Most people in Frome know about St Aldhelm.

He was the saint who founded a mission in a clearing in the Forest of Selwood, around AD685. That clearing becoming what is now known as Frome.

But a more recent Aldhelm, doubtless named after the local saint, is also played an important part in local history - not least because his photography business recorded much of it.

If you have ever looked up on the corner as you head into Frome, just up from the TSB, there is a clue to why he was so important.

Born in Radstock Aldhelm Samuel Asberry Ashby was the business owner of the town's photography company who documented the life and times of Frome.

You can find out more about him now, thanks to the recently renovated 1a Church Steps next to St John's Church in Frome. Those are now named the 'Aldhelm Ashby Rooms', and for visitors there are now displays in the windows with his history.

There are also copies of photographs of his family - father Francis Asberry Ashby and Mary (nee Stoker) who married around 1870. They went on to have five children, Frank Asberry Ashby b.1872, Mary Asberry Ashby b.1875, Cecilia Asberry Ashby b.1877, George Augustine Asberry Ashby b.1881 and the youngest Aldhelm Samuel Asberry Ashby b.1882.

You can still see the remains of his business - look up on Bath Street

Aldhelm who died on August 6 1958, moved with his family to Frome and started work for Butler and Tanner for a number of years. Butler & Tanner, Britain's oldest and foremost colour printer – established in Frome in 1845 and recently known as *Butler, Tanner & Dennis was the printer used in 1935 to print Ariel, the first Penguin Book.

During the First World War he then served in the Royal Flying Corps.

But he is best remembered as he opened a fine art and photographic business on that corner of Bath Street. While there he also became a sacristan - someone who helps get the church ready for services for St John's.

But it was his photography business, documenting the births and marriages and all the important occasions for Frome families for more than 40 years. that ensure he will be remembered.