The List Frome - October 2020

Let Them Eat Cake – recipes from our new resident foodie

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ISSUE 117

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october 2020

Utilitarian Utopia at Frome Hardware

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CTS INTERIORS

C URTAIN S | B LINDS | SHU T TERS info@ctsinteriors.co.uk www.ctsinteriors.co.uk 07711027515

ISSUE 117 october 2020

Rose Langley

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aise your hands if you thought - naively that things might be getting back to precorona normality just about now. Well, I certainly did. I thought that, if we did lockdown properly, avoided taking unnecessary risks (or trips to Durham), we’d get our liberties back one by one, until life was nice and familiar once again.

I was wrong.

So, what is a pl anner to do – when pl anning doesn’t work?

I am a planner, which I think is a good thing. My husband is not. I live somewhere in the future and he lives very much in the present, which I hear is the better option. But sometimes being a planner is very useful. For my impending fortieth birthday, I had long ago planned a weekend away with twenty of my oldest friends. No kids - just three days of heavenly adult time in the countryside, combining overindulgence in wine with glorious, uninterrupted lie-ins.

Now, of course, the plan has come unstuck. Like so many plans we all had for this year, it has become utterly unimaginable. So I made another plan. A big outdoors walk. Nope, not a goer – too

» The List Recommends » Cover story » Food With Folk Recipe

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» Artists Of Frome

16-17

» Shop Local

18-20

» Health & Wellbeing » House & Home » The Frome Fossil

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many people. Right. How about going out for a meal with a smaller group? Hmm, sure, but once the kids are in bed you’ll have precisely two hours to eat and drink before being turfed out at ten, with just enough alcohol in you to make you want to keep going all night but nowhere to go. OK, well at least we have our family holiday later in the year, with siblings, grandparents, all the kids and dogs running about together. That would make up for the birthday washout. Wrong again.

So, what is a planner to do – when planning doesn’t work? I’m trying two things. Firstly, to be grateful, aware of what I have here and now and how that makes me incredibly lucky. Second, to daydream like crazy about all the things I’ll do at an unspecified point on the future (but when?

WHEN?). I’m calling it my Pipedream List because, when you are in the midst of a global pandemic, end date tbc, you can just let your imagination run away to explore ideas which may or may not have any hope of becoming reality. Currently on this list I have: buying a woodland, taking a year off to walk the coastline of the UK, moving to Brittany, opening an animal sanctuary for miniature farm animals, throwing a humungous banquet as a belated 40th and knitting a big cosy winter cardigan. OK, so the last one I CAN do now, I’m just waiting for the right time to start. Honest.

Design: blackinkstudio.co.uk Front cover: Frome Hardware Cover Image: Arcade www.arcadeagency.co.uk Copy deadline for the November issue: October 14th Published by Rose Langley, trading as Make a List Publishing, Sole Proprietor Editor Rose Langley 07957878717 rose@thelistfrome.co.uk . thelistfrome.co.uk *The publishers shall not be liable for any loss occasioned by the failure of an advertisement to appear, or any damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions or misprints.

» the list recommends « 6x6-TheBigExhibitionof TinyArtworks

Historia- An exhibition byAmyJeffs

The Why Gallery’s annual fundraising art exhibition ‘6x6’ returns to The Silk Mill for another year. Over 100 pieces of artwork, donated by artists, and each measuring 6 x 6 inches, are available to buy for £40 each. The proceeds of work sold go to local cancer counselling charity We Hear You.

Historia is a show of linocut and wood-engraved prints by artist and author, Amy Jeffs, taking place at The WHY Gallery. Inspired by her academic research into the medieval origin myths of Britain and the conventions of medieval art, the artworks are nostalgic for a land of giants, goddesses and hermits.

They explore enigmatic poems and tales of saints and seafarers. They ask what truths are to be found in these histories and what is their legacy today?

Preview: 6-8pm Friday 9th October Opening times: Saturday 10th October 10-5pm, Sunday 11th October 11-4pm

Amy is writing and illustrating ‘Storyland: a New Mythology of Britain’ for Riverrun, Quercus, to be published in Autumn, 2021. In April, she gained a PhD in History of Art from the University of Cambridge. She produces her prints at Frome’s Black Pig Printmaking Studio and spends as much time as she can in the wilds.

The exhibition runs from 17th October – 21st November and the preview evening is on October 16th, 6-8pm – please see gallery website or social media to book: @thewhygallery www.whygallery.co.uk

CABIN-Kate Evans Back by popular demand, Kate Evans’ third solo exhibition in Frome, C A B I N opens this month at Kobi and Teal. Kate’s work is well known for her use of delicate line drawings and textural watercolour washes set against large areas of negative space.

These paintings beautifully reflect the richness of their subject matter, often depicting desolate farms in remote areas of America, Scandinavia and Europe found on the artist’s travels. This year will see a more varied set of locations, with a series of paintings capturing cabins, barns, huts and hideouts, from Bali and Vietnam to Sweden and Canada. The exhibition runs from 7th October – 14th November.

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LazySundaysatHesperian Every Sunday, Frome’s newest eatery, Hesperian, will be serving up brunch classics including kippers on toast, kedgeree and poached eggs with smoked trout, ham hock or mushrooms and spinach. Hesperian’s neighbours, The Rye Bakery, will also be open, selling their incredible croissants, pastries, coffees and even bloody mary’s.

A small market of select stalls will be selling flowers, organic bulbs, pre-loved clothes and vintage finds.

