A place to GROW
YO U R GU I D E TO E VE RY TH I N G FR O M E
DECEMBER 2023
ISSUE 152
Festive celebrations galore!
Christmas Gift Guide
VALLIS FARM
“All Hallows looks for the best in every child, they know every individual and value each on their own merit.” Parent, Tatler Schools Guide 2024 What truly sets All Hallows apart is our belief that education transcends the classroom. Our generous facilities and exceptional extracurricular activities nurture curiosity, self-belief, and passion. Whether through sports, art, design, music, drama or academics, every pupil discovers their unique brilliance.
Located at East Cranmore, we offer convenient bus services in the morning and evening through Frome and surrounding villages. Contact Jackie Truelove, All Hallows’ Registrar, to find out how you can secure your child’s place. 01749 881609 | admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk | www.allhallowsschool.co.uk
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ISSUE 152 december
Morag Stuart & Emma Warren
S
o that’s it. The evenings are dark, lights flicker on after the school pick-ups at dusk, and cosy fires are lit in lounges across the town. The shortest day, another season and another year are just around the corner. We’re quitting the endless ‘to-do’ lists as it’s officially time to hunker down and reflect.
Time, resources and budgets are all shrinking every week, it seems. Everything seems so much more considered now: the choices we make, Frome rightly where we shop, who has a reputation we invest in, the effort we make to for being compassionate. greet friends and strangers. We feel so fortunate to be immersed in this community of independent thinkers, dynamic small businesses with that passionate can-do / why-not approach to life. Frome rightly has a reputation for being compassionate. Life may change direction every now and
» The List Recommends
4-11
» Cover Story
14-15
» Events Calendar
20-21
» Christmas Gift Guide
18-27
» Food & Drink
28-31
» House & Home
35-37
» My Frome
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then, but we know that our friends and neighbours are there to catch us. We also know that this month can be a challenging time for lots of people for many different reasons. Please look out for the charity collections at festive events for Frome’s Christmas Get-Together with special events on Christmas Day for anyone who would like some company. To be able to welcome the whole community together is unique and inspiring for everyone involved. Frome really is a wonderful place to live. As our time covering Rose’s maternity leave draws to a close, we want to thank you all. It’s been such a privilege, especially to see all our cover stars shine so bright this year. This gorgeous publication only exists because you’re all doing so much good stuff, and Rose is committed to celebrating this success because all our lives are better for it. We’ve loved every minute, but phew, we’ve not broken this special gem!
Design: blackinkstudio.co.uk Front cover: Vallis Farm Copy deadline for the January/February issue: January 8th
Published by Rose Langley, trading as Make a List Publishing, Sole Proprietor Editors (maternity cover) Morag Stuart & Emma Warren 07957 878717 . thelistfrome@gmail.com *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 «
Live music: Fathers
Carols in the Courtyard
Bar Lotte, Sun 3rd Dec, 5.30pm, Free Americana four piece, Fathers, perform a mixture of originals and favourites from the likes of the The Band, Neil Young and Bob Dylan. Led by singer drummer Ned Berry, expect tight four-part harmony and virtuosic solos that will transport you back to 1971.
The Frome Independent Town Centre, Sun 3rd Dec, 10am - 3pm, Free The last market of the year is the perfect chance to get your Christmas shopping all sorted: for gorgeous gifts and special stocking fillers directly from incredible local designers, makers and producers. You’ll find an amazing selection of jewellery, ceramics, homewares and fragrances, apparel, skincare, accessories and original artwork. Stock up on seasonal treats, food, drinks from the Somerset Farmers Market. Create an individual gift bag for the food lover in your life with salsa, hot chocolate, dressings, pickles and spice mixes. You’ll find local gin, cider brandy, liqueurs, wine and of course delicious Somerset cider to add sparkle to your celebrations. There’s always a lovely festive feel to the December market, with choirs, mulled cider and wine, Christmas trees and wreaths. Make a day of it and treat yourself to lunch with the best street food in the south west. 4
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The River House, Thu 21st Dec, 7 - 10pm, Donations to Fair Frome One of the most popular nights of the year, this fabulously festive event is a firm favourite in the Frome Christmas calendar. Led by the brilliant Songbirds choir, this special evening of carols, cocktails and general merriment is not to be missed!
» the list recommends « 01373 465949 merlintheatre.co.uk Bath Rd . Frome . BA11 2HG
NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE
DEAR ENGLAND
THURSDAY 25 JANUARY 7PM
NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE
VANYA
WEDNESDAY 28 FEBRUARY 7PM
BECOME A FRIEND AND SUPPORT THE MERLIN THEATRE MEMBERSHIP £25.00
Receive special ticket rates for our screenings, in-house productions and early bird ticket offers. Every penny we receive helps keep this wonderful community theatre alive!
FROME ART SOCIETY WINTER EXHIBITION
Round Tower Gallery 25 November – 10 December 2 Bridge St . Frome . BA11 1BB | www.blackswanarts.org.uk Open 7 days a week 10am - 4pm | FREE ENTRY Registered Charity No.292463
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» the list recommends «
Christmas Market
FOLK exhibition
The Newt, Sat 9th & Sun 10th Dec, 9am - 4.30pm, Free admission to members
Gallery at the Station Private View: Fri 1st Dec, 6 - 9pm, Free
The heady scent of spiced mulled cider will fill the air at the first ever Christmas Market weekend. Enjoy fairy-lit stalls with an array of produce and seasonal wares, a treasure trove of gifts and treats, carol singing, chestnuts roasting, fires roaring, tall tales about toads and warming hot chocolate. Membership is required to visit (special offers are now available).
