S u m m e r 2022
Fun in the sun Free events for all
Royal Fresh reflections faces Relive Diss’s regal past
Meet our new town traders
2 Diss Matters Summer 2022
Welcome New faces, old memories, and dates for the diary In this issue of Diss Matters we look ahead to a summer full of fun (and FREE) events and activities. Kicking of the party vibe, our Glow in the Park
Contents
event takes place on Thursday 2 June. A lantern
4-5
Council news
procession, beacon lighting ceremony,
6-7
A mayoral update
8-9
A week in the life of...
all make Diss “glow” in honour of the Queen’s
11
An update on the Diss & District Neighbourhood Plan
Platinum Jubilee.
12
The Corn Hall: Live and kicking
13
The Corn Hall: What’s on
spectacular firework display and street-theatre sensations, LED drumming troupe Spark!, will
Our beloved Diss Carnival also returns this year. And we’ve got a few teasers to whet your appetite for what’s in store. Circus-themed,
14-15 Station manager goes off-air
Carnival 2022 is set to be a real showstopper.
17
So, dust off your top hat and tails and join us
18-19 A trip down memory lane
for the procession, followed by a party to remember, on Sunday 3 July.
Open the boot
20-21 (Cold) tea on Rectory Meadow
Party central, our beautiful park will also host
22-23 Lighthouse inspires Platinum party
our popular car boot sales. There’s also some
25
great new play equipment for the kids to enjoy.
26-27 The great ‘Comeback Carnival’
While we get ready for what the summer
Museum reopening gets royal treatment
brings, we also step back in time to remember
28-29 A play park for all
some of our town’s past events. Inspired by this
31
year’s royal milestone, we discover more about
32-33 New on the market
Diss’ floating lighthouse that marked the Queen’s Coronation back in 1953. We bring
Diss says “bonjour!” to boules
36-37 Rotary round-up
back memories of the street parties that also
39
New on the high street
accompanied the occasion. And relive the royal
41
Diss youth update
visit of 1866. Finally, we return back to the future, to meet a new generation of town traders. Lots to look forward to. Lots to be thankful for. And lots of memories still to be made.
Diss Matters is published by Falcon Publications, Units 10a-11 Red House Yard, Gislingham Road, Thornham Magna, Eye, Suffolk IP23 8HH Tel: 01379 773347 / 48, www.falconpublications.co.uk falconpublications@artseastmag Design & Artwork: Ian Foster, Copy Concept Diss Town Council: 01379 643848 Diss Matters Summer 2022 3
Council news Diss Town Council’s 14 councillors and
Work continues
team of 13 staff have been busy working
to restore an
hard to make Diss a better place to live,
ancient walkway
work and visit.
at the rear of
In the last six months, we have improved
the DYCC. The
facilities, considered 10 planning
Woodland Walk
applications, spent hundreds of hours
opens in June to
planning events, progressed with the DDNP
mark the
to submission stage, provided £6,670 of
Queen’s
grant funding, dealt with 2,086 public
Platinum Jubilee,
enquiries, attended 14 committee
and is the result
meetings, welcomed four new market
of a partnership between Parish Fields
traders and a new town councillor, and
Friends, Diss Town Council and South
administered over 600 enquiries relating to
Norfolk Council.
our sites (including processing burials and hiring our venues). Thank you to the many
Events
volunteers and partners who make this all
2022 is a big year for events, after a lull due
happen.
to COVID. Glow in the Park takes place on Thursday 2 June in celebration of her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. And 3 July sees the long-awaited return of the hugely popular Diss Carnival. Acknowledging community effort Lots of you joined our Annual Town Meeting at the end of April to thank members of our community who have made a difference to
Improving facilities
the lives of others. George Waterman and
New play equipment in the park includes
Lou Hines were presented with our
single interactive pieces for different ages,
Honoured Citizen awards. And Plamena
enabling inclusive play for children with
Marinova received our Junior Good Citizen
additional needs.
award. George set up the town’s successful
CCTV across the town is being upgraded at
litter picking group, provides volunteering
the Skateboard Park, in the town park,
opportunities for young people and is a key
around the boardwalk and gardens and at
member of the Community Fridge project.
the Diss Youth & Community Centre (DYCC).
Lou fundraises to ensure young people in
We’ve supported the Community Fridge
Diss have access to mental health support.
initiative by giving it a home at the DYCC,
And Plamena uses her spare time to
planting three fruit trees on the site to
champion the voice of young people.
provide a food source for the project.