You’ll find Hesperian and The Rye Bakery at Station Approach, and brunch is served every Sunday from October 4th, 10am – 2pm.

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Janie Godfrey Frome Bowen Clinic 01373 452 422 www.bowenclinicfrome.com

6x6

art exhibition in aid of We Hear You

THE WHY GALLERY

are asking artists to become part of their Autumn Exhibition 6x6

The annual fundraising art exhibition ‘6x6’ returns for another year. Over 100 pieces of artwork donated by artists, each measuring 6x6 inches will be available to buy for £40 each. The proceeds of all work sold will go to local cancer counselling charity We Hear You. If you are an artist who would like to donate a piece of work, please deliver by 3rd October to The Why Gallery, 3 Stony St, Frome, BA11 1NG

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» the list recommends « AllRise–Frome’s beloved venue reopens

FatRadishServeUp ANight OfNostalgia

Once again the large wooden doors of Rise are open, and a wide range of classes are now running. “We are so happy to be able to run our wonderful classes again,” says venue manager Sarah. There is something for everyone, from babies to teens, new mums to the older generation, including Yoga for all ages, Tai Chi, Qigong, pre and post natal classes, children’s music classes and relaxing classes for the mind and soul.

This October 4th, Fat Radish host their first ever Kitsch Night, serving up five courses and retro cocktails to take you back to a time in culinary history that should be forgiven, but not forgotten…

Hosting a night of nostalgia, the Radish Kitsch-en will be re-imagining the best old school dishes, with a creative twist on prawn cocktail, a deliciously rich chicken kiev and gammon ham with parsley and Babycham sauce, topped off with peach melba and a fat black forest. With other surprises along the way, including a COVID-friendly fondue and vintage vol au vents, this is kitsch cuisine like you’ve never seen it before.

“We have loved welcoming back our regular classes from before lockdown, as well as some new exciting additions to our schedule. Rise is a very safe venue, with plenty of space for social distancing, good ventilation and all current guidelines in place to help all our customers feel safe and secure when they come back to indoor classes. The gallery is still temporarily closed until we can make it a safe place to visit, but we are working hard to get a show ready for Christmas,” Sarah told us.

The Rye Bakery café is back open with new hours of 10am until 4pm, with plenty of space both indoors and out. All classes can be found on the online calendar on the Rise website: www.risefrome.com

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Blue lagoons, ‘Kitsch Royales’ and pina coladas are among just some of the guilty pleasures being served up by the bar, with five cocktails and shorts to accompany each course. Shoulder pads and dreadful perfume all very much encouraged. The night starts at 6pm, with all tables being served at the same time, and advanced booking essential.

Five courses and accompanying drinks for just £50, to book contact Sharky on 01373 596102 or email manager@fatradish.co.uk

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RISE

In the heart of Frome The team at RISE have been busy with plans for the new year ahead. The beautiful former United Reform Church on Whittox Lane was bought by current owners Ed and Io, who fell in love with the building, and were inspired by what the place could become. As a former church, the building has always been a strong focal point for the local community, and somewhere that people could meet. And this is something which still rings true today – RISE offers a place for people to meet, work, play and relax; and in 2020 they will be offering even more for the community to join in with. Including: New Baby Sensory, preschool music classes and baby first aid, new weekend yoga workshops and brilliant weekly exercise classes to help you feel fit and healthy including Tai Chi, Vinyasa Yoga, Pilates, Mojo Moves, Iyengar Yoga, Systema Frome and Hula Hooping. There are also after school classes including Teen Yoga, Elliart and Rosie Glow Yoga.

The stunning Whittox Gallery, situated in its elevated position on

the mezzanine that runs around the upper part of the building, is ILLUSTRATION TYPOGRAPHY DESIGN installing new lighting, ready for the next round of breathtaking

fancystudio.co.uk |exhibitions 07747 125booked 578 in for 2020. To keep up with all the news from

RISE, and to find out about events, workshop times and classes, go to www.RiseFrome.com

aussie influenced health foods cafe / takeaway superfood smoothies, buddha bowls, coffee, cold press juices, acai bowls, sweet treats, poke

a place to be together

VENUE HIR E | CL A SSES | A RT GA LLERY | FOOD

Formerly known as the HUBnub Centre, RISE is a place to eat, learn, play and be together.

both lower images from @batheats 14 king street, frome, somerset, tuesday - saturday | 09:00am-3:00pm 01373 471 368 | nooktheshop.co.uk | nooktheshop@gmail.com

WHITTOX LANE, FROME, BA11 3BY 07712 523734

www.risefrome.com info@risefrome.com

LOOKING FOR A VENUE? ● Two beautiful, affordable and versatile venue spaces ● Classes ● Events ● Business meetings ● Children’s birthday parties ● Starting from £15 per hour

Find full details for THE OLD SCHOOL ROOM and THE SUN ROOM on our website and check for venue availability of each of our spaces using our online Calendar.

Happy New Year!

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Featu re s

7 11/10/2019 12:39

Helen Moore A n d H e r WI ld Ways

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he Frome-based ecopoet and socially engaged artist, Helen Moore, has been steadily gaining an international reputation in recent years.

