Frome awarded ‘Walkers Welcome’ status

Frome has been officially recognised as a welcoming town for walkers.

Joining over 100 towns, including nearby Bradford-on-Avon, Cheddar, Gillingham, Corsham and Keynsham, Frome has been accredited by the national ‘Walkers Are Welcome’ committee.  With muddy boots and heavy bags, some walkers can be unsure if hotels, pubs, cafes or shops will accept them. The countrywide initiative ‘Walkers are Welcome’ launched in 2007 to change this perspective by promoting walking in areas with something different to offer.

Pepita Collins, chair of Walkers are Welcome in Frome as well as the Cheese and Grain said, “This accreditation is something the people in the town can benefit from, but also a great business opportunity for the town.”

There are many benefits for communities and businesses who embrace walkers including well-maintained paths, a boost in footfall and an increase in local spending. This means that everyone wins – visitors, residents and the local economy.

Councillor Tricia Golinski said, “We are absolutely delighted to receive Walkers are Welcome status.  Anything that gets people out and about our beautiful town is a good thing and I am pleased to have been able to support the steering group.  The walks on the web page are a great start and we encourage people to send in their own Frome walks.”

For local accommodation providers and organisations who are keen to encourage walkers to stay the night, stop for a drink or bite to eat, there is a ‘Walkers are Welcome’ badge. The new website www. FromeWalkersareWelcome.org, is currently under development and will have a variety of downloadable local walks, as well as links to the many local walking groups in Frome.

If anyone wants to know more or if you’re a business who would like to display the ‘Walkers are Welcome’ sticker, please contact Les Stather at info@frome towncouncil.gov.uk