Town Mayor, Councillor Eric Taylor, also
4 Diss Matters Summer 2022
made a special award to Reverend Canon
As part of our strategic objective to reduce
Tony Billett, Rector of Diss Team Ministry,
costs and deliver better value, we’ve also
for 20 years’ service to the Diss community.
increased the revenue from our Sports
Also in April, Council Leader, Councillor
Ground site and are looking at ways to
Simon Olander, presented Chris Moyse,
improve facilities.
former Station Manager at Park Radio, with a certificate in recognition of his significant
Reducing carbon footprint
contribution to establishing a truly local
We recently supported the Climate and
radio station.
Ecological Emergency Bill as part of our
And, to acknowledge our community’s
strategic objective of creating a greener
resilience during the pandemic, a
town. We have replaced almost all our streetlighting to LED, (reducing our energy and carbon consumption by over 50%), increased in-house recycling, and are investigating renewable energies across our sites. Infrastructure improvements In partnership with Norfolk County Council (NCC), we’re making highway-related improvements. The Parish Partnership Scheme – funded equally by us and NCC – is one example of this. This year, the public right of way (PROW) linking Walcot Green and Burston Road will be made more accessible. And we’ve been successful in a second bid for a third speed sign. Improvements to the Causeway PROW, and the Vince’s Road junction, are
commemorative plaque was presented to
both scheduled for this year. Other
Diss Town Council by Philippa Taylor, one of
partnership projects include the
Norfolk’s Deputy Lieutenants.
pedestrianisation of Mere Street and a review of parking
Cost savings
restrictions.
We’ve been successful in a grant application to the National Lottery ‘Awards for All’. This
Sarah Richards,
will cover most of the costs associated with
Town Clerk at Diss Town Council
the Beacon surround extension project, and aspects of the Glow in the Park, Jubilee event.
Diss Matters Summer 2022 5
A mayoral update services in some of the area’s most interesting towns. I attended civic services for the Mayor of Beccles, the Mid Suffolk Chairman at Stowmarket, the Mayor of Hunstanton and the High Sheriff of Norfolk’s Justice Service at Norwich Cathedral. My visit to Thetford was particularly fascinating because Thetford is one of the oldest mayoralties in the country. The third oldest after the City of Catch up on all the mayoral events so far
London and Winchester, its history dates
this year. Find out where Councillor Eric
back over 800 years.
Taylor’s been, who he’s met and what he’s been up to since his last update.
Remembering those who sacrificed their lives
My diary I’ve attended around 20 events, in addition to my regular council and committee meetings. Events like these are a chance to promote Diss, support the organiser’s charities, and engage and network with other chairmen and senior officers at parish, district and county council levels. Here are some highlights of my year so far. Another highlight for me was Remembrance Sunday, when hundreds gathered in Diss to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom. Lining the streets from Mere’s Mouth up to the Market Place, crowds watched as over 30 local organisations and community groups paraded through the town. Eric with Mayor of Hunstanton, Cllr Adrian Winnington
Led by the Reverend Tony Billett, Rector of Diss Team Ministry, the town fell still and
Exploring the area and enjoying
silent at St Mary’s church for two minutes of
the history
reflection. The wreath-laying ceremony that
Learning about other towns and how they
followed included representatives from Her
promote their heritage interests me. And I
Majesty the Queen, local and central
thoroughly enjoyed attending the civic
government, the armed forces, emergency
6 Diss Matters Summer 2022
services, sports clubs and charities.
hardy souls in the early afternoon period
The flypast of two Apache helicopters at the
when the rain was at its worst. They
conclusion of the wreath laying was a fitting
deserved a much bigger audience.
and moving climax.
Let’s hope for better weather this year!
Lighting up the town
Reopening the town
Another outstanding event was the
I was invited by Parish Fields Friends to
Christmas lights switch-on. Unfortunately,
reopen the ancient woodland walkway
the weather on the day was very wet and
they’ve reclaimed behind the DYCC and the
windy (particularly in the afternoon). But
Citizens Advice offices. When they first asked
thankfully it cleared up just before the grand
me to take on the stewardship, supported by both Diss Town Council and South Norfolk Council, I jumped at the chance because it created another open space for the community to enjoy. Although not yet finished, it will hopefully be completed around the time of the Queen’s Jubilee in June. On a sunny day in March, crowds gathered to witness the reopening of Diss Museum. In a nod to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, Basil Abbot the museum manager organised a historical re-enactment of the royal family’s 1866 visit to Diss to mark the occasion. A well-organised and well-attended event, I
switch-on. It was very heart-warming to see
played a small part in the re-enactment and
so many people turning up, despite the
was honoured to be there when His Majesty
weather. With the previous year’s event
King Edward VII and Her Majesty Queen
cancelled due to COVID, it was clear to see
Alexandra officially proclaimed the museum
how eager and excited people were to have
open again.
it reinstated.
