TRIBUTES have been paid to the former chairman of the Frome Festival.

Dr Robert (Bob) Morris, who sadly passed away a few weeks ago, became chair of the festival in 2005.

Martin Dimery, the event's creative director, said Mr Morris was a man of "great loyalty, decency and trust".

"He was totally diligent and supportive of the staff, board and volunteers of the Frome Festival as Chairman, and a pleasure to work with," added Mr Dimery.

"Bob became a close personal friend. I shall profoundly miss his wit, charm and tremendous intellect."

Mr Morris succeeded Dennis Buffrey as chair, describing him as a “hard act to follow,” but then made the role his own over the next 15 years.

The Frome Festival then went from strength to strength, with Mr Morris overseeing the transition to charity status.

He attended as many festival events as possible, along with his wife Majorie.

Gavin Rea, current Frome Festival chairman, said: "Bob’s many qualities included inspired leadership, strategic awareness, and wise counsel – all done with great humour – he will be greatly missed by us all.”

Both Mr and Mrs Morris were made Vice-Presidents of Frome Festival in 2020.

Mr Morris retired from the board in January 2021 after nearly 17 years having made a contribution not only to the festival, but also to the town of Frome.

Morag McLaren, patron of Frome Festival, said: “Bob was a lovely, gentle, thoughtful and intelligent man, who’ll be sorely missed at Cooper Hall.

"His presence, constant support and encouragement has been most appreciated since our conception at the first event we held. What a loss for Frome!

"But what a legacy he leaves. He will always be fondly remembered.”

Mr Morris also received a civic award from Frome Town Council for his contribution to town life in 2019.

Mayor of Frome, Anita Collier, added: “My fellow councillors, staff and I are saddened to hear the news that Bob Morris passed away on Wednesday.

"Our thoughts are with his wife Marjorie and their family.

"Bob was an honourable and highly respected man in the town and was Chair of the Frome Festival for 15 years and only stood down last year.

"I’m sure I can speak for the whole town when I say we shall all miss him and that we are so very thankful for the contribution he made to the cultural life of our town.”

Mrs Morris also received a civic award at the same time for her work with the Society of Disable Artists.