With her 2015 collection ECOZOA described as a ‘milestone in the journey of ecopoetics’, her talents have subsequently been recognised and rewarded as far away as Australia, India and Italy. And despite Covid’s restrictions, her reputation has strengthened at home this year too, in the form of a £10,000 grant from the Royal Literary Fund, nomination for this year’s Forward Prize in ‘best poem’ category, plus a commission from Cape Farewell, a Dorset-based eco-arts organisation, to collaborate on RiverRun, responding to pollution in Poole Harbour and rivers draining into it. With her writing often informed by research, Helen relishes such projects, which offer rich opportunities to engage with scientists and fellow artists.

Helen also loves nurturing creativity, and in March launched Wild Ways to Writing, an online mentoring programme taking people on a unique creative

writing journey into deeper nature connection.

Assisting writers at all levels of experience to develop a ‘co-creative writing practice’ inspired by the natural world and our ‘wild self’, Helen is already mentoring students across the UK and internationally. And her themed assignments, with prompts to inspire outdoor writing, are proving to enhance not just selfexpression but also wellbeing and resilience in the face of collective planetary crises. With spaces for further mentees, Helen’s service could make an ideal gift for budding writers who like getting muddy.

Online mentoring with Helen Moore A unique creative writing journey into deeper Nature connection

Would you like to develop a co-creative writing practice inspired by the natural world & your wild self?

Pricing

I offer regular mentoring through my Wild Ways to Writing programme to enhance your creative expression, expand your sense of self...

£35: Follow-up session. Afterwards you may opt to embark on the full creative journey (12 assignments) at your own regular pace.

and develop more resilient ways of relating with the Earth at this time of planetary crisis.

Our shared commitment

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£15: Our initial consultation. You’ll receive writing guidelines and your first taster assignment.

£380: Advance discount 12 session sign-up.

Or pay for each session at the full rate of £35.

Helen Moore is an internationally acclaimed,

award-winning British ecopoet. essayist & short fiction writer.

Work with me at your own pace, through weekly, fortnightly or monthly sessions following my programme of original assignments.

She is also a socially engaged artist & outdoor educator based in Somerset. She has taught poetry and creative writing for many years, both in groups, on retreats and through 1:1 mentoring.

I offer themed resources, short extracts and prompts to inspire your outdoor explorations and writing. You’ll commit to giving at least 3 hours creative focus to each assignment. I’ll then provide constructive feedback by video call and email.

For more details or to arrange an initial consultation, please email greenseerbooks@gmail.com

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Featu re s

www.helenmoorepoet.com

Presents

SUNDAY BRUNCH Putting the easy back into a Sunday Morning...

Every Sunday from 4th October 10am-2pm eat-shop-chill MENU

Poached Eggs Hollandaise with a choice of...

Chalk Stream Rainbow Trout • Ham Hock • Field Mushroom • Spinach Porridge • Kipper Fillets • Toast • Hesperian Kedgeree Rye Bakery Croissants Coffee • Fruit Juices • Bloody Mary

Unit 1 Station Approach, Frome, BA11 1RE

www.hesperianfish.co.uk

@hesperianfish

Stalls, Bulbs & Flowers, Pre Loved Clothes, Bric A Brac & Vintage Finds

TH E LI S T FR O M E

Fe a t u r e s 9

Hunting Raven Ch r i s tm as P o p - U p s

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n Wednesday 18th March, Winstone’s Hunting Raven Books was crowned Best Independent Bookshop in the South West in the British Book Awards. Just five days later, like so many businesses across the country, they closed their doors due to Covid-19 – uncertain about what lay ahead.

With the support of their ‘sister shop’ in Sherborne, they kept going throughout lockdown – adapting to the ever-changing landscape that came with it. “When we re-opened in June, we were so thrilled to welcome our customers back to the shop and were overwhelmed by the show of support from the community as they chose to support local businesses like ours,” says shop manager Tina. “But we were already thinking forward to the winter and the busy Christmas that lay ahead. On our busiest days in December we can have upwards of 50 people in the shop at one time – with queues at the till often ten people deep. With restrictions in place, it was clear to us that we would have to do Christmas very differently this year.”

After running a very successful socially-distanced summer sale at the Silk Mill in August, Tina decided to build upon this idea and book the beautiful space for three weekends – one in October, one in November, and one in December – to host a series of socially distanced Christmas pop-ups.

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The idea is to spread out the Christmas shopping period, easing pressure on the shop in Cheap Street by showcasing the very best books of the season in a bright, airy and comfortable space that can accommodate far more browsers. There will be special offers, little extras and perhaps even a mince pie or two! Shoppers can choose to take their purchases away with them on the day or place an order for collection or delivery nearer the time. New titles will continue to be published right up to the start of December, so there will be something new at each of the three weekends.

The usual ‘shop rules’ will be in force – everyone will be asked to wear masks (if not exempt), sanitise their hands on entry, and maintain social distancing. The number of shoppers in the space at any one time will also be limited.

The October Edition of Winstone’s Hunting Raven Books Christmas Pop-Up will take place on Friday 23rd, Saturday 24th, and Sunday 25th October from 10am until 4pm at The Silk Mill, Merchants Barton.

For more information contact Tina on 01373 473111 or winstonebooks3@gmail.com

Join us for the first of three special festive weekends in the Silk Mill, as we showcase the very best books the season has to offer.

There will be offers and extras aplenty – and maybe even some mince pies.

So don your mask, sanitise your hands and get Christmas wrapped up early!

