The lighting of the Valentine’s lamp is a well-loved Frome tradition that has taken place for over 30 years. Head to the lamp, located at the top of Catherine Hill, at 5:30pm on St Valentine’s Day to witness the wonderful event. The lamp is Somerset’s only working gas lamp, making the tradition even more special.
During the ceremony, lamplighter Eddie Young lights the lamp using a traditional lamplighter’s pole and reads the dedication to St Valentine. Members of Frome Writers Collective Poetry Group will also perform a selection of love-themed poems. The ceremony kicks off with a Queen of Hearts rocket that explodes in a red heart above the lamp.
This popular Frome tradition of the lighting of the Valentine’s Lamp has been celebrated since 1993. Last year, lamp renovator and creator of the ceremony, Reg Ling, handed over the lamp lighting baton to Eddie, ensuring the event lives on for years to come.
People are also encouraged to bring their heart and dove lanterns left over from the Light the Night event. There will be mulled wine, live music from accordionist Tom Woolman and a chance to witness a wonderful event centred around community spirit and spreading the love. <3
