A FLASH mob of more than 100 Kates lined up in Frome at the weekend for a very different rendition of Running up that Hill.

The flash mob of Kate Bush fans took the opportunity to dress up, sing and dance as part of the Frome Connects series of events this May to show the power of connection.

More than 100 people turned up dressed in shades of grey to take part in a simple routine inspired by Running Up That Hill, with some travelling from as far as Kent and Coventry. They were joined by families, friends, curious onlookers and plenty of people who had never met before.

Frome-based performer Ginny Adams, and part of Frome Connects, came up with the idea. She said: “The flash mob on Saturday felt like a wonderful expression of everything the project had been about. What started as a slightly daft idea grew into something much bigger than any of us expected.”

Martin Scott, Frome's exuberant Town Crier, opened proceedings and Catherine Hill quickly filled with spectators as the dancers gathered.

“There was a real sense of excitement, generosity and playfulness in the air. People were laughing, chatting, encouraging one another and embracing the sheer silliness of it all,” Ginny said.

It was photographed by local photographer Chris Bailey and filmed from the air by Paul Durber, whose drone footage captured just how many people had come together.

Ginny who has spent more than 30 years working with people of all ages through performance, movement, storytelling and community events, said: “For me, the most memorable thing wasn't the choreography or even the size of the crowd; it was seeing people of all ages and backgrounds sharing an experience and creating a moment together. In a world where it's easy to become isolated, that felt genuinely special.

“It brought together many of the things I'm most passionate about: community, creativity, wellbeing and creating opportunities for people to connect in simple, meaningful ways.”

The Frome Connects initiative ran throughout May led by Jenny Hartnoll of We Are Connectors CIC, and was all about exploring the importance of connection, to each other, the places we share and the wider world around.

Ginny helped facilitate a range of free events and activities, including Dress Up Fridays, the arrival of the Coat of Hopes, and the idea to collect at the bottom of Frome’s Catherine Hill for a singalong. She said: ““The idea running through all of them was that connection doesn't have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with intentionally wearing your favourite pair of shoes, singing with strangers, dancing in the street, or simply sharing a moment of stillness in a park.”

Although May has now come to an end, Frome Connects continues, is the message. The project sparked new conversations, groups, friendships, collaborations and ideas, and there's already talk of the Kate Bush flash mob becoming an annual event.

“Whatever happens next, it was a joy to be part of something that reminded us how powerful human connection can be,” Ginny added.