The Folk exhibition celebrates Frome’s creative community, featuring a selection of 36 local illustrators covering textiles, collage, typography, printmaking and many other aspects of illustration. The launch night will feature music from Amy Jeffs and folk dancing with the amazing Selwood Bounds Morris Group.
Jazz at the Museum: John Law’s Re-Creations
Cocktails & Karaoke (WHY fundraiser)
American Museum and Gardens, Sun 17th Dec, 2.30 - 4.30pm, £15
Silk Mill, Fri 15th Dec, 7 - 11pm, £5
The idea is simple: choose some of the best known and most interesting tunes in all genres, jazz, pop, rock, folk, maybe even classical, and give every tune a different twist and create a new work out of it. These regular afternoon events feature the best in local jazz, and this quartet will be a festive highlight.
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Calling all Cliffs, bring your inner Beyoncé, crack out your Coolio and help sing the night away in an evening of festive fun hosted by Frome’s very own Cheryl Sprinkler of Mojo Moves. Christmas cocktails will get everyone on the dance floor for this great event raising money for a good cause.
» the list recommends «
www.kobiandteal.co.uk
10 JA N: 7 FEB: 13 M A R: 10 A PR: 8 M AY: 12 J U N : WINNERS
WINNERS EO FLEE DECISION T O L E AV E H O LY S P I D E R ALCARRAS
AT THE MERLIN THE ATRE W W W.FRO MEFI LM .CO.UK
REMAINING 6 FILMS FOR
£20.00
People, Lore, Music, Art, Community
Featuring Frome-based Artists, Printmakers, Illustrators, Animators and Designers
1 December–5 January Private view 1st December 6–9pm featuring live music, morris dancing, art, food and drink. Opening times 10am–4pm Weekdays & Sundays 10am–8pm Thursday–Saturday
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» the list recommends «
Santa Dash
Christmas Party
Frome Cricket Club & Old Showfield, Sun 10th Dec, 11am, Fundraiser
Millie Moon, Thu 14th Dec, 5.30 - 8pm, £10
This 4km fun run is a great way for everyone to take on a festive challenge: runners can absolutely go for a Personal best, but there’s no judgement attached to walking . . . or scooting. Everyone who pre-registers will receive a free Santa suit. A special festive family event raising funds for WHY.
Enjoy an evening of festive fun with Becki and Rachel, in the beautiful haberdashery on the hill. The night includes sewing themed party games, late night discount shopping, best handmade outfit competition, handmade gift swap, together with fizz and nibbles through the evening.
It’s Christmas, it’s sweaty, it’s…
Winter Concert Saturday 2nd December Christ Church Christchurch Street West, Frome, BA11 1EH
The Corner House The Co r n e rDecember house Saturday 16th Saturday 1 6 th D e c e m b e r 8:00pm 8.00pm Free Entry
at 4.30pm FREE ADMISSION
Free entry
Refreshments & Raffle
f facebook.com/fromeyouthchoir e youthchoirfrome@gmail.com
Loin your girds. Stomp along to your favourite troubadours, marvel at their plucking prowess, gasp at the frequency of their visits to the toilet! Sobriety is futile. Bring a smile and suspend belief – you’re in for an astonishing expletive or two….
www.thefrukes.org www.facebook.com/Fromeukuleleclub/
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» the list recommends «
Night River presents: Beth Rowley
Frome Jazz Club: Stolen Moments
St Philip and St James Church, Norton St Philip, Sat 2nd Dec, 3.30pm, £15
Christ Church, Sat 9th Dec, 3 - 5pm, Free
All ages can enjoy this winter matinee show. Beth’s vocals are simply stunning, fragile yet powerful, and she has appeared on stage with some giants of the music world including Jools Holland, Burt Bacharach, Adele and Jamie Cullum. Support is by DG Solaris, the project of musician Danny Green, and Maggie Christmas.
Frome Town Band Christmas Spectacular
Stolen Moments is a new kind of jazz event, a late Saturday afternoon interlude in the liminal space between day and evening; true down time in a beautiful church, to do nothing but enjoy exquisite modern jazz and delicious cakes. Everyone is welcome to these friendly and relaxed community events.
Christmas Market Makers’ Yard, Sat 2nd Dec, 2 - 6pm, Free
Merlin Theatre, Sat 23rd Dec, 7.30pm, £8 Enjoy an eclectic mix of music, specially selected to evoke the spirit of Christmas, played by Frome’s very own community brass band and showcasing the players of the future. The audience will also get a chance to join in a singalong selection of carols and traditional tunes. 10
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It’s a festive afternoon of Christmas shopping with stalls by some of the best local artists. Designermaker covered stalls will be lit by festoon lighting in the community yard, with smaller tables throughout the inside area. Mulled cider, music and Christmas spirit will flow freely!
