A vibrant street party will enliven Frome town centre tomorrow evening as part of the annual Frome Carnival, following the successful granting of a temporary event notice (TEN).
The carnival, a highlight of the Wessex Grand Prix circuit of Somerset carnivals, will see a colourful procession fill the streets from 7pm on September 26. This year, the event gains an extra dimension with a street party organised by local businessman Matthew Steadman, featuring a variety of activities throughout the day at the Westway shopping centre.
Somerset Council confirmed approval of the licence after a virtual hearing, marking a special addition to the 40th anniversary of the first Wessex circuit carnival.
Set just outside Ellenbray Toy Shop in The Old Library on Westway-a walkway connecting the Market Place to the Cheese & Grain over the River Frome-the street party will offer engaging experiences for attendees.
The event will be divided into three key parts. From 11am to 3pm, teenagers aged 13 to 18 can participate in a street art and graffiti workshop led by the School of Graff, with guidance from local artist Tommy Vandalist. Participants will collaborate to create a vibrant mural on the shop’s roller shutter. Those interested in joining the workshop are encouraged to register in advance via [email protected].
Following the workshop, a DJ set performed by young local talent will entertain the crowd from 3pm to 5pm. The evening continues with a dance gathering featuring local DJs from 5pm until 10pm.
Throughout the day, stewards will operate an information tent, providing a welfare point, opportunities to contribute to the Frome Carnival Charities Association, and a suggestions box for future event ideas. Stewardship, including oversight by Mr Steadman himself, will ensure effective crowd management and appropriate sound levels during the music sessions.
Mr Steadman brings considerable experience to the event, having previously helped organise major occasions such as the Together for Palestine concert at Wembley Stadium, the House Against Hate anti-racism rave in Trafalgar Square, and the Notting Hill Carnival. He is also part of the team working on next year’s Glastonbury Festival.
Concerns raised by Avon and Somerset Constabulary during the licensing sub-committee’s virtual meeting on September 17 were addressed by Mr Steadman. He emphasised the professionalism and local roots of the volunteer team, as well as prior close coordination with police during last year’s event.
Councillor Simon Carswell, chairing the hearing, expressed worries about managing crowds in the narrow Westway area. Mr Steadman assured that four stewards would maintain clear pedestrian access of at least 2.2 metres and monitor crowd numbers closely, with measures ready to control entry if necessary.
Further addressing concerns about space limitations, Mr Steadman explained that the event could not be held in the Cheese and Grain car park due to the ongoing funfair.
Sergeant Adrian Kettle highlighted ongoing reservations about public safety and limited consultation with the police. He pointed out the potential risks in coordinating the street party alongside the carnival procession and funfair, noting the challenges of crowd movement and exit routes.
In response, Mr Steadman proposed an earlier finish time and noted plans for a subsequent charity event at the 23 Night Club, intended to help disperse attendees safely.
After thorough discussion, councillors voted to grant the licence as requested.
For further details about the Frome Carnival, including procession routes and road closures, visit www.fromecarnival.org.uk.
Upcoming Somerset carnivals in the Wessex Grand Prix circuit will continue on scheduled dates later this year.