It was so lovely to see so many adults and
By the time the event came to a close, I was
children entering into the spirit and dressing
completely soaked to the skin. But I had
in Edwardian costumes. The King and Queen
enjoyed every minute. It was lovely to see
obviously thought so too, giving out prizes
the sea of happy smiling faces (of mums and
for the best adult and children’s costumes.
dads as well as children) as I rode on the
Overall, it was a lovely day with a large
vintage fire engine with Father Christmas up
appreciative audience. It was great to see
Mere Street. The only downside on the day
the museum open and welcoming visitors
was seeing so many talented people
once again.
performing on stage to just a handful of
Diss Town Mayor, Cllr Eric Taylor Diss Matters Summer 2022 7
A week in the life of…A deputy town clerk Deputy clerks, working for town councils,
Here’s a little taste of what Sonya’s average
are busy people who keep the cogs of
week might look like:
community life turning. But what do they actually do? Diss Town Council’s Deputy
Task 1. Site visit to the play park with our
Town Clerk, Sonya French, walks us through
maintenance manager to check on the
a week in her shoes.
installation of our new, inclusive play
“Being a deputy clerk is like being a town
equipment. While there, I noticed that the
resource,” says Sonya. “We’re the link
wet pour safety matting was not as we
between higher tier authorities and local
expected and had to organise for the
information. We might not always have the
contractors to come back to site to rectify it.
right answer, but with patience we can usually find it. Having the confidence and
Task 2. Meet with Mervyn Lambert on site
contacts to make that phone call or reach
to sort out road closures, signs and health
out to someone else to try and find an
and safety barriers for our annual Diss
answer, is what makes the difference. And
Carnival procession.
this is what I love about my job.” 8 Diss Matters Summer 2022
Task 3. Meet with contractors at the
telephone, so I called on his behalf to get
cemetery for a “toolbox talk” ahead of
the information and help needed to ensure
works to stabilise the chapel walls and
his safety. I then went to the shop to buy
upgrade the chapel roof.
him some food and drink to keep him going until the homelessness team came to
Task 4. Draft the minutes of a recent
attend and assess him.
Executive Committee meeting to provide transparency and an accurate record of
Task 11. Help a resident who came to the
what was discussed at the meeting.
office looking for her lost glove.
Task 5. Write a monthly update for the local
Task 12+: Manage staff queries that have
newspaper, updating the public on what
arisen throughout the week. These
Diss Town Council is working on and has
included: Is there room on the market to
achieved.
allow for a new stall? Can we install a monument at the cemetery for a recent
Task 6. Meet with the Carnival Committee
interment? What press articles need to go
Chair to decide on acts, scope out maps of
out for the upcoming Queen’s Jubilee event?
the park, and agree health and safety, risk
Can you help me write a social media post
and method statements for the District
for Carnival? When do I need to do the road
Council’s Safety Advisory Group.
closure application for upcoming events? Can you fix my laptop as it has stopped
Task 7. Meet with County/District Councillor
working and will not load anything?
Kiddie to decide where the new bunting will be installed ahead of this summer’s events.
And finally: Just as I was winding up for the week, I get a phone call about a problem
Task 8. Meet with councillors to discuss the
with the scaffolding at the cemetery. So, on
Sports Ground and Diss Youth &
my way home, I put on my hard hat, don my
Community Centre (DYCC) and the
scaffolder’s outfit, and go to the cemetery
improvement projects planned for the
to try and sort it out.”
coming year. Task 9. Draft new contracts and rental agreements for all our long-term hirers. Task 10. Help the homeless man who came to our office asking for housing. Diss Town
Find out more about the council at:
Council doesn’t own any accommodation,
www.diss.gov.uk/the-council.
so we needed to contact the District Council
Want to meet the rest of the team? Find
who deal with housing and homelessness.
us at: www.diss.gov.uk/meet-the-team.
The gentleman didn’t have a mobile Diss Matters Summer 2022 9
Contractors to H.M. Government
Scrap Metal Collection Free Metal Dump We Buy in Metal Why not pop down and see what we have from nuts and bolts to picks and shovels, buckets and spades, tools and hardware from racking and shelves, benches to kitchenware and cutlery. Items to recycle from vintage to retro.
Open 8.30am-4pm Weekdays 8.30am-noon Saturdays Call us on 01379 642983 Oxford House, Mission Road Diss IP22 4HX peter.gillings@virgin.net www.gillingsofdiss.com
10 Diss Matters Summer 2022
An update on the Diss & District Neighbourhood Plan Question: What's happening with the Diss &
"There has also been a strengthening of the
District Neighbourhood Plan?