Winter Wonderment
Childr e go f ree n
That festive feeling is sweeping across our Somerset estate, as plans continue apace to make winter at The Newt more magical than ever. The heady scent of spiced mulled cyder fills the air; chefs, bakers and drinks makers go all in on the flavours of the season; and the House & Garden and Farm Shop have been transformed into a treasure trove of gifts and treats. Add a vibrant programme of woodland walks, workshops and Christmas crafts, and now’s the perfect time to join us with a Membership as we celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!
Enchanted Woodland Trail – 1 December Christmas Market Weekend including St. Nicholas visit – 9 & 10 December Foraged Festive Adornments – 12, 13 & 14 December Visit our website to discover more about Newt Membership. Free entry for children (0-16 yrs) when accompanied by an adult member.
Stay . Visit . Shop
thenewtinsomerset.com @thenewtinsomerset
CHRISTMAS FAIR & FESTIVE EVENTS Friday 1st December Selwood Academy Christmas Fair, 5 - 7pm Christmas Market - Silk Mill, 6 - 8.30pm Saturday 2nd December Christmas Family Funday, Ammerdown Park, 12 - 4pm Christmas Fair, Dorothy House, Winsley, 10am - 3pm Christmas Market, Makers’ Yard, 2 - 6pm Pilton Christmas Market, Tithe Barn, 9.30 - 3.30pm A Victorian Christmas, SS Great Britain, 10am - 3pm Christmas Market, Silk Mill, 11am - 5pm Christmas Market, The Talbot Inn, Mells, 11am - 4pm Sunday 3rd December Christmas Market, Silk Mill, 11am - 4pm Friday 8th December Christmas Fayre & Light Switch On, Buckland Dinham Village Hall, 6 - 8pm Saturday 9th December Christmas Market, Village Hall, Horningsham, 11am, 2pm Christmas Market, The Newt, 9am - 8pm, Admission via membership Countdown to Christmas! West Woodlands Showground, 10am - 4pm, Free Sunday 10th December Christmas Market, The Newt, 9am - 4.30pm, Admission via membership Saturday 16th December Christmas Carols & Market, Eastcote Farm, 4 - 8pm Christmas in Wells, Market Place & Bishop’s Palace Green, Wells, 9am - 3pm
Daily through December Bath Christmas Market (until 10th), Mon - Wed, 10am - 7pm, Thu - Sat, 10am - 8pm, Sun 10am - 6pm Bath On Ice, Royal Victoria Park, from 10.30/11.45am - 10pm, £14.50 Winter Wonderland, American Museum, 10am 5pm, £15.50
Meet Father Christmas Santa’s Grotto Frome, Gouldy08, Critchill Manor Estate, 25th November - 23rd December: Wed - Sun 12 - 8pm, Mon - Sat (w/c 18th) 12 - 8pm, £7 adult, £17.50 child. Breakfast with Santa, Cordero Lounge for WHY Sunday 10th & 17th December, 9.30 - 11.30am, £12 adult, £15 child Weekends in December plus Christmas week w/c 18th: Santa Specials Steam Train, East Somerset Railway, Cranmore, 10.30am - 5.30pm, £23 adult, £22 child North Pole Grotto, Fairfield Animal Centre, Southwick Country Park, Trowbridge, 9am - 3pm, Adult £9.95, child £19.95 Storytime with Father Christmas, Stourhead, 10am - 3.20pm, Adult £19, child £15 & £9.50 admission
Father Christmas has once again asked Frome Lions & Rotary Clubs to assist him when visiting Frome and surrounding villages this Christmas. Look out for his festive float passing through the streets of Frome and surrounding villages from Friday 1st through to Friday 22nd December. More info: Facebook/SantaFrome
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REBECCA CAINE DIVIDING DAY With Nathan Martin, Piano
WEDNESDAY 20 DECEMBER 8:00pm | Doors 7:30pm Tickets: £21.50 inc’ booking fee
Jacks Lane Frome BA11 3NL cooperhall.org
‘The remarkable Canadian soprano Rebecca Caine is outstanding’ The Observer
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vallis farm An inclusive home for learning
V
allis Farm is a beautiful, grounding space for learning, creativity and exchanging skills and ideas. With nine acres of land and an impressive farmhouse, it’s a place to both grow and relax. Hosting an evolving collective of highly experienced craftspeople, compassionate educators and committed stewards of the land, guests are invited to come and learn, explore, create and feast. Looking to buy an experience for a loved one this Christmas? (please, no more stuff!). Vallis Farm’s courses complement its ethos of creativity and care for the land. Upcoming classes this Christmas include kraut making, willow weaving, herbal gift making, pottery with resident potter Somerset Ceramics, and much more. Workshops in 2024 include scything, forest gardening, pilates, qigong, herbal remedies with Radix Herbal Hub and foraging with Hej Gro. Various spaces, both indoors and out, offer opportunities for you to learn, grow and practise your skills. The farm is keen to host more fundraising events like their recent ‘Fire and Folk’ afternoon for cancer counselling charity We Hear You (WHY), when a fireside meal made with locallysourced ingredients was followed by music and storytelling. Look out for more of these and other fantastic foodie events in 2024. Hosting local artisans and welcoming community groups are central to the farm’s ethos of being of benefit to the community. Radix Herbal Hub is a herbal medicine dispensary that also offers community medicine-making days. The farm’s old stables are currently being converted into affordable spaces for more artisans to call home. The upcoming Forest School will create an engaging educational opportunity for local children, and this winter will see the setup of a community-run orchard, involving volunteers in planning, planting, harvesting and maintenance.
