You may have noticed that the Christmas tree is already up in the Market Place and the Christmas lights are zig-zagging their way across the streets. We didn't anticipate a national lockdown when we announced our amended plans for live streaming the Christmas tree light switch on which was due to take place on November 29th.

As that can no longer take place we have decided to "Light up Lockdown" and the Christmas lights will be sparkling around the town a little earlier this year, all throughout November and in the run up to the Light the Night lantern launch on 27th. We're encouraging residents and businesses to create their own lantern which can be placed in their front windows, along with any other fairy lights or other Christmas decorations, so that we make Frome glow and shine as we enter December and right up until Christmas. And from the 27th, why not discover the lanterns and displays in the streets near you, when you're out and about as part of your daily exercise?

Many of you will have attended lantern making workshops in previous years so may already be able to create your own masterpieces. But don't worry, if you need a refresher or are new to making lanterns, there are a host of FREE workshops that the Light the Night team are holding online so that everyone can join in at home and start getting creative. All the details and how to book can be found here: the lanterns site

The lantern kits are available to buy online along with the lights needed to make them shine, so whether you fancy creating a star or a pyramid or want to attempt something a little larger, you can buy them from the kit page on www.fromelanterns.co.uk. As this is a click and collect service you will then be able to bring your receipt to either the Share Shop on Monday and Friday from 10:30am to 4pm or from Frome Town Hall on Monday through to Friday from 9am -5pm (4:30pm on Fridays) to pick up your kit. If you're unable to order online, please call FTC on 01373 465 757 where the team will be able to assist.

Let's light up this lockdown with some truly creative and festive window displays for everyone to enjoy.