Hanson's Whatley quarry near Frome, Somerset, is holding an open day Sunday April 23 from 10:30 am until 3pm.

All are welcome at the free event, which was postponed last Autumn due to HM Queen Elizabeth's funeral. There will be something for everyone with a range of family-friendly activities including giant quarry machinery displays and demonstrations, a raffle, vintage vehicle exhibition, and stands where you can learn about the workings of the quarry and the wildlife that calls it home.  

Members of the public will also have the opportunity to explore fossil and mineral finds from the site, with free examples to give away; there will be a children's colouring competition; and minibus tours of the quarry*, which is part-way through a £10 million upgrade, will also be available, showing the plant, rail and excavation areas. 

The area is hugely impressive - Frome Nub News was offered a chance to explore Whatley Quarry ahead of the Open Day

"Following the lifting of Covid-19 restrictions, we are pleased to be able to open our doors to the local community," said Hanson operations manager Vincent Pitt.  

"It gives everyone the chance to have a fun day out while learning about our operations as well as the use and importance of minerals. It will also allow local people to see our new fuel-efficient CAT 777G dumper trucks, plus other plant upgrades, which form part of our on-going investment programme at the site." 

Whatley quarry has been operating since the 1960s. It supplies crushed limestone aggregate via its dedicated rail link to depots in London and south east England and by road to local markets.  

For more information about the open day visit: https://www.hanson-communities.co.uk/en/whatley-and-westdown-quarry-community-page/open-day  

• Numbers will be limited