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C o ve r S t o r y
“We exist to benefit the community and public.” Tamsin Westbrook, Estates Manager
© Dave Watts Photography
“With our veg boxes, we champion local food and growing.”
Not to be confused with their good neighbours, Vallis Veg, Vallis Farm also maintains a market garden, supplying local residents with carbonneutral ingredients via a veg box scheme. Containing only hyperlocal produce (no food miles) and grown without chemicals or additional light and heat sources, veg boxes are packagingfree wherever possible. Wonky or leftover veg is preserved, so you may receive a jar of pickle in your box as an item during the hungry gap - this means there’s no need to look further afield to provide customers with their food. The market garden is maintained by a team of apprentices who are working towards a qualification in horticulture - and by a lovely group of volunteers. Weekly and bi-weekly boxes are available and can be ordered via the website.
Visit us! Vallis Open House is a free event (Sunday 10th December, 10am - 4pm) where anyone can drop in to hear what’s on offer in 2024. Tours of the farm will happen throughout the day, showing behind the scenes of the beautiful house and extensive gardens. To hire spaces for classes, events or business collaborations, please email Business Administration Manager, klaire@vallisfarm.co.uk For more information on veg boxes and all bookings visit www.vallisfarm.co.uk @vallis_farm
The farm seeks to offer more folk the opportunity to work locally in 2024, delivering classes, outdoor learning, dining events, retreats, nature, book talks and more. If anyone has any ideas they’d like to discuss, the farm would love to hear from you! C o ve r S t o r y
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Festive Shopping in Frome celebrating independent small businesses
Popicoq
Sherlock & Pages
15 Vicarage Street, Wed - Sat, 10.30am - 5.30pm, Sunday Market Days 10am - 3pm Popicoq on Vicarage Street is an eclectic haven of decorative antiques, vintage curiosities and treasures, pre-loved clothing and jewellery. Originally from Somerset, Dulcie lived in Paris for 26 years and works internationally on theatrical productions of all types. She is currently making costumes for Spirited Away at the London Coliseum and also for The Little Matchgirl and Happier Tales by Wise Children, here in Frome. So, when she’s not working in Popicoq, the chances are she’s behind the scenes, stitching in her workshop! @popicoq @dulciebest
2 Catherine Hill, Now Open: Tue - Sat, 10am - 5pm Frome has a beautiful new book and gift shop on Catherine Hill, run by Luke Sherlock and Agathe Cavicchioli. The shop caters for adults as well as children, and is focussed on their shared passions for nature, heritage and the arts. After a decade working in climate action, the couple hope Sherlock & Pages can be a fresh way for them to engage with like-minded individuals, raise awareness for all they care about and contribute to the place they call home. www.sherlockandpages.com
Made in Frome Silk Mill, Sat 16th Dec, 10am - 4pm The Made in Frome Christmas Fair will be a day full of great food and exceptional gifts. Find the perfect present from some of Frome’s most talented and interesting makers, including Scatter Jewellery, Emma Chapman Pottery, Dark Moon Chocolates, Hibi Botanics, West Valley Guitars, Alizarin Studio and many more. Lucy of Pomona Supper Club will be providing a selection of tasty festive food and drinks, as well as selling her utterly incredible Christmas cakes, all from her beautiful vintage caravan. Frome’s very own all-female Morris dancers, the Bounds of Selwood, will be bringing their joyous energy, performed to a backdrop of traditional music. 16
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@emmachapmanpotter
Held at the beautiful Silk Mill, Made in Frome is the perfect way to find some festive cheer, as well as the perfect present.
