Shepton Mallet gears up for an eclectic weekend full of engaging events, blending the essence of community, music, poetry, and culinary experiences.

As the town awakens to the promise of spring, residents and visitors alike have a unique opportunity to delve into a variety of activities designed to cater to diverse interests.

We're very grateful to the Bath and West Showground who sponsor this newsletter and our What's On section - it's because of companies like them that we can keep Shepton Mallet Nub News free of pop-ups, surveys and subscription requests.

The Showground is busy preparing for an amazing event - the Bath and West Food and Drink Festival which takes place in March.

The event promises an array of demonstrations, presentations, and entertainment suitable for all ages, featuring TV presenter Briony May Williams and food experts like the Fuss Free Foodie, Nigel Barden, and Andy Clarke. Highlights include a cheese and cider pairing session by Thatchers and Wyke Farms, and the Liver Cottage Mobile Kitchen offering humorous cookery demonstrations. The festival will also host the British Cheese Awards, with judging by notable figures such as Marcus Brigstocke and Ned Palmer. Attendees can enjoy stands from the region's top producers, activities for children in the Little Foodies zone, and a variety of beverages at the Farmhouse Tavern. This event celebrates the South West's rich culinary heritage and vibrant food scene, making it a must-visit for the community and food enthusiasts. You can grab your tickets here.

The weekend kicks off with a Network Breakfast with The Rt Hon James Heappey MP at the Wells & Mendip Museum on Friday, 1st March. This gathering is a prime opportunity for business leaders and entrepreneurs in Shepton Mallet and the wider Somerset area to engage in meaningful dialogue about the future of business in the region. Attendees will have the chance to share their challenges, visions, and insights directly with a key figure in shaping our area's economic landscape. Further details on this event can be found here.

James Heappey (File photo)

As the sun sets on Friday, the Art Bank on High Street prepares to welcome soul music enthusiasts to Hip City Classic Soul, marking the first soul night of 2024 on Saturday, 2nd March. Promising a night filled with classic and Northern Soul tunes spun on authentic vinyl, this event is set to recreate the golden era of soul music in the heart of Somerset. With a friendly crowd, unique surroundings, and a great atmosphere, it's an invitation to dance the night away. Tickets and details are available here.

Saturday continues to inspire with the 'ReciPE for LoVe' Found Poetry Workshop at Shepton Mallet Library. Led by Polly Hall, this workshop invites participants to craft new poems from the texts of old recipe books and food writings, exploring the sensual connection between eating and expression. It's a playful and experimental session that promises to spice up your literary palate. Reserve your spot for a taste of creativity.

Additional Highlights of the Weekend:

• Messy Church at St Aldhelm's Church on Sunday, 3rd March, offers families a chance to engage in fun and creative activities together.
• Pizza On The Vines with Edd from Soul Dough at Wraxall Vineyard on Friday, 1st March, combines delicious pizza with the serene vineyard setting.
• Live: Dragonsfly at The Art Bank Cafe on Friday, 1st March, invites you to enjoy an evening of dynamic performances.
• Newton Toad performs at "At the Chapel" in Bruton on Saturday, 2nd March, for an intimate musical evening.
• GRAFFITI DESIGN WORKSHOP at The Old Stores Studio on Saturday, 2nd March, caters to the creative young minds interested in the art of graffiti.

Shepton Mallet's vibrant array of events this weekend offers something for everyone, from the entrepreneur seeking insights to the music lover dancing the night away, and the budding poet exploring the art of found poetry. It's a testament to the town's diverse cultural landscape and its commitment to fostering community spirit and artistic expression. Join in to experience the unique charm and vibrancy of Shepton Mallet.