage), the organisers expanded to a full June programme last year, and 2025 looks set to be just as vibrant. Expect socials, workshops, live performances, talks, and more, all championing inclusivity, creativity, and connection.
Monthly meet-ups at Flow Bar and regular LGBTQIA+ walks continue to keep the community thriving year-round. And with support from local
venues, businesses and residents, Pride in Frome has become a truly town-wide celebration.
Frome Pride is entirely volunteer-run and donation-funded, with every penny going toward performances, accessibility, and safety. Funds are managed transparently via OpenCollective — so you can see exactly how your support helps.
Want to be part of it?
• Check out events at fromepride.org
• Donate via OpenCollective
• Come along to the next social (4th Friday, FlowBar) or join a walk
Frome Pride 2025 is about love, community, and showing up for one another — in true Frome style.
FROME TENNIS CLUB
SERVING UP A SUMMER OF FUN
For more than a century, Frome Tennis Club has been a hidden gem in the lush centre of Victoria Park. However, this summer it is proudly stepping into the spotlight with a vast array of offerings to all ages and abilities.
So, what’s new and exciting?
Launching on 7th June and continuing every first Saturday of the month, there will be free Family Community Tennis Sessions, perfect as a pitstop after a market day mooch around town. Inside the brand-new Pavilion members can enjoy a stylish indoor space with table tennis, a pool table, TV lounge, and modern changing rooms with showers. It’s the perfect place to unwind post-match.
Have you tried Pickleball yet? Frome Tennis Club now has two outdoor floodlit courts for this rapidly expanding, all-ages sport, following a very successful launch last autumn. Working closely with Pickleball England SW Representatives Peter & Margaret Hunter, the club’s Pickleball family continues to grow and is ready to welcome any new players who want to give it a go - warning: it’s addictive! On Sunday 22nd June, there’s even an England Open Day.
This isn’t just a club for seasoned players – it’s a welcoming hub for all ages and all abilities. Whether you’re into tennis, curious about pickleball, or just fancy a sociable Saturday with the kids, there’s never been a better time to get involved.
Additionally, the club have partnered with Holly’s Holistic Yoga and offer twice-weekly sessions designed specifically for racket sports – think flexibility, core strength, and injury prevention with a yogic twist. Head Coach Stephen Marcelle, recently crowned Somerset LTA Junior Coach of the Year 2024, runs popular junior and adult programmes – helping new players find their feet and rising stars reach their potential.
From sociable rallies and open days to serious league matches (they field six adult teams!), Frome Tennis Club has something for everyone – whether you’re swinging a racket for the first time or chasing that competitive edge.
Want in?
Flexible membership packages, junior perks (free with adult membership), and supportive members make it easy to join the fun. For more information go to: clubspark.lta.org.uk/ fromeselwoodtennisclub
FREE FAMILY TENNIS
COMMUNITY TENNIS COURTS MARY BAILY PLAYING FIELDS VICTORIA PARK FROME BA11 1HB 9.30 AM FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH TO 12.30 PM ALL EQUIPMENT PROVIDED KIDS TO BE ACCOMPANIED BY ADULTS
FOR THE KIDS, THEIR PARENTS AND THE GRANDPARENTS. DUST OFF YOUR RACKET, OR TRY TENNIS FOR THE FIRST TIME.
Rated ‘Excellent’ by the Independent Schools Inspectorate in 2023
Families are invited to join our breakfast event with our Headteacher, Sally Cox for an exploration of the opportunities Springmead School can o er families. Friday 27 June | 8.30am10am th Book in through our website
Frome Independent Market
Frome Town Centre, 10am - 3pm Day Of Nature
The American Museum, 10am - 5pm
The History & Legacy of NYC’s Stonewall Rising
The American Museum, 2.30 - 3.30pm
Mojo Moves Cheese & Grain, 6.45pm, £8
Improv Jame The Awesome Studio, 7 - 8.30pm
Friends of Vallis Members Day
Vallis Farm, 9am - 3pm, £30 annual membership
A Streetcar Named Desire (NT Live screening) Merlin Theatre, 7pm £18/£15
Mojo Moves RISE, 9.30 - 10.15pm, £8
Toddler Takeover
The Awesome Studio, 10-11.30am
Qigong, Vallis Farm, 10:15 - 11:30, £12
Foraging & Wildcrafting
Workshop with Joanna Webber
1 - 4.30pm
Garden Grooves Ian Ballamy Trio
The American Museum, 6 - 9pm
Family Community Tennis
Sessions Frome Tennis Club, 9.30am - 12.30pm
Frome Friends Of Palestine
Jumble Sale Holy Trinity Church Hall, 10am - 1pm, £1
Healing Balms and Ointments
Vallis Farm, 10am - 2pm £40-£50
Frome Carnival Family Funday & Dog Show Victoria Park, 12 - 5pm