Surface Water Management policy and the
Answer: Quite a lot! Read on to find out
Local Green Space policy," said DDNP Steering
more about how your views are helping to
Group representative for Diss, Councillor Eric
shape the plan.
Taylor. “We’ve also reflected on what the Waveney Quarter proposal in Diss could look
Public feedback prompts second
like. We’ve come a long way already. But
consultation
there’s still a way to go. The next step is for
Following on from
the DDNP to submit the final plan to South
the initial
Norfolk District Council for further
Regulation 14
examination.”
consultation that ran from June to
Keeping up the pace
August last year,
One of the most complex neighbourhood
the plan has had
plans currently underway in the UK today, the
some significant
DDNP has come a long way since it started
changes made to
developing back in 2017. There’s still some
it. As a result, a second Regulation 14 'Major
way to go, but with public involvement and
Modifications' consultation followed, which
the commitment of everyone involved it’s
has since helped fine-tune several policies
making speedy progress.
and proposals.
“I’d like to thank everyone, from individuals to
Most significantly, the housing allocation
local organisations, who took the time to
numbers have been reduced and some of the
submit their feedback,” says Councillor Eric
sites allocated have been withdrawn. For
Taylor. “We’ve used it all to review and revise
example, we’ve seen the:
the plan. Work on the DDNP started some
• removal of the site allocation at Rose Farm, Bungay Road in Scole • removal of the site allocation north of the B1118 in Lower Oakley • reduction in the number of dwellings on land south of the B1118 in Lower Oakley • reduction in the number of dwellings on
years ago. And, due to the scale and scope of the project, it’s taking some time to reach a conclusion. But thanks to everyone’s contribution and feedback we’ve made great progress over the past two years and are on course to maximise on that momentum.” To find out more about the DDNP as it
land off Denmark Lane, Diss (including part
reaches its final stages prior to submission,
of Roydon parish)
visit www.ddnp.info
• reduction in the number of dwellings allocated on land north of Diss cemetery, and • new allocation of 50 homes on land east of Norwich Road in Scole. Diss Matters Summer 2022 11
Live and kicking us to enjoy live experiences again. The team is working tirelessly to squeeze in 18 months of rescheduled events, into an already jam-packed schedule. Which means on average there are three to four shows a week. Alongside the impressive programme, The Corn Hall provides a welcoming community hub for Diss, which supports a wide range of community groups and workshops such The long-awaited return to live events at The Corn Hall has been wholly embraced in the recent months by the people of Diss. If you visit The Corn Hall today, it’s a hive of activity, with a busy café and a
of home grown talent, whose return to The Corn Hall has been warmly welcomed.
Thomas and Terence Blacker, and theatre
Like all arts venues across the country, The Corn Hall experienced significant setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic and had to close for a total of almost 12 months. No shows, and as a result no income, became reality as uncertainty threatened the Diss venue.
companies like RoughCast, Open Space and Common Ground, as well as Garlic Theatre and Greasepaints Academy for families, to name but a few! Whether it’s popping in for a coffee (and one of those famous scones), coming along to the Wednesday films or an evening of live music, we would love to see you!
The incredible community support during the ups and downs of COVID-19 was truly heart-warming. And now, to judge from the sheer delight on the faces of our audiences and lots of sell-out shows, it’s clear that live entertainment at The Corn Hall is back!
”
With the lifting of restrictions, theatre shows and gigs have been re-igniting people’s passion for the arts with a renewed sense of perspective - every live event now feels that bit more special. The pandemic has taught 12 Diss Matters Summer 2022
The Corn Hall is home to a brilliant selection
Ingham’s jazz shows, the Bootleg Boss, Dave
something for everyone.
Angela Sykes, Programme Manager
Wednesdays and hosting the food bank.
There’s local poet Luke Wright, Chris
programme rich with diversity and
“
as the Dementia Café, Meet Up
And will the Christmas Panto will be back? Oh yes it will. The Corn Hall Team
What’s on May to October events OUTDOOR THEATRE Sunday 29 May, 7pm (doors 6pm) The HandleBards present: Twelfth Night The Handlebards are back! Join them for a bicycle-powered, laugh-out-loud production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. This production will be performed in Diss park, so please bring your own chair or blanket to sit on, a picnic to dig into, and dress for the weather! COMEDY Saturday 18 June, 8pm Shaparak Khorsandi: It was the 90s! The decade where Shaparak left an important part of her brain somewhere in a field in Hampshire…From indie discos to unflattering
The HandleBards
crop tops, how does the decade of binge drinking and walks of shame look now without snakebite and black tinted specs?
