REWILDING, regenerative farming, natural healing and community growing will be among the themes of International Women’s Day celebrations in Wincanton.

MP Sarah Dyke (Lib Dem, Glastonbury & Somerton) will be a special guest for a series of panels, workshops and discussions at Lynne Franks’ SEED Hub in the town, held in partnership with the Balsam Centre, on Saturday, March 8.

Ms Dyke will be in conversation with Balsam Centre CEO Sue Place, sharing their stories growing up in farming families as well as discussing the role of women in today’s growing world.

Other sessions planned on the day include hearing from successful women entrepreneurs, farmers and community leaders, including Chelsea Flower Show winner, landscape designer and organic, rewilding advocate, Bruton-based Lulu Urquhart; Somerset flower farmer and author George Newbury; award-winning flower essence producer Saskia Marjoram; award-winning farm shop matriarch and farmer Ruth Kimber and Dorset sheep farmer Rachel Hall, who will be sharing their stories and giving their views on the current challenges for women in farming and growing.

Lynne said: “Traditionally, women have been at the forefront of sowing seeds to feed their communities since we stopped being nomads and it has never been more important for us now to take leadership roles in ensuring connection and healing of the land for our children, grandchildren and the generations to come.”

MP Sarah Dyke, left, and Lynne Franks

A simple ritual honouring Mother Nature will start the day’s activities, followed by an introduction to the day’s theme by Lynne, including an overview of the work she is currently doing through the SEED Network, encouraging the use of barter alongside virtual seed tokens to encourage women to support each other in business and community.

Other activities planned for the day include a SEED Swap, talks by local organic growers, children’s activities and discussions on the importance of Forest Schools and children learning how to connect with nature from an early age.

Workshops will be held at the end of each panel where inter-active discussions, demonstrations and information will be shared.

Snacks and drinks will be available during the day which will finish with a Gratitude Circle to complete the gathering.

All ages and genders are welcome. Admission is donation-based and people are encouraged to book in advance to ensure a space. For more details and to pre-book tickets, visit www.seedhub.uk/iwd25.