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Frome Hardware Make, Do

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pening the shop was easily one of the most terrifying things I have ever done. I left a secure job with reasonable pay, career progression, holidays and a pension to buy a little ‘master of none’ kind of general store.” And four years later, Frome Hardware has proved such a hit, that owner Dan Gallally has moved to larger premises, directly opposite his old shop. “I’ve had my eye on this shop ever since moving onto Catherine Hill. I think it’s one of the nicest spaces on the hill, and the thought of not taking the opportunity to move across would have always haunted me. I think I just outgrew the space really. More and more of what I am doing involves making things (which I love) and that requires more room.”

More space means more options, and Dan has been making plans for how to make the most of the new shop. “I’d like to expand it more really. The new space was attractive because the extra room means that I can finally do some workshops. Despite leaving teaching, I’ve always wanted to incorporate it into the shop. I’d like to run some simple woodworking courses myself, maybe some DIY things, but also to rent the space out

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to other makers who want to run their own classes. I’ve not really opened the mezzanine upstairs yet – I’m still deciding how best to use the space. I have a wood lathe up there at the moment, which will soon be put to use making stock for the shop, but I’m a little apprehensive about the amount of mess that it will make - is a fine layer of wood dust acceptable in a ‘working hardware shop’? We’ll have to see about that.”

Though his background isn’t in retail, Dan’s previous career in education set him in good stead to run a hardware shop. “I did a degree in Fine Art Sculpture at Falmouth, then an HND in furniture making and a Masters in Product Design. I then got a job as a DT technician at a secondary school in Bath. Being in a workshop and helping children make things is fun and rewarding, and I thought that teaching would be a nice thing to do. I worked as a teacher for eight years at three different schools, teaching Resistant Materials, Product Design, Graphics, Food Technology and Art, but it’s a pretty relentless profession and I realised it wasn’t for me any more. I have lots of respect for teachers, they are an exceptionally hardworking bunch of people.”

Dan has been careful to keep the shop stocked with items that are as interesting as they are useful, not attempting to compete with the larger hardware stores. “We are not an ordinary hardware shop. I’m not trying to compete with Homebase and Proper Job. I try and find the unusual items that they miss. I don’t feel too bad about not stocking every type of screw or hinge when I know you can get them at one of those other shops. I once heard a young girl say ‘Dad, is this what the inside of your head looks like?’ which I enjoyed.” As well as stocking items to buy off the shelves, Frome Hardware offers several useful services, which have proved very popular. “We have two laser cutters in the shop, which are usually trundling away, and we make a wide range of things: signage for businesses and houses, rubber stamps, business merchandise, customised gifts, sports medals, keyrings, wedding accessories – more than I can reel off. I think having the laser in the shop quickly became our kind of USP. We now offer a knife/ tool sharpening service, which is proving very popular, and Sophia and I are always making something.”

“I’m not trying to compete with Homebase and Proper Job. I try and find the unusual items that they miss”

Dan is joined in the shop by fellow Falmouth University graduate Sophia, who has been working at the shop since lockdown. “As a fellow maker, Sophia has quickly been able to pickup the shop/workshop mentality and is always making something. My wife Meg is also getting a little more involved in the shop.

She is a part-time teacher and jewellery maker, and she’ll be developing the online side of the business and organising workshops.” Over the last four years, Frome Hardware has worked for a wide range if interesting clients. “I have done laser cutting for such a wide variety of people and places: plant stakes for the Eden project, the Parliament Portcullis emblem on voting boxes in the Houses of Parliament, Merchandise for Screwfix, Golden Japanese spades for the BBC’s Gardeners World, retail stands for The Newt and merchandise for folk singers John Smith and Cara Dillon. I’ve also laser engraved on a sausage for a branded hotdog!”

After four years on Catherine Hill, opening up after lockdown gave Dan a renewed appreciation for the town he calls home. “It’s lovely that there is such a strong community here, and after shops re-opened there is a definite sense that people are trying their best to support the high street and the independent businesses. Frome is brilliant.”

14 Catherine Hill, Frome www.fromehardware.com @fromehardware Photography: This page – Arcade, www.arcadeagency.co.uk Opposite – Alice Nelson

C o ve r S t o r y

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Chocolate& SquashCake Our new resident Foodie, Laura Coate, gets Autumnal with an unusual, but mouthwatering combination.

F

or me, squash is the single vegetable that epitomises Autumn. The colours are those of fallen leaves, and its very nature means that it must be cooked, thus it often works its way into stews, curries and bakes - all dishes which I welcome during this season more than any other, as the days turn cooler and my need for comfort eases up a notch.

This cake is best eaten an hour out of the oven, with an unrestrained blob of crème fraîche on the side.

That said, I could quite easily wolf a slice with coffee at any time of the day, in which case, I’d wrap the cake tightly and it should keep happily (dare I say, improve, even) for a day or two.

300g orange-fleshed squash, seeded, peeled and cut into rough chunks 200g, plus 25g extra butter 1/2 tsp mixed spice 200g dark chocolate 135g plain flour 2 tbsp cocoa powder 1 heaped tsp baking powder 5 large eggs, separated 160g light brown sugar

Place the squash in an oven dish and dot with the 25g butter, cut into small pieces. Sprinkle with mixed spice, then cover with foil and roast for 45 minutes, removing and giving the dish a good shake every 15 minutes or so. Once tender, remove from the oven and tip into a food processor, along with any buttery juices from the dish. Pulse briefly, until you have a loose, rough purée. (If it seems a little on the stodgy side, add a few tbsp boiling water and pulse just a touch more.)

While the squash is roasting, place a heatproof bowl over a pan of barely simmering water and add in the chocolate, roughly broken into chunks.

