Hello Frome is a show all about capturing the human spirit of the Somerset town of Frome. Whether you call it home or have ever visited you’ll know this is town with a big heart.
Through powerful, personal stories from the people who live, work, and give back here, local legends to unsung heroes, we share voices and inspiring moments that reflect the warmth, resilience, and creativity of this remarkable town. Whether it’s a volunteer changing lives or a neighbour with an extraordinary story, this podcast brings Frome’s soul to life — one conversation at a time.
Produced and presented by host Lyndsey Mayhew.
In the very first episode of Hello Frome, host Lyndsey Mayhew meets Kerry Meech the coordinator of the Frome Seed Library and historian and writer David Lassman.
✨ Guest - Kerry Meech
In this conversation with Kerry discover how this community-driven, permanent seed swap initiative in Frome Library encourages sustainable gardening, seed saving, and reconnecting with nature. Kerry shares the origins of the seed library, the global seed sovereignty movement, and the crucial role seed libraries play in supporting biodiversity and community resilience—both locally and worldwide.
Kerry’s also discusses her vibrant gardening club 'Sprouts', the community potato-growing project for a communal potato salad, and shares how Frome’s unique community spirit fosters so many inclusive, impactful projects.
Discover:
- The concept and mission of the Frome Seed Library and how it works
- The global seed sovereignty movement and why it matters
- How seed libraries empower communities to reclaim food and seed independence
- Insights into running a children’s gardening club and engaging diverse community members
- Highlights of a large community project growing potatoes for a shared potato salad
- Tips for amateur gardeners on saving seeds and avoiding common pitfalls
- The vibrant, inclusive community culture in Frome and its history of activism and creativity
Connect with Kerry & Frome Seed Library:
✨ Guest - David Lassman
Renowned historian and writer David Lassman is known for his passionate work preserving and sharing the history of Frome and Somerset. David shares his fascinating journey from Bath to Frome, his diverse career path including acting and screenwriting, and his deep dive into Frome's unique historical landscape. Discover the stories behind his bestselling books, his captivating talks and walks around Frome, and his role in community heritage projects.
Discover:
- David’s early life and education in Bath, including his one O-Level in history
- His brief acting career and transition to writing and screenwriting
- Frome’s rich history: Neolithic barrows, Roman roads and villas, WWII POW camps, industrial heritage
- Writing local history books, including "Frome in the Great War" and the notable true crime book "The Awful Killing of Sarah Watts"
- Popular history walks and talks led by David, including film and TV location tours in Frome (e.g., Poldark, Jane Austen adaptations, Reginald Perrin)
- The work of Frome Heritage CIC in community and wellbeing through heritage
Connect with David and find out more about his events:
SomersetExperiences.com
Keyford Local History Group
David's Books - Winstone's Hunting Raven
