FOUNDER and inaugural director of Frome Festival, Martin Bax MBE has passed away at the age of 83.

Martin Bax delivered the first Frome Festival as a community regeneration project in 2001, and was instrumental in delivering large-scale community performances and arts education projects whilst directing Frome Festival during 2001 to 2007. In his role as President he continued to provide guidance for the organisation.

A spokesperson for Frome Festival said: “His vision was to celebrate Frome’s arts scene and make Frome come alive with creative activities for all in as many different spaces as possible.

“Martin’s passion for the arts, with particularly interests in music, theatre and photography, combined with his relentless hard work saw him deliver a remarkable legacy of special moments that are cherished by many to this day.

“At the heart of all Martin achieved was both his love of Frome and the fundamental belief in the power of the arts in bringing communities together.

“Everyone at Frome Festival sends their deepest love and sympathy to Martin’s family and everyone connected to his remarkable life, and will continue to celebrate his legacy by delivering Frome’s community arts festival with his vision at our core.”

Martin was also a town and district councillor before becoming Mayor of Frome in 2003/4, and was presented with an MBE from the Queen in 2006 for services to the Frome Festival and the community.

Town Clerk at Frome Town Council, Peter Wheelhouse, added: “Martin Bax made an extraordinary contribution to Frome's cultural life, raising our town's profile, encouraging artists and creating opportunities for creativity to thrive, throughout his life and career.

“Martin also served as both councillor and Mayor at Frome Town Council, serving the community he loved. Our thoughts are with Martin's family and his many friends and we're grateful to benefit from his legacy for years to come.”