Once melted, add the remaining butter in cubes and stir until nicely smooth. Remove the bowl from the heat and set aside for a moment.

Whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until thickened and fudge-coloured. Stir this into the melted chocolate mixture, followed by the squash purée. Give everything a really good stir to make sure any small clumps of squash are evenly dispersed.

Using a freestanding mixer or an electric whisk I’m going to apologise for the volume of washing up at this stage - whisk the egg whites until they hold their shape. Take a metal spoon and gently fold through large dollops of the whites (roughly a third at a time), being careful not to overmix.

Finally, fold through the flour mixture.

Pour into the prepared tin and place in the oven, turning the temperature down to 160C, and bake for 40 minutes, until the top looks cooked - though a skewer should come out slightly chocolatey.

Allow to cool in the tin for an hour or so, until you’re ready to dig in.

Serves 10, easily. (You’re welcome.)

20cm tin, greased and lined Preheat the oven to 190C/gas mark 5.

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Fo o d W i t h Fo l k R e c i p e

Follow Laura for updates and recipes: Instagram @foodwithfolk

07889 385670 INFO@MARKBROOKES.NET MARKBROOKES.BIGCARTEL.COM

www.retributiondistilling.co.uk Distilled and bottled in Frome, Somerset

TULS I O RI E N TA L TE X TI LE S Frome’s best kept secret

Accessories • Jewellery Contemporary Household Textiles Antique and Tribal Textiles

Visit our 2020 Christmas Bazaar

Open until October 20th Please phone 01373832856 to book your visit to allow us to adhere to social distancing rules.

We ask all visitors to wear a mask.

Collection every Wednesday 5.30pm to 7.30pm HOME DELIVERY AVAILABLE

For the full list of local, sustainable & seasonal produce and to order online go to our website

Refreshments provided.

www.tots-unlimited.co.uk

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Fo o d W it h Fol k Recip e

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Artists Of Frome With A b i ga i l R e e d What is your artistic background?

What is your physical creative

After completing my Art Foundation in my hometown of Bath, I went on to do a BA in Fine Art Painting at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff.

process? What materials and

What made you follow this path?

After my degree I moved to Bristol, where I balanced being a young mum and forging a career in the arts.

I have always drawn since I was very small, and that was always really valued in my family, along with an appreciation for nature. Once my kids went to school I started to get involved in community art projects at places like RWA Bristol, Bristol Children’s Hospital and various care homes across the city. I have always felt the need to use my skills as an artist to be involved with my community. Making art can be a very solitary act, so being around people and helping them can be extremely gratifying.

techniques do you use?

It’s always been about drawing for me. I’ve dipped in and out of phases of painting but I am always drawn back to the simplicity of drawing. The way you can take very basic materials (a piece of charcoal and paper) and conjure up a place or animal that has real weight to it is just magic to me. Drawing can be as expansive as you like, from a tiny landscape sketch on a piece of A4, to a life-sized drawing of a bear, I’ve tried it all. I use a lot of charcoal, and tend to fill the ground I am working on with it heavily first, then with a rag or putty rubber (sometimes my fingertips)I tease out the light and start to bring out the image. Recently I have started to explore colour with soft pastels. I just love the freedom of drawing; there are no barriers, you just pull out the paper and start drawing immediately, and that suits the way I think.

What inspires your work?

I walk a lot and take photographs that become drawings. I love the forests and landscapes around Frome, they are transformative. On a hot sunny day, on entering the forest, it can suddenly feel like night time.

When walking next to the deserted quarry, it can feel as if you are in a totally foreign landscape, and I like how this affects my mood. I am inspired by animals too, from huge bears that are powerful and fierce to delicate moths that flutter in the darkness, hidden from sight. I like to bring these subjects into view for an audience to look up in wonder at and be drawn into.

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and you notice more. With the animal drawings it’s different, it is about preserving what may be lost one day, human fear and wonder of beasts, big and small.

What artists inspire you, and why?

Nicola Hicks, Eva Jospin, Hannah Brown, Sarah Gillespie, Beth Carter, Carolein Smit, Esther May Campbell.

If you hadn’t become an artist, what would you have done?

I would work with children as I like how they see the world. They are in a constant state of discovery and wonder.

How do you find Frome, in terms of creativity and artistic community?

How did lockdown affect the way

We are very lucky to have so many established art galleries and spaces here; there is a lot going on, and that is partly down to the will of the people who live here. It was definitely what pulled me here, along with family who live nearby and a need to be nearer the countryside.

you work and create?

After the initial shock and worry about my financial future, I took the time to get my head down and create as much as I could. Time is precious to busy artist mothers, so I took it as a gift, albeit one shrouded with anxiety. Once I learnt to sit with that and form a balance between supporting my family and working in my studio, it was ok. Schemes like the Artist Support Pledge on Instagram have been a lifeline for me. It’s been sad not continuing to visit the Children’s Hospital where I was visiting artist for the last few years.

Are there any artistic processes/ disciplines which you haven’t worked in/with, but would like to?

I’d like to become more confident at painting, especially in colour.

How can people see and buy your work?

@abigailreedartist Or @abigailreed_artworkshops on Instagram. For prints: AbigailReedArtist.etsy.com. Or you can email me abigailreed@hotmail.co.uk and I can send you a catalogue of available works, including prints.

Where do you work from? Tell us about your studio.

