FROME marked the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee last week with a celebration at the Showfield site, which included the official unveiling of the newly-installed Blossom Circle and stones. In the evening, Frome’s own Valentine Lamp was lit and became the town’s Jubilee beacon.
Street parties were also held in Frome and surrounding villages, with communities coming together to mark 70 years since the Queen’s coronation. On Frome’s trains, station staff member, Tony, who was dressed for the occasion, handed out free cake.
Frome Town Council say, “A joyous afternoon was had by all at the unveiling of the jubilee plaques at the Old Showfield in honour of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The event took place on Thursday 2nd June, at the beginning of the special Jubilee bank holiday weekend.
“The ‘Blossom Circle’ centre piece, which consists of accessible pathways, new benches and feature stones, had been chosen as the winner of The People’s Budget Jubilee. They were really well received, with many people with buggies, wheelchairs and mobility scooters able to enjoy the circle for the first time.
“With the sun shining, over 1,500 visitors over the course of the festivities enjoyed the newly-designed accessible blossom circle, with many picnickers indulging delicious treats from The Crumpeteers, Tony’s Ice Creams, Flow on the Go and the fabulous tea ladies raising money for Active and In Touch.
“Mayor of Frome, cllr Sara Butler, in one of her first official duties, revealed the recently placed stones, which were donated by Angela Yeoman and inscribed by Curtis Ilott.”
Cllr Sara Butler said, “What an amazing afternoon, it was lovely to see everyone come out and enjoy the wonderful space at the Old Showfield. Special thanks go to the brilliant town rangers who had developed the area for today, and the discovery group who helped them, and of course Frome Town Council staff and all the volunteers who gave up their bank holiday to put on this great event.”
“With relaxing jazz from Dandelion Blue, families enjoyed the outdoor games, and the unveiling of the jubilee plaques was brought to order by the town crier with his proclamation to the Queen. Many residents collected their saplings as 70 trees were given away and will be planted in gardens around Frome as part of the Queen’s Jubilee canopy, tiny trees were given away and Buggingham palace was in pride of place, all opposite the beautiful blossom circle.
“The Queen and her corgis wowed the crowds, courtesy of Rare Species, with her majesty even trying out the dog agility. Tree expert, Julian Hight, treated the visitors to the Showfield to a tree talk about the many tree species, the centre piece of the circle, the Windsor oak having been sourced by him and planted prior to the event.
“Special thanks are extended to the litter warriors and the Rotary clubs of Frome who also helped on the day and Women’s Shed for all the wonderful bunting.
“The evening saw the lighting of the Valentine’s Lamp as Frome’s Jubilee “beacon”. Hosted by the mayor, the small event saw the town crier with his unique address, followed by Tony Beauchamp the piper and bugler Kirstie, from Frome Town Band – both had learned their respective jubilee pieces and played them to the crowd. Reg Ling, the curator of the lamp, then lit the “beacon” and raised a toast, with a very personal tribute to the Queen.”