SAVE THE DATES MUSIC Fri 10 Jun: The Counterfeit Sixties Fri 17 Jun: The Budapest Café Orchestra Wed 27 Jul: Davina and The Vagabonds Thurs 25 Aug: The George Michael Story Sat 8 Oct: Ricky Ross – Short Stories Vol 2 FAMILY Sat 11 Jun: The hilariously funny world of James Campbell
Shaparak Khorsandi
THEATRE Sun 28 Aug: Pygmalion by DOT Productions
The box office, café and galleries are open Monday to Saturday between 10am to 4pm. To book or for more information visit www.thecornhall.co.uk, pop in or call 01379 652241. Diss Matters Summer 2022 13
Station Manager goes off-air were still other projects and personal goals I needed to pursue. But I also knew that I couldn’t go anywhere until I’d secured the station’s future. And this meant getting the licence to 2027 approved, seeing the station through COVID, ensuring business sustainability, and restructuring the business. Once all of those were in place, I felt ready to hand over the reins. “And, of course, having a great team to pass the baton onto makes all the difference. I know that with Jono Woodward in place as If you think of Park Radio, the chances are you’ll think of Chris Moyse too. The two have become synonymous over the years, ever since Chris joined the project back in 2010. But like all the best partnerships, it’s important to know when it’s time to move on. And, for Chris, that time was in March
new Station Manager, an experienced and committed Board of Directors, and a whole host of talented presenters and hardworking volunteers on board, the station is in safe and supportive hands.” Time to reflect
this year.
Since making his decision, Chris has had
Time to change
challenges he’s led his team through. And
After 12 years at the helm, Managing Director and Station Manager Chris Moyse hung up his headphones at the end of March this year. From broadcasting intermittent test broadcasts under Candies shoe shop to providing a 24-hour service from bespoke studios in the DYCC, Chris’s input has seen the station grow and thrive. And it’s this that has prompted his departure. “I’ve lived and breathed Park Radio since 2010,” says Chris. “But during the pandemic, I started to think about moving on. While in lockdown, I realised (like many others) how precious life is. And I knew that, however much I loved managing Park Radio, there
14 Diss Matters Summer 2022
time to reflect on what he’s achieved. The some of the many highlights. ''For me, helping to establish a truly local radio station in my hometown has been a dream come true,” says Chris. “And it has surpassed all of my expectations over the last 12 years. There have, of course, been challenges. But I’d like to think I've helped hold it together during those tricky times. “My biggest challenge (and one of my biggest achievements too) was keeping the service going throughout the pandemic. I can’t deny it was tough. But it was so worth it. The feedback we received from residents reminded us how important having a community radio station is, particularly in times of uncertainty and hardship.”
Time to travel So, what’s next? Well, it seems all that time
“Park Radio has an on-air sound that’s
in the studio has given Chris itchy feet.
varied and full of personality. It’s upbeat,
“I plan to travel around Europe,” says Chris.
positive and contemporary. And I know the
“I’m going to take some time out and see a
station is going to go from strength to
bit of the world. But I’ll be back. And, when I
strength.
do, one of the first things I’ll do is turn on the radio!
“Long live Park Radio!”
''It’s been a real privilege working with everyone at Park Radio. I'm so very, very proud of what we’ve achieved for our communities. And I’d like to thank our many volunteers, listeners, advertisers and supporters, without whom there wouldn’t have been a radio station at all.
Diss Matters Summer 2022 15
NOW OPEN IN DISS local : secure : 24/7 access
LOCAL, SECURE STORAGE WITH 24/7 ACCESS
07902 084722
enquiries@localselfstoragediss.co.uk www.localselfstoragediss.co.uk
There’s so much more in store for you!
16 Diss Matters Summer 2022
Open the boot
Car boot sales are a satisfying and fun way
Not only can you get an item of clothing for
to make money out of the things you no
50p, but you can often discover hidden
longer love or need. Lockdown provided
treasures, including local memorabilia and
plenty of opportunities to de-clutter the
antiques.
home, sort through unwanted wardrobe items, and have a good general clear-out.
Want to join?
And now that restrictions have all been
Up to eight car boot sales are permitted in
lifted, it’s a great time to park up, set up
the park each year and slots are given on a
your pitch and make a bit of money. And
first come, first served basis. If you’re a
where better to do it than in our very own
charitable organisation and are interested
Diss park? Right by the Mere, with shops,
in hiring the park for a car boot sale, visit
cafés, and other amenities within walking
diss.gov.uk/car-boots to download an
distance, it’s the perfect location to attract
application form. Or enquire at the Diss
buyers and make a bit of cash.