Gentle, effective, non-invasive, therapy for aches, pains, restricted movement, injuries, stress & many other problems. Janie Godfrey Frome Bowen Clinic 01373 452 422 w w w.bowenclinicfrome.com
Helping you cut through the confusion and get honest advice about aesthetics. Independent Nurse Practitioner in Frome and Bath Clinics. Emma Goldsmith | thebabingtonclinic.com
@thebabingtonclinic
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» CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE «
Angel Decoration by Jo Lucksted Black Swan Arts ShoP, £18
The ZigZag Soap Dish (six colour mixes available) Kobi & Teal £16 each
SHOP LOCAL
Ride Free A3 Art Print by Luke Holcombe Of Cabbages and Kings, £36
’We Three Beans’ Christmas Coffee 250g Loud Mouth £9.75
Geo signet ring Christina Oswin from £95
Greek Vase Brass Bookmark by Literary Emporium WHITTOX GALLERY £8.50 Paintbrush Necklace Sonya Bennet Black Swan Arts Shop £68
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» CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE «
24-25 Catherine Hill, Frome, BA11 1BY www.milliemoonshop.co.uk
Give The Gift Of Happy Skin Hibi Gift Boxes Available
Available at Honey On The Hill, Oakville Naturals, The Frome Independent Market (on the bridge) and online www.hibibotanics.com | @hibibotanics
now stocked by C H A R L E S H A R T- J E W E L L E R S ¦ C H E A P S T R E E T ¦ F R O M E ¦ T E L 0 1 3 7 3 4 6 2 0 8 9
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TUE 5 Open Mic Night The Griffin, 7.30 - 9.30pm, Free Frome Sofar Sounds Secret location, 7.30pm, £14
FROME TOWN BAND SAT 23
Mr Chr River 7.30 -
WED 6
THU 7
F
Frome Stitch Club River House at Black Swan Arts 7 - 10pm, £4.50
Sleigh Ride concert Christ Church, 1.15 - 2.10pm, Free
Luc The (til Portw
Frome Artists Café The Three Swans, 7.30pm, Free
Still Sisters Gin Tasting Experience American Museum & Gardens, 6 - 8pm, £42
Iain Ballamy Bar Lotte, 7.30pm, Free
Elf - The Musical (till 16 Dec) Merlin Theatre, 7pm, £10
Night River presents: Alan Power HydeAway, 8pm, £12
Anim(al)ism: A Dance Journey with Helena Sophia Equniox Silk Mill, 7 - 8.30pm, £15
TUE 12
WED 13
THU 14
F
Open Mic Night The Griffin, 7pm, Free
T’Barry Bingo 23 Bath St, 7.30pm, Free
Cho & Wir
Steeleye Span Cheese & Grain, 7.30pm, £31.50
Black Eyed Dogs (Trio) Bar Lotte, 7.30pm, Free
Late Night Shopping & Christmas Party Millie Moon, 5.30 - 8pm, £10
Bull Mill Arts Bazaar Crockerton, 10am - 5pm, Free
THE LITTLE MATCH GIRL 8-23 DEC
Frome Geek Gaming 23 Bath St, 6.30 - 10pm, £3 Retro Social The Awesome Studio, 7.30 - 10pm, £7 Celtic & Transatlantic Sessions Lamb & Fountain, 8pm, Free
T’BARRY BINGO WED 13
Por Givin
A Ba Sot
Dre The S
Coc WHY Silk M
The Roo The B
Gui Glo 23 Ba
MON 18
TUE 19
WED 20
THU 21
F
Children’s Songwriting Workshop with Jazz Morley Vallis Farm, 10am - 2pm, £37.50
Christmas Felt Art Family Workshop American Museum & Gardens 10 - 11.30am, £25
Elf Filmhaus @ Hauser & Wirth Somerset 11am, Free
Sladest: The Ultimate Slade Tribute The Tree House, 7pm, £14.50
Fest Ext Mem
T’Barry Bingo – T’Xmas Special! 23 Bath St, 7.30pm, Free
Cocktails, Curries & Carols Roth Bar, 8pm, £35
Nut The L
Celtic & Transatlantic Sessions The Griffin, 8pm, Free
Rebecca Caine Dividing Day Cooper Hall, 8 - 10pm, £21.50
Gor Aft 23 Ba £8 or
Iain Ballamy Bar Lotte, 7.30pm, Free
MON 25 Frome Big Christmas Get-Together St Catharine’s Hall, Cricket Club & Key Centre, 10.30am - 12.30pm, Free
ELF THE MUSICAL 7 - 16 DEC
The The S
WED 27
THU 28
Trad Jazz The Three Swans, 8 - 10pm, Free
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (till 3 Jan) Memorial Theatre, 4pm, £15 Soul gazing meditation The Good Heart, 7.30pm, Free
ng um & 16
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on
SUN 3
Christmas Fair Silk Mill, 6 - 8.30pm, Free
Christmas Market Makers’ Yard, 2 - 6pm, Free
Private View: Folk Gallery at the Station, 6 - 9pm, Free
WHY Winter Wonderland Orchardleigh Estate, 7pm - 2am, £45
Santa & Elf Run Dorothy House, Winsley 9.30 - 2pm, £15
Tree of Remembrance service Rook Lane, 6.30pm, Free
That’ll Be The Day Christmas Show Memorial Theatre, 7.30pm, £27
Mr Teds’ Big Fat Christmas Quiz River House at Black Swan Arts, 7.30 - midnight, £8 p/p
The Frome Independent Town Centre, 10am - 3pm, Free Christmas Fair Silk Mill, 11am - 4pm, Free
The Lanky Divas The Sun Inn, 9 - 11pm, Free
Live music: Fathers Bar Lotte, 3.30pm, Free
FRI 8
SAT 9
SUN 10
Lucky Chance presents: The Little Matchgirl (till 23 Dec) Portway Methodist Church, 7.30pm, £15
Frome Jazz Club presents Stolen Moments Christ Church, 3 - 5pm, Free
The Giant Shepton Flea Market Royal Bath & West Showground 9.30am - 4pm, £5
Port Tasting Givino, 6.45 - 9pm, £25
J S Bach Christmas Oratorio Holy Trinity Church, 7pm, £15
A Bass Christmas with Sota 23 Bath St, 9pm - 2.30am, £10
Open Mic Night 23 Bath St, 7pm, Free
Drew Hall Duo The Sun Inn, 9 - 11pm, Free
Xmas Discwo The Station , 8pm - 2am, £10
FRI 15
