A mayoral update

After serving Diss as mayor for two years, Councillor Sonia Browne handed over her robes this May to Councillor Eric Taylor. Here we hear from them both as they reflect on the challenges of the past year and look ahead to an exciting new chapter for the town.

A message from Councillor Sonia Browne

“This past year has been, for many, difficult to live through with so many changes and restrictions. But, despite this, I’ve seen many examples of people living out my themes of community, communication and kindness.

“Being mayor during a pandemic made being in the community very hard. Most of the functions and charity events I would usually be involved in were either cancelled or rescheduled. I found this tough. Not being able to raise money as I normally would was hard. I also really missed not being able to meet physically with friends, colleagues, business owners and all the amazing people I’ve been fortunate enough to get to know since becoming mayor.

“Despite this, with the help of technology and social distancing, I managed to attend quite a few virtual events and meetings.

“I took part in a special VE Day commemoration and a very moving Remembrance Day ceremony. I judged an Easter competition and formed part of the COVID-19 Beacon Committee, the Fair Green Community Group and the Christmas Lights Committee. I chaired Full Council meetings each month, attended all other council committee meetings and networked with people from other councils. I supported our town’s youth councillors and continued to make appearances on Park Radio. I was privileged to be able to mark Black History month with Norfolk Constabulary officers. And I mustn’t forget my virtual photography group, the panto at The Corn Hall and switching on the Christmas lights (accompanied by Father Christmas).

“I’m extremely proud and privileged to have been your mayor and would like to wish our new Mayor of Diss, Councillor Taylor, all the best for his year ahead.

“And finally…though I’m not your mayor, I will continue to support all of our communities in my role as town councillor. And, together with my colleagues, to promote our council vision to make Diss a successful, vibrant, attractive town, where people want to live, work and visit.”

Cllr Sonia Browne

A message from Diss Town Mayor, Councillor Eric Taylor

“I feel honoured to be elected to the role of Diss Town Mayor for 2021-22 by fellow members of the council.

“As we emerge from the pandemic, after a difficult year, I’m eager to support the many new and exciting projects we have planned to help our beautiful town grow and thrive. For those who don’t know me, I’ve been a member of council for over three years. In that time, I’ve chaired the Planning Committee and been a steering group member of the Diss & District Neighbourhood Plan.

“We have a number of initiatives in place to help us achieve the council’s vision of making Diss a successful, vibrant, attractive town, where people want to live, work and visit. “The council’s strategic plan covers areas such as town cleanliness, cost efficiencies and new revenue streams, and Mere biodiversity.

“We are also nearing the submission stage for the Diss & District Neighbourhood Plan, which will help us deliver infrastructure improvements and good quality homes in preferred locations, whilst protecting the town’s heritage and local green spaces.

“And there’s the Facilities Management Programme, which helps the council develop a financial forecast for maintaining its assets.

“I can’t promise I will have all the answers. But I can promise to work hard to find them and do all I can to help Diss prosper, whilst still retaining its individuality and character.”

Diss Town Mayor, Cllr Eric Taylor