Town Council office. The season may have already started (the first car boot sale took
All in a good cause
place on 1 May raising money for Diss
Car boot sales aren’t just good for your
Carnival), but we still have a few dates
pocket. By recycling your old bits and bobs
available:
you can support sustainability and do your bit for the planet too. And help support good causes. Every year, our car boot sales raise hundreds of pounds for lots of local and national charities and community groups. And by buying a pitch (usual cost is £5) you’re playing a big part in that. Bargain hunters And, for those looking to hunt down a deal, car boot sales certainly offer that and more.
Diss park car boot sales 2022: Future dates and availability • Sunday 12 June - AVAILABLE • Sunday 26 June - AVAILABLE • Sunday 10 July - AVAILABLE • Sunday 24 July - Park Radio • Sunday 7 August - Town Mayor’s charity • Sunday 21 August - AVAILABLE • Sunday 4 September - Citizens Advice • Sunday 18 September - AVAILABLE
Diss Matters Summer 2022 17
A trip down memory lane Local historian and retired carpenter,
enthusiasm for collecting memorabilia. I still
Dennis Cross, has lived and worked in and
have some very rare postcards of Burston
around Diss all his life. After decades of
Station, which are my most treasured items.
collecting Diss memorabilia, Dennis turned to fundraising, selling charity
Where do you source your photos and
calendars in aid of the Big C.
postcards from?
Featuring an extensive collection of old
I found most of my items from antique fairs
photographs, postcards and press cuttings
and postcard fairs. I started going to these
dating back to 1865, his calendars have
in 1976 and, after finding a few fascinating
been a big success over the years, raising
postcards, I became hooked. It then became
thousands for the Norfolk cancer charity.
a weekly trip on a Saturday to a different
With sales growing year-on-year, the
fair. I discovered a very early postcard of
calendars are well travelled, with copies
Sunnyside in Diss at an antique shop in
sold in New Zealand!
Felixstowe! The more I collected, the more I
We took the opportunity to find out more
wanted to collect. I then joined the Norfolk
about the man behind the memorabilia.
Postcard Club, where I continued to collect local memorabilia. People would know what
Dennis, tell us a bit about yourself:
I was interested in and they’d reserve
I’ve lived and worked in the Diss area my
postcards for me. Friends would also keep
whole life. I grew up
an eye out for me, and
in Shimpling, went to
the photos would often
Burston Primary
be a good talking point
School then Diss
in the pub
Secondary School and later moved to
You have a lot of
Diss where I’ve lived
stories to tell Dennis,
for many years.
how do you remember
I started out as an
them all?
apprentice carpenter
I’ve done many things in
and learned the trade
my life, worked with
on the job, doing various carpentry jobs in
many people in different jobs and learned a
Diss. I’ve seen many changes to the town
lot. The more you do, the more memories
over the years.
you make. I can remember one of my earliest memories – learning to ride a bike
What sparked your interest in collecting
with my mum in Shimpling. She kept telling
memorabilia?
me to turn left and I went straight ahead,
As a child, I was always fascinated with
into a hawthorn bush! I also have a lot of
railway stations - my father worked on the
farming memories growing up. Living in a
railway. I used to collect railway tickets,
village with lots of fields meant I had to help
which I suppose was the early signs of my
with the regular farming duties.
18 Diss Matters Summer 2022
Of all the historic events in Diss, what
What gave you the idea of creating a
stands out most in your mind?
charity calendar?
I remember when Aldridge’s Brush Factory
I have a huge collection and, after
in Diss, which was built in the
producing my books, I always wanted
early 1900s,
to do another project. I’ve known
caught fire. I
many people who have battled with
ended up
cancer in their lives and it dawned
helping to lay a
on me one day that I could use all
flat roof on top
the images I’d collected to raise a
of the remains.
bit of money for a good cause. I was chatting to my friend Rob,
Where can our
from Photo
readers view
Elite, and we
your images and postcards?
came up with
Once I’d got a good collection of
the idea of
items, I produced a couple of
creating a
books with all my local snaps
calendar
and postcards in. My first book
featuring
was published in 1991 called ‘A
different
Portrait in Old Picture Postcards’
images of Diss
followed by a second book ‘Memories of
and local villages. I sourced the images and
Diss’. I still have some copies available for
Rob helped with the production. The £10
people to buy.
sale of each calendar went to the Big C
I also have regular features in the ‘Village
charity. We started the first one in 2016 and
People’ magazine, where I share photos and
it’s become more popular every year! I’ve
postcards of a different local village every
raised between £5,000-£6,000 in total.
two months. Recently, I was featured in the Diss Town Guide too.