SAT 16
SUN 17
Chocolat Filmhaus @ Hauser & Wirth Somerset, 7pm, Free
Family Xmas Party 23 Bath St, 1 - 7pm, Free
Cocktails and Karaoke WHY fundraiser Silk Mill, 7pm, £5
Raving Rascals: Christmas Special Rook Lane Chapel, 4.30 - 7.30pm, £4
Jazz at the Museum: John Law’s Re-Creations American Museum & Gardens 2.30 - 4.30pm, £15
The Vaults Folk & Roots Nights The Bennet Centre, 7.30 - 10.30pm, £5
Step into Xmas with absolutely Elton Frome Town Football Club 7pm, £10
Guilty Pleasures: Glow Party 23 Bath St, 9pm - 2.30am, £5 adv
Elf Christmas Screening Eastcote Farm, 8.30pm, £5
FRI 22
SAT 23
Festive Abba Extravaganza Memorial Hall, Rode, 7.30 - 11pm, £12
Moo and Two Carols, with Still Life Gin Catherine Hill, 4.30pm, Free
Nuts ‘n’ Bolts Xmas Bash The Loft, 23 Bath St, 9pm, £6
Frome Town Band’s Christmas Spectacular Merlin Theatre, 7.30pm, £8
The Cleyhill Stompers The Sun Inn, 9 - 11pm, Free Gorilla Tactics Xmas Afterparty 23 Bath St, 11pm - 2.30am £8 or £28 combo
Three Wise Fools Wesley Methodist, 10.30am, Free Frome Santa Dash Cricket Club & Old Showfield 11am, Fundraiser Flash Harry The Cornerhouse, 8 - 10pm, Free
Cara Dillon: Upon A Winter’s Night Cheese & Grain, 7.30pm, £25 Jazz with Graham Dent & Jerry Crozier-Cole The Cornerhouse, 7.30 - 9.30pm, Free Nunney Acoustic Cafe, 1-7pm
BassBeatz present: The Crown, Keyford, 8pm - midnight The Johnson’s The Sun Inn, 9 - 11pm, Free
HAUSER & WIRTH FESTIVE EVENTS
SNOW WHITE THE MUSICAL 28 DEC - 3 JAN
sun 31 Gatsby Night The Mill at Rode, 6pm, £80 New Year’s Eve Party with BassBeatz Cordero Lounge, 7.30pm, £20 NYE Extravaganza Roth Bar, Hauser & Wirth Somerset 7pm, £95 New Year’s Eve Eight Stony Street, 8pm, £75
» EVENTS CALENDAR «
c
SAT 2
» WHAT’S ON DECEMBER 2023 «
AND T 23
FRI 1
» CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE «
Gin gift pack Still Sisters £30
Vintage Ruby & Diamond Cluster Ring Charles Hart Jewellers £2000
Ravenous For Books subscription Winstone’s Hunting Raven Books, Prices vary
Machine sewing kits Millie Moon from £15 Ed Clark: The Big Sweep, Hauser & Wirth Somerset, £52 Christmas Street Concertina Card Kobi & Teal £4.80
Mini Strawberry Hoops by Wolf and Moon Of Cabbages and Kings, £53
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» CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE «
20A Cheap Street . Frome . BA11 1BN . 01373 472505 Christina Oswin Jewellery @christinaoswin christinaoswin.co.uk
REPAIRS . REMODELLING . COMMISSIONS . JEWELLERY CLASSES Recycled metals . Fairtrade gemstones . Ocean Diamonds
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» CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE «
Voucher, Still Sisters, from £22
Hibi Glow Facial Oil & Plump Hydrating Serum HIBI Botanics £40
Ed Clark Plate Hauser & Wirth Somerset, £240
Handmade cabochon earrings Popicoq, £8
Guitar Building and Maintenance Courses West Valley Guitars From £200
Handmade Gold and silver bracelet Marchbank Jewellery £380 The Newt Garden Membership Card from £85
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ars
» CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE «
Festive Blooms Visit our website and select from various gifts delivered to the door with a smile www.thelittleflowerco.co.uk or call 01373 467726 / 01985 216570
FREE PARKING next to Tesco Express
94 Forest Road, Frome
G i f t G ui d e
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» CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE «
The Raven Annemarie Blake OWL, £45
Wendell Berry Poetry Collection Sherlock & Pages,
Gift Voucher FROMEFILM.CO.UK
£8.99
£20 Toadstool Earrings, Joanna Watson Glass
Sleeping Queen
WHY Gallery
Hunter + Collector
£27
Owl £395
Create your own gin or wine hamper Givino from £20
Christmas kits Millie Moon from £6
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G i f t G ui d e
» CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE «
Sirius Gold Star Necklace ( Gold plate) Marchbank Jewellery £45
Festive Table Centre The Little Flower co £50
Hibi All Over Balm & Exfoliating Face Mask HIBI Botanics £34
Handmade cabochon bracelet Popicoq £18
IDA Orbit Earrings Marchbank Jewellery £45
Book Subscriptions Sherlockandpages.com, From £45
Hand sewing kids kits Millie Moon from £5
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F E ST I V E F U N . C A N A P E S . C O C K TA I L S . M U S I C F R E E L I V E M U S I C O N W E D N E S D AY & S U N D AY N I G H T S
M O N D AY T O F R I D AY : 4 P M - 1 1 P M S AT U R D AY : 1 2 P M - 1 1 P M S U N D AY : 4 P M - 1 1 P M 0 1 373 3 0 1 0 6 8 | 6 A BA D COX , F RO M E , BA 1 1 3 B Q BISTROLOT TEFROME .CO.UK /BAR-LOT TE /
400 + Wines 60+ Vegan Wines 30+ Fortified Wines
40+ Gins Christmas Gifts Tastings & Tapas Christmas Gin / Wine Hamplers
Tuesday - Friday 10am - 5.30pm | Saturday 10am - 4pm WWW.GIVINO.CO.UK 0330 056 2995 R18 Marshall Way, Commerce Park, Frome, BA11 2FE Follow directions from the Budgens roundabout.
FESTIVE SUPPER CLUB S AT 9 T H DECE M B E R ST MARYS CHURCH INNOX HILL S AT 2 3 R D DECE M B E R THE CLOISTERS, BENNET T CENTRE
SUPPER BY CANDLELIGHT W E LCO M E F O R D R I N K S F R O M 6:15 PM S U P P E R S E R V E D 7 : 15 P M - 11P M £55 PER PERSON
Contact Lucy on: 07500484845 pomonasupperclub@yahoo.com | pomonasupperclub.co.uk
GIVE THE GIFT OF GIN We have a selection of gift vouchers, bottles of gin, gin liqueurs & more. Visit our website or pop into our shop.
Unit 2, Ashton Park, Handlemaker Road, Frome, BA11 4RW 01373 474647 | www.stillsisters.co.uk
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Seasonal afternoon tea Christmas hampers Grazing boxes Party boards Foodie gifts To order: 07968 753632 kerenhayden@gmail.com Find us on:
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THE GREEN ROOM 100% ORGANIC
100% VEGAN
Wines • Beers • Cider • Spirits • Liqueurs
Pievalta Verdicchi
Can Axartell
Petit Roubie Tannat
£13.90
£18.30
£13.40
SENSIBLE PRICES | GENEROUS DISCOUNTS | WINE TASTING 4 Cork Street, Frome, Somerset BA11 1BL www.thegreenroom.me | shop@thegreenroomwines.com
01373 228220
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Fo o d & D r i n k
AT RUDGE
Newly renovated, independent country pub with 5 beautiful letting rooms and large dining room. Serving elevated pub classic, generous Sunday roasts, real ales & ciders open Wednesday - Sunday. @fullmooninnrudge fullmooninn 01373 830936 office@fullmooninn.co.uk www.fullmooninn.co.uk
Now taking CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS
COFFE E . TE A . VINYL
O PE N E V E RY DAY 2 7 C AT H E R I N E H I L L . F R O M E . S O M E R S E T . BA1 1 1 BY
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FROME CHRISTMAS GET TOGETHER Everyone deserves a special Christmas
The events are funded solely through donations from the local community, so please look out for the bucket collectors at the town’s festive events such as the Christmas Light Switch-on and the Frome Independent December market. There will be a team of volunteers at each venue on Christmas Day, and people are still needed for a variety of roles such as driving, delivering meals, talking to guests and tidying up. Sign-up forms for volunteers are available on the website.
V
olunteers in Frome are organising free events on Christmas Day for anyone who would like some company. There are three different venues; St Catharines Parish Hall on Park Road, Frome Cricket Club and The Frome Key Centre between 10.30am - 12.30pm. All guests will receive a warm welcome, conversation, entertainment and refreshments, as well as a festive meal and gifts to take home. Since 2011, volunteers in Frome have come together to organise a special event for anyone who would like some company on Christmas Day. With the support of local businesses and community groups, the day has been made special for hundreds of people over the last twelve years through donations of food, drink, carol singing, gifts, transport and festive fun times. Home deliveries of meals and gifts will also be available as an option for anyone unable to attend in person. This free event is open to anyone who would like company, there are no complicated criteria or judgements. Anyone who would like to come on Christmas Day should book their space in advance by filling out a Guest Form available at Frome Library before Friday 15th December.
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Any local businesses who would like to get involved should email Di at fromechristmas@gmail.com www.bigchristmasgettogether.org “Christmas can be a challenging time for lots of people for many different reasons. To be able to welcome the whole community together on this special day is unique and inspiring for everyone involved.” Volunteer
LOOKING FOR A NEW NIGHT OUT IN FROME?
growing up awesome! Rediscover what made a nostalgic evening of ng oyi Play and party, enj old school board games classic games consoles, es. and throwback dance tun i Lungi Babas, Burrito Bo Delicious food served by nds on Goldeneye & Rye Bakery; ba�le frieor chomp a burrito whilst whilst sipping a cocktail, plunk. you smash friends at Ker ones. Conversa�on is Bring friends or make newg Mario Karts! easy when you are playin Adults only - 10pm Every Thursday 7.30pm
RUMBLEevery Friday & don't miss RETRO RUMBLE for kids, teens & families.
THE AWESOME STUDIO - FROME -
STUDIO FOR HIRE + YOGA, ToDDLER PLAY, STORYTELLING, TALKS, FILMs & FEASTS, MARKETS AND MUCH MORE!
BOOK AT SUPERPIRATES.co.UK
SUPER PIRATES T O T A L LY AW E S O M E E V E N T S
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Wise Children Theatre Company Lucky Chance, Lucky Frome
T
he old Portway Methodist Church has been given a new lease of life as home to the international touring theatre company, Wise Children. Since 2018, the company have produced critically acclaimed original productions which have been seen by 240,000 people in 20 cities worldwide. Alongside groundbreaking theatre shows, they run the School for Wise Children, a unique professional development programme training the next generation of diverse, independent theatre makers.
The Little Matchgirl is now totally sold out for its run in December, but there are still tickets available for the next new show, Blue Beard, at Theatre Royal Bath, 2nd – 10th February 2024. theatreroyal.org.uk/events/blue-beard/
Over the past year, the church has been refurbished, repurposed and renamed ‘The Lucky Chance’. It’s now a permanent base for the company where they can experiment, rehearse, share work and run the School. This Christmas, it will also become a temporary, 60-seat venue for the first time. The intimate space will come to life with a show full of warmth, wit and wonder. The Lucky Chance will host a magical retelling of The Little Matchgirl and Happier Tales, directed by the company’s Artistic Director Emma Rice. In tandem with the new production, Wise Children has launched an access initiative for schools, with performances being offered free to local Frome primary schools.
“Like a child at Christmas, I am excited and thankful to finally be sharing our new home, The Lucky Chance, with the public.” Emma Rice
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URQUHART & HUNT
cushions & blinds - My skill & advice - Your fabric - We’ll produce wondeful results 07779951691 anna-design.uk
Landscape Design . Ecological Restoration
RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2022 - Gold Medal & Best in Show Garden Designers of the Year 2022 - House & Garden Lulu Urquhart and Adam Hunt set out on a landscape design partnership 18 years ago, rooting their practice in a shared passion for romantic planting schemes, ecological harmony, applied horticulture, authentic craftsmanship and outstanding design.
@urquhart_hunt 01373 888 720 www.urquharthunt.com
SW Plumbing We provide a full range of services from installation, service and repair of full central heating systems and boilers through to bathroom, kitchen and water softener installations. Call us now for a FREE no-obligation quote!
southwest-plumbing.co.uk 01373 301379 / 07974 075221
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Not all veterinary practices are the same We are available to care for your pets, horses and animals 24/7 If your pet is overnight with us, they are never left alone Garston vets - a truly independent approach to animal care for over 100 years.
Frome
01373 452225
Melksham
01225 617779
Trowbridge
01225 754021
Warminster
01985 213350
www.garstonvets.co.uk
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Ho u s e & Ho m e
Westbury
01373 301448
MY FROME
Bistro Lotte with Sam and the kids, finishing the day off with an amazing gig at the Cheese and Grain. I love the river walk to Mells from Great Elm along the old Fussell Iron works, with lunch in the Talbot Inn, or a big sky walk up on White Sheet Hill near Stourhead. I recommend the antique and flea markets that happen at the Bath and West Showground near Shepton Mallet and another that happens about once a month in West Woodlands.
CARA DILLON Singer/Songwriter
Moving to Frome was a pin on a map back in early 2002. We wanted our home to be fairly near to Bristol Airport so I could get back to the North of Ireland often, and fairly near to Sam’s (my husband’s) family in West Devon. When I return from being away, I feel like I’m stepping back into a little movie populated with a community that is familiar and vibrant. It might sound a bit corny, but I love it! My perfect day would be pottering about the town in the sunshine without anywhere to be at any particular time: meeting friends for coffee, browsing the shops for some vintage bits and bobs on Catherine Hill, bumping into people and catching up without having to keep one eye on the time. Maybe a scoot up to Lark Vintage at Whiterow Farm Shop in Beckington, not to mention a proper root around the charity shops. Then dinner in
My favourite cafés are Moo and Two, the River House (for breakfast) and La Strada (for people watching). For shops, I’d have to say, Poot and the Dandy Lion for really interesting fashion finds, Hunting Raven Books, just because they have the best book selection and usually get anything I need by the next day. For pubs, the Three Swans, and my favourite restaurants are Bistro Lotte, Eight Stony Street with friends or Castello’s for pizza with the kids. Not many people know that I was asked (twice) to represent Ireland in the Eurovision song contest. I have been very busy indeed recently. I have recorded a new album and written my first book (called Coming Home). Both are due to be released/ published in February 2024. I’ve spent the autumn touring the new material with a band throughout the UK, including an amazing homecoming show in Belfast’s Grand Opera House. It was such a proud moment. It’s by far the most personal work I’ve ever done, and the audiences have been so engaged, it’s been overwhelming! Family, family and family makes me happy! Ever since Sam and I moved to Frome nearly 22 years ago, we have seen it evolve into a place full of interesting individuals who want to make a real difference. We’ve met so many incredible creatives here, and I’m proud to call it my home from home. Upon a Winters Night Cheese & Grain, Sun 17 Dec, 7.30pm
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My Frome
Move to your dream home IN FROME THIS NEW YEAR
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What our residents say... The outdoor surroundings are stunning but we’ve also got a super place we call home with a contemporary style and impressive eco-credentials which are important to us. - Sophie, The Old Printworks Resident
M A R K E T I N G S U I T E O P E N D A I LY 1 0 A M T O 5 P M acornpropertygroup.org 01373 888 303 An Acorn Property Group led development in conjunction with London & County. Images used for illustrative purposes only. Prices correct at time of print.
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elf storage for your xmas presents