I moved from Bristol just over one year ago, where I had been lucky enough to have a space at Jamaica Street Artists for 13 years. Now I have a space at the beautiful Silk Mill studios - a bit of a contrast to the streets of Stokes Croft! I am definitely one of those artists who need a space to go out to everyday. Once I am in my studio in my creative bubble, I can connect fully with that part of me and to be around like-minded creatives at the Silk Mill too. That is just essential for me.

I have plans to start up some art clubs for kids at the Silk Mill, and drawing workshops for adults whenever it becomes safe enough to do so. I can also offer one to one drawing tutoring for kids and young adults – readers can get in contact if they are interested. Oneoff workshops in schools can be arranged.

What is your favourite place to be for artistic inspiration?

In big epic landscapes. If you can’t get there then the local park will do. It’s all about looking and connecting with a place for me. Once you draw a place, the connection is deepened, you see it change over time THE LIST FROME

Artists of Frome

17

Cotton Tote Bag £14.50

Rose gold & Yellow Bee Ear-climbers £195.00

the golden goose

Marchbank Jewellery

Recycled silver chunky ring £105 Christina Oswin Jewellery

Gifts & Goodies

Calm & Cosy soy candle by Hazel & Blue £15 The Why Gallery

S h o p Lo ca l

18

Everyday Large Mug - Available in seven colours

Rattan proving baskets from

and two sizes £33/35 Kobi & Teal

£12.95 Frome Hardware

THE LIST FROME

Shop Local

For all your Jewellery Commissions, Repairs and Valuations 6 Cheap Street Frome, BA11 1BN 01373 455332 www.marchbankjewellery.com

Printmaking classes & open access membership available 1 Bath Street, Frome, BA11 1DG _ at Bat Print Studio, Silk Mill, Frome , BA11 1PT www.batprintstudio.com

01373 764 472 hello@matthewpaulinteriors.co.uk Matthew Paul Interiors

COMMISSIONS WEDDING RINGS REPAIRS REMODELLING 20A Cheap Street . Frome . BA11 1BN . 01373 472505 Christina Oswin Jewellery @christinaoswin

christinaoswin.co.uk

THE LIST FROME

He alt h & Well b e i n g

19

Perpetual Disappointments Diary £9.99 Patchwork Bolster Cushion

Hunting Raven Cotton Tote Bag £14.50

£78 Kobi & Teal

the golden goose

‘Protection’ earrings by Stuff Made From Things £30 The Why Gallery

Gifts & Goodies S h o p Lo ca l Sorrento Vase £5.95 – £9.95 Matthew Paul Interiors Enamel candle Frome Calendar by Mark Brookes £10 Available

stick holders

at Hunting Raven Books, Postscript,

£14.40

The Why Gallery

(available in Grey, White, Yellow and Green) Frome Hardware

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Healer, parent coach, medium.

Jen Pridgeon MSc BioMed www.letsconnectandfeelbetter.co.uk

t: 07748 758834

Covid-19 Please visit our Facebook page or website for any updates to our services.

At Garston Vets we are here 24 hours a day - from preventative health through to surgery and emergencies, our experienced and dedicated teams have provided professional care since 1911

• Preventative care plans including all vaccinations, flea prevention and worm treatments • The very best advice for the age of your pet including health and nutrition

• Modern, highly equipped and accessible practices • Care for your pets around the clock and emergency surgery at our main site in Frome

A truly independent approach to animal care since 1911 Frome

Melksham

Trowbridge

Warminster

Westbury

01373 452225 01225 617779 01225 754021 01985 213350 01373 301448

www.garstonvets.co.uk TH ELI S TFR O M E

He alt h & Well b e i n g

21

The Golden Goose A n e w s ta rt fo r a n o ld favo u r ite

I

n a town known for its amazing independent shopping, The Golden Goose is one of its longest running and most popular retailers. Opened in 2002 by Tony and Mary Gibson, who have now retired, The Golden Goose is taking a new direction, with new premises and a new owner, Natasha Burns Tully.

“The opportunity arose for me to take over The Golden Goose during lockdown, not the best timing as shops were still closed, but having worked there for 6 years I knew how well loved it was, both with locals and visitors to Frome, always the go-to place for a present and a card. I moved to Frome 15 years ago and have worked in several shops over that time while my kids were little, but I’ve always wanted a place of my own,” says Natasha.

The shop started at the top of Catherine Hill before relocating to Stony Street in 2005, and now the shop has found another home, at 5 Palmer Street. “I love the location of the new shop up on the High Pavement.

My neighbours have been so welcoming and are happy The Goose has landed here. It’s a smaller space but has lovely big windows and is filled with light.”

Natasha will continue to stock many of the popular brands sold in the old shop, as well bringing in a new selection of exciting stock. “I have a passion for interiors. I studied furniture design and design history,

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Fe a t u r e s

and I have always worked in the homeware sector. I bought and sold vintage and antique furniture for ten years so naturally there will be an emphasis on designled homeware. I have also sourced some great products from British designer-makers, which have proved an instant hit. I have an area filled with beautiful toys from Djeco and Moulin Roty, amongst many other brands, and pocket money toys starting from £1.”

Taking over a business during lockdown has had its challenges, but Natasha has enjoyed being back in the community she knows so well. “I really missed the buzz of the shop; it’s so nice to be back in town, chatting customers and fellow traders. It’s been great to see Frome independent shops finding ways to carry on and adapting their businesses over the lock-down. Social media has played a big part in keeping the community together and connected. I opened in September so everyone is well practised in distanced shopping. Who knows how the winter will unfold, but I will be offering local delivery and a gift-wrapping and postal service if you can’t make it into the shop in person.”