Dennis will soon be working on a 2023 calendar, which he hopes will be ready for sale in August. Featuring even more unseen images and postcards from Diss and local villages, this one is sure to be another hit! If you have any historic photos or postcards of Diss and our local villages, Dennis would love to hear from you on 01379 651897. Diss Matters Summer 2022 19
(Cold) Tea on Rectory Meadow Copyright: Ivan J. Underwood – (Cold) Tea on Rectory Meadow
On Coronation Day June 2, 1953, hundreds
“I remember this. We lived at No 5 Uplands
of Diss residents gathered, amid flurries of
Way. Mum (Irene Madgett) became
snow, for a celebratory tea in Rectory
secretary of the Uplands-Willbye
Meadow. Local photographer at the time,
Association, which grew out of this event. I
Ivan J. Underwood, captured the
still have the Coronation mug and plate. I
celebrations on his camera. As Diss
seem to remember all of us being given a
prepares to mark the Queen’s Platinum
new 1953 Elizabeth II shiny shilling.”
Jubilee in June, we share this iconic
Paul Madgett
photograph, and some of the memories it has brought back.
“If I recall correctly, the Coronation film came to the Picture House a week or two
“It was a chilly day, hence the winter coats.
after the event itself. I can remember
On the back of photo, mum wrote ‘Very
milling around outside the Picture House
cold, flurry of snow early morning’.”
before we were let in.”
June Eagle
Michael Rice
“Doris Riley is my grandma and Maureen
“I remember this day very well. My mum
Riley my mum. They can recall going to the
bought me a red, white and blue check
Rectory Meadow and walking from the
dress, red sandals and white socks. I felt
school to the picture house to watch it.”
very special. I still have the bible we were
Anne Emsden
given, but unfortunately the mug got broken over the years.” Pauline Scoulding
20 Diss Matters Summer 2022
the lounge with the curtains drawn trying to watch it on our very dim and unreliable TV. I was hobbling around free and let myself out of the open front door. Dad ran out to catch me before I made it to the road!” Paul Frindle “Queen Elizabeth’s Coronation was the first national event I remember, although I was probably unaware that it was the Coronation. My brother and I dressed in fancy dress and we attended a concert in “We had only moved to the area the year before. My sister Jackie and I were in the fancy dress parade in Roydon. Our mother made our costumes. I was Britannia and Jackie was a red, white and blue rosette!!”
Chitty’s garage on the same day. I can remember someone playing the piano and singing ‘How Much Is That Doggie in the Window?’ In the evening, we went to the Picture House to see Alan Ladd in ‘The Red
Gill Steggles
Beret’. As we came home up The Entry,
“I remember Coronation Day vividly even
Meadow. Schoolchildren were all given
though I was only 2 years old. People from up and down Croft Lane were huddled in
there was a gymkhana on the Rectory mugs to commemorate the Coronation; and I still have mine.” Basil Abbott
Life behind the lens: Ivan J. Underwood Living locally for most of his life, Ivan Underwood’s photography business was based on Victoria Road in Diss. Known by many as “the local photographer”, he was involved in active service with Bomber Command and took part in over 40 flight missions. He passed away on Monday 23 November 2015, aged 94. His memory lives on in the moving photograph opposite (and many others he took of local scenes and events).
Diss Matters Summer 2022 21
Lighthouse inspires Platinum party
Image: Jerry Rolfe
On Thursday 2 June, Diss park hosts a free,
the Coronation celebrations. This will be
public party in honour of Her Majesty the
regretted, as many who would have gone to
Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Called Glow in
see these will not view the wonderful
the Park, the event will use light in some
transformation at Mere’s Mouth. To offset
of its many forms to mark this special
this, a few residents have a lighthouse
occasion. A lantern procession, beacon
which will be built in the centre of the
lighting ceremony, spectacular firework
Mere.”
display and street-theatre sensations, LED
This idea was well-received. Particularly by
drumming troupe Spark!, will all make
local businessman and barber, Dan Jones.
Diss “glow”. But there’s more to the theme
“I read with interest of a lighthouse being
than a simple love of lights. Let’s look at
placed on the Mere by a ‘Real Dissean’,”
the inspiration behind the event.
wrote Mr Jones in the following edition of the Diss Express. “We are grateful that
What no fireworks?
somebody has thought of something to
In June 1953*, someone calling themselves
liven our Diss Coronation celebrations.
a ‘Real Dissean’, wrote to the Diss Express
Since the council has done such a good job
with concerns about the forthcoming
of work to the mouth of the Mere.”
Coronation celebrations. Saddened about
Appreciative of his interest and enthusiastic
the lack of fireworks, they suggested an
response, the ‘Real Dissean’ swiftly invited
alternative. A lighthouse on the Mere.
