Community-minded Lewis Gibbs at Catherine Hill’s ‘Dandylion’ recently approached me about two things – his desire to learn more about the people behind the businesses in Frome and how to best use his new battered Chesterfield sofa. ‘Spotlight’ was born; a look behind the doors, window displays, counters and glamour of Frome’s businesses of all kinds.
Many of us frequent these places or use their services, but do we really know the faces in the background?
Over the coming weeks we’ll put the Chesterfield out on the hill where we’ll be photographing, questioning and sharing the stories of anyone interested in being involved. Lewis has already wriggled his Chesterfield out onto the hill more times than he’d have wanted to, navigating awkward doorposts and dashing it back indoors when the heavens opened, and traffic backed up! You’ve got to admire the man’s determination to get the bums of our esteemed local business owners onto his sofa. We’ve made a good start on this new Humans of Frome – Spotlight on series……here’s the first of many…!
Human of Frome – Spotlight on Ellen Porteous
What business are you involved with? The River House
Why did you choose Frome? Back in 2014 I was running a local pub in Frome, and often hungover, meaning I was always looking for the perfect hangover hangout; a cafe that served banging brunches with epic coffee and boozey Bloody Marys… Alas there was no such thing at the time, so there was no option but to start one.
With the support of the community I grew up in, and some incredibly passionate baristas in tow (who are still with me at The River House today) it helped make my first business venture far less scary. That, and the relentless drinking, gave me the confidence to do it.
Favourite thing about Frome? Me!! But seriously, any of the local events and big Frome nights such as Mells Daffodil Fair, the Christmas Extravaganza or Carnival night, they’re the nostalgic highlights of my Fromie calendar. Plus another excuse to drink.
Little known fact about you, your business or Frome. I’ve been going to Glastonbury every year since the early 90s. If you go up to the Stone Circle on the Wednesday evening and shout FROOOOME, you’re guaranteed to hear a good 20 people cheer back at you. We’ve got plans to take The River House on the festival road in the coming years.