The Golden Goose is open Monday to Saturday, 10am till 5pm. 5 Palmer Street, Frome. @thegoldengoosefrome @_the_goldengoose www.thegoldengoose.co.uk

Now Open

Monday – Saturday • 10am – 5pm

GIFTS • CARDS • TOYS • INTERIORS

THEGOLDENGOOSE

_T H E _G O L D E N G O O S E 5 PA L M E R S T R E E T, F R O M E T : 0 1 3 7 3 3 0 2 6 0 3

THE. LIST THEGOLDENGOOSE.CO U KFROME

House & Home

23

Doula Chloë Honoré

F

or many expectant parents, going through pregnancy, birth and parenthood can be a daunting prospect. A doula provides emotional and physical support during pregnancy, labour and birth, and also postnatally, with compassion and kindness. Evidence suggests that having a doula present can reduce intervention rates and reduce labour time and, postnatally, increases the likelihood of successful breastfeeding.

The midwives took the time to explain everything without a feeling of being rushed or me being just a number. All the antenatal appointments were at my house and included the rest of my family. It was wonderful. This time I felt completely empowered.

It was the best experience of my life. I felt calm, confident, and totally in control. The weeks after the birth of our third daughter, their care was second-to-none.

Doula and mother of three, Chloë Honoré offers support to help parents-to-be feel empowered and secure through this crucial time.

Her decision to become a doula came “I decided from her own birth experiences.

th at I wa nte d to h e lp oth e r wo m e n a n d fa m i li e s to h av e p o s itiv e b i r th experiences”

“I was a make-up artist for over a decade and met my husband on Girls Aloud’s first tour in 2005. We went on to have two daughters very close together. These two births were traumatic, and as a result I suffered postnatal depression, which affected me for many years. When I was expecting our third child, I decided to have a home birth. From the moment I met the home birth team, I realised that the whole experience of antenatal appointments, labour, birth and postnatal care could be completely different from the stressful and traumatic experiences I had previously had.

I decided that I wanted to help other women and families to have positive birth experiences just as I had had and, after much research, decided that being a doula was the right role for me.

Shortly afterwards, my friend asked me to be her doula, so I had the immense pleasure of being with her and her husband when their son arrived. That was it, decision made. I was born to be a doula.”

During labour your doula can also help you to understand the choices your medical team offer and help you keep calm and focused; they can also advocate for the birthing person and their partner, if they are unable to do so or need a helping hand.

The role of a doula coming into the home during the fourth trimester following birth is to provide education, non-judgmental support and companionship, and to assist with newborn care and family adjustment, meal preparation and light household tasks. Postnatal doulas offer evidence-based information on infant feeding, emotional and physical recovery from birth, infant soothing and coping skills for new parents and can make appropriate referrals when necessary.

For more information go to www.chloehonoredoula.com

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He a lt h & W e l l b e i n g

B I R T H A N D P O S T N ATA L D O U L A Here to help you and your family prepare for the birth of your baby, support you during labour and adjust to life with a newborn.

E: hello@chloehonore.com

T: 07721 747 886

www.chloehonoredoula.com THE LIST FROME

House & Home

25

HARLOWS OF FROME Lettings-Sales-Property Management

01373 430522 On the 1st of June 2019 Harlows of www.harlowsoffrome.co.uk

Frome officially opened their doors with the aim of providing a new experience in lettings and property management.

The team, lead by owner Lisa Cooke, pride themselves on taking a friendly, down-to-earth approach which has helped them to foster great relationships with owners, landlords and tenants. 2020 has brought many challenges for all of us and the Harlows team have made supporting their landlords and tenants the number one priority, offering help with shopping, or just a friendly ear to tenants, to try and help people feel supported and less alone.

This ethos led to talks with Frome charity Active and in Touch, who assist local people who find themselves isolated and lonely. Their team of volunteer befrienders are there to have a friendly chat, helping adults of all ages to regain their confidence. Harlows believe that now more than ever it is important to pull together to support the local community. They will be fundraising for Active and in Touch in the new year, and acting as volunteers both in and out of office hours. Despite this year’s difficulties, Harlows have gone from strength to strength and recently added property sales to their list of services.

To find out more about what they can offer please visit Harlowsoffrome.co.uk or call the office on 01373 430522 for a friendly no obligation chat.

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THE LIST FROME

Artists of Frome

Avalon Interiors Limited Est.2002 07958 529341 housemartincarpentry.com

Christian Johnson ChristianJohnson Johnson Christian H E AT I N G

&

PLUMBING

TheChapel Chapelon onthe theHill Hill The ChurchStreet, Street,Coleford Coleford Church Somerset BA3 BA35NG 5NG Somerset T: 01373 813050

T: 01373 813050 813050 . 07970 332448 01373 M:07970 07970332448 332448 M: fireandwater@hotmail.co.uk fireandwater@hotmail.co.uk fireandwater@hotmail.co.uk

305442 305442

The Chapel on the Hill . Church Street . Coleford . BA3 5NG

THE LIST FROME

Artists of Frome

27

A Growing Range for Autumn fr o m O r ga n i c B u lb s

O

rganic Bulbs now have more than 65 varieties in their organic spring flower bulb range for planting this autumn, with more than 65 varieties of bulbs.

Organic Bulbs is run by landscape designers Adam Hunt and Lulu Urquhart, who specialise in ecology, and have an extensive knowledge of plants. They use their wealth of experience and passion for plants to select new ranges to add to their already extensive organic collection.

New this season are organic edible bulbs like crocus sativus, an autumn flowering crocus whose bright orange stamens can be harvested and dried to create your own home-grown saffron. These should be planted in September and October. Edible garlic bulbs are also in stock and are good to plant in late autumn and early winter through to spring: a softneck variety that produces 10-16 pinkish delicious beige cloves per bulb.

British-grown organic snowdrops and bluebells are amongst the most popular offerings this year too.

These are great to plant in pots, on windowsills or in large drifts in the ground, especially on banks and under trees. Planting these bulbs will expand your garden pollination periods and offer a pesticide-free nutrition to bees and pollinating insects.

“Each of us gardeners can genuinely help by providing a diverse offering of flowering plants across as long a season as is possible. Flowering bulbs planted alongside a healthy range of perennials, shrubs and trees can significantly improve the variety, longevity and quantity of nectar and pollen available for insects. Bulbs that flower outside of the usual temperate growing season, for example crocus, snowdrop and dahlia, are a vital food source. They might help an emerging queen bumblebee in early February or a small tortoiseshell

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THE LIST FROME

House & Home

butterfly fooled into waking up on an unusually warm day in the middle of winter, or in the autumn, giving a much needed last feed to a lonely red admiral butterfly just about to hibernate,” says Lulu.

“Most of the bulbs that are useful for pollinators tend to be species rather than cultivars or hybrids. Research has shown that insects are less concerned about whether their chosen plant is native to their locality or not, but they do fare better with species plants of all kinds, due to the flowers having greater quantities of food. From a garden design perspective, the planting of the species bulbs works well alongside a naturalistic planting style for borders and the creation of wildflower areas, whatever size, in the garden. For those interested in creating wildflower areas, many of the species bulbs naturalise freely, creating easy-to-manage early wildflower areas, lawns or under the dappled shade of fruit trees.”

Organic Bulbs celebrate the organic horticultural trade and craftsmanship, selling complimentary growers’ products like organic seaweed feed and fine copper tools.

You can buy online at www.organicbulbs.com and follow them on Instagram @organicflowerbulbs You can also find them at Frome Sunday Brunch at the Station Approach, every Sunday from the 4th October, 10am-2pm and at their shop on Bruton High Street.

www.OrganicBulbs.love THE LIST FROME

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THE GENT IN THE VAN Th e Fr o m e Fo s s i l

I

t was one of those chilly, misty early mornings in Autumn. As I walked happily down the lane, the odd leaf twirled to the ground and the verges glittered with dew. A raven croaked far overhead. And there, on the grass, sat a little van with its doors wide open. Now this is not necessarily a welcome sight.

A parked van round here can mean a fly-tipper, or a poacher, or the messy end of a joy-rider’s night out. My dog went to have a tentative sniff.

But the windows were covered and all seemed serene and litter-free. Probably someone asleep, I thought. So with unwonted delicacy I nudged the dog aside, tiptoed silently past and went on my way. On my return, the van was still there. I tried to creep furtively past again, only to be interrupted by a clipped voice wishing me Good Morning.

From the bowels of the vehicle emerged a thin, bearded, serious chap of about 60, with a pot of yogurt in his hand. We started chatting. “I found my way here once before by accident,” he said. “Now I’ve done it again.

Such a peaceful spot. All I heard last night were a barn owl and a stag. You’re lucky to live here.” I asked where he’d come from, thinking by his envious tone that it must be Wolverhampton or Dalston or Greenock or some other armpit of urban grimness. But no. “Oh, Cornwall,” he replied off-handedly.

You what? I thought. Cornwall? Is that not peaceful? And magical? And stunningly beautiful?

“It’s nothing like what you’ve got here,” he said.

“People only go to Cornwall for the coastline. The rest of it’s just bleak and dull. I’d leave if I could.” I was speechless. The gloom rolled on. “I’ve got no family there. Or anywhere really. Except a brother who lives in Australia, and I only see him every five years.”

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I was almost blubbing by now. This lonesome bloke just wandered desolately about in his van. Next stop was Keswick, apparently, where his mother is buried. He was going to row out onto Derwent Water and scatter a bunch of flowers in her memory. Then he would dawdle his solitary way back to Cornwall, which he doesn’t really like. I hope the memory of a tranquil night on a Somerset lane will sustain him through the winter.

CONTEMPORARY NEW HOMES AVAILABLE ON CAXTON ROAD, FROME FIRST HOMES RELEASED FOR SALE MARKETING SUITE & SHOW HOME LAUNCH IN EARLY OCTOBER 2020

First Releases: 2 bed coach houses from £275,000 3 bed houses from £305,000 4 bed houses from £400,000

Introducing The Old Printworks, a collection of 2, 3 & 4 bedroom homes located at the former Butler, Tanner & Dennis site.

The first phase of fifty-one homes offer superb contemporary living with a high-quality specification and bespoke design. With well-being in mind, the homes will benefit from access to green open space, links to riverside walks along the River Frome as well as a children’s play area.

CONTACT US AND SPEAK TO OUR SALES TEAM TO FIND OUT MORE

THE OLD PRINTWORKS, CAXTON ROAD, FROME BA11 1NE

To register your interest contact: 01373 888 303 theoldprintworks@acornpg.org acornpropertygroup.org An Acorn Property Group led development in conjunction with London & County.

Computer generated images for illustrative purposes only.

Prices correct at time of print.