Mr Jones to attend the event. And play a
“In reading through your paper of May 1st,”
part in proceedings.
says the Real Dissean “It is noted that there
“It is now certain that the lighthouse will be
will be no fireworks on the Mere to finish
in position on the Mere on Saturday,” said
22 Diss Matters Summer 2022
the ‘Real Dissean’. “To Mr Dan Jones is the
The ‘lighthouse’ was taken around the town
honour of switching on the lights at
on a lorry on Friday night, a collection being
9.30pm.”
made en route, and on Saturday night it was cited on the Mere in the presence of a
The Three Bs
large company. The lights, which are
Aware that many residents would be away
intermittent, came on and Mr Roger Bryant
on the Saturday, plans to parade the
was rowed out to it by Mr S. F. Bedford, a
lighthouse round the town the night before
rather precarious crossing. On arriving
were revealed. And so, the event was born,
safely, Mr Bryant christened it ‘The Three Bs’
powered by a team they called ‘The Three
by breaking a gaily decorated bottle of
Bs’. Here’s how the Diss Express reported it
“wine” on the framework.
back in 1953.
“This was followed by trips around the
“At last, there is a lighthouse on the Mere at
lighthouse at 1/- per head. Mr Bedford
Diss, the same being placed in position on
being the “skipper” and several availed
Saturday night, and at 9.30 it started to
themselves of the offer.
show forth alternate white, green and red
“The sum raised for the lighthouse fund was
lights. Though not part of the Coronation
£10 and Mr. Roger Bryant expresses his
effort, it does impart a little novelty. The
thanks.
idea originated with Mr Roger Bryant who
“On Tuesday, at midnight, the lighthouse
thought it would be an opportunity to help
keeper must have slept because it was
the Lifeboat Fund. And he had the willing
partially destroyed by fire. We believe this
assistance of Mr A. E. Betts of sweet fame
was done intentionally by the organiser, but
who erected the frame and covering. Mr L.
it would not burn.”
A. Boggis who provided and installed the electrical equipment, and many others.
*The Coronation took place over a year
“Below the lights were seagulls and at the
after the Queen’s accession to the throne in
base crabs etc. and sea birds.
1952.
Glow in the Park takes place in Diss park on Thursday 2 June 2022 from 4pm to 10.30pm. It’s free! And everyone’s welcome. Event includes: live music, street food, a lantern procession, beacon lighting ceremony and a spectacular firework finale followed by a headline performance from street-theatre LED drummers, Spark!. More information: www.facebook.com/DissTC/events/ Photo: Lucy Kayne
Diss Matters Summer 2022 23
24 Diss Matters Summer 2022
Museum reopening gets royal treatment
In March, about 100 people, many in
the tape to open the museum.
Edwardian costume, enjoyed Diss’s first
The building was decorated with British
royal visit for 156 years.
and Danish bunting, as the Queen was Danish. Jonny Ling provided barrel organ
Part of Diss Museum’s grand reopening,
music and Ray Russell played the bagpipes.
King Edward VII (Bernard Thorndyke) and
Museum Manager Basil Abbott, who acted
Queen Alexandra (Keshar Whitelock) paid a
as MC, said: “It was a terrific event and the
return visit to the town they passed
perfect start to the town’s Platinum Jubilee
through in 1866 as Prince and Princess of
celebrations. It’s good to be open again
Wales.
after our lengthy closure and we’re pleased
Arriving in an open-topped Beauford car,
to be able to open and share collections
they were greeted by Town Mayor,
that are particularly relevant in this, the
Councillor Eric Taylor, and presented with
Queen’s Platinum Jubilee year. Our
flowers by Arthur (7) and Ivy (6) Bishop-
Austerity Years display fits in with the
Smith.
Coronation period. We also have a cabinet
Chris Mordey recited Tennyson’s poem
with royal mugs and memorabilia and a
about the Queen, who then went on to
wall display of newspapers and pictures of
address the crowd before presenting prizes
Diss at the time. We look forward to
for the best costumes. The King then cut
welcoming visitors back.” Diss Matters Summer 2022 25
The great ‘Comeback Carnival’ The annual Diss Carnival is back – and you’re all invited! On Sunday 3 July, the ‘The Great-Diss Showman’ procession will make its way through the town, ending at the park where more fun awaits. There will be craft and food stalls, entertainers, live music, have-a-go activities, and a whole lot more. Hosted by ringleader, Paul Preston Mills, the show goes on after the procession has finished, with fun for all the family (even the pets!). Titan the Robot (who you may have seen on this year’s ‘Britain’s Got Talent’) will be performing his unique mix of comedy and street theatre, the Foolhardy Folk will be showing us their circus skills, and the amazing Lost in Translation circus