NATIONAL treasure, Alan Titchmarsh is coming to Frome next month with his show ‘Trowel and Error – Tales from my life on earth’.
The show promises to showcase all of Alan’s talents wrapped up in a bundle of ‘glorious’ anecdotes and enlightening tales from his varied and expansive life and career.
Ahead of his appearance at the Memorial Theatre on Thursday 20th February, Alan took the time to talk to Frome Times about his long forgotten connection to Frome, his ‘unexpected’ talents, and what he thinks about the town’s wildflower and tree planting projects.
Have you been to Frome before?
“I think I came to Frome once with the BBC’s Songs of Praise. And I definitely know how to say ‘Frome’. I do have a connection with Frome that goes way back – my books used to be printed at Butler and Tanner. I really like that part of the world, the area is blessed with brilliant wildlife and it’s a part of the world that I love going to.”
What can people expect from your show?
“The unexpected! Honestly, I hope people are entertained, amused and leave informed. I share stories about people I’ve met, from Nelson Mandela to the Queen, and stories about places I’ve been. And I hope people leave with a spring in their step, thinking that it really is worth dabbling in soil.”
The summary of your show says that you will be showcasing all your talents – what talents will you be sharing?
“Both of them! Seriously, there might be a bit of poetry – which can be funny and touching. I’m not sure I’ll sing at them – I’m known for often bursting into song – so there might be a few little tunes thrown in.”
Frome has pledged to be carbon neutral by 2030 and one initiative introduced this year was ‘Wild about Frome’ – a scheme to leave green spaces to go wild. What are your thoughts on this?
“It’s essential. I was involved in the Plantlife campaign, which appealed to local councils to stop cutting roadside verges – it saves money and gives wildlife and most importantly insects somewhere to live.
“We all need to be aware of how we can help. If you are going to take part in an Extinction Rebellion march, I hope that you have first taken up your block-paved front garden and started growing some plants. We can all do our bit.”
Do you have any tips for someone wanting to do their bit?
“It’s very easy to feel powerless and not do anything to help, but the planet starts right outside your front door – take a look at your garden. Test the soil. Is your garden sunny? Dry? Find out what plants suit your space and get gardening.”
Frome has also gone ‘Wild about trees’ and has pledged to plant thousands of trees by March 2022. What do you think?
“We should all be planting trees – it’s a given. I’ve spent my life planting trees – in fact I’m in the middle of planting evergreen oaks, and I’ll be getting back to work when I finish talking to you. It’s important that we plant trees where we know they can survive – it’s wonderful that people are wanting to plant more, but the trees must be looked after and planted somewhere where they can grow to maturity. Plant well and responsibly. ‘Wild about Trees’ – I’m right behind it!”
You are often referred to as the nation’s head gardener – but what is your gardening weakness? Are there any areas for improvement?
“As a gardener you are always learning – there are millions of plants in the world. In fact, I recently visited a garden in Suffolk run by friends of mine and came back with a list of plants that I have not grown before – and I’m excited to work my way through that list. Gardening is a constant learning process.”
And finally, what do you have to say to anyone who is thinking about coming to your show?
“Come and be entertained! The evening has a gardening and countryside theme and I will be telling all kinds of stories. Enjoy an evening of good company, get some gardening hints and tips, I’ll be answering questions – and have a good night out!”
Alan’s show comes to the Frome Memorial Theatre on Thursday 20th February. Tickets are available from the Memorial Theatre box office open Monday to Saturday (9.30am – 1pm) Call 01373 462795 or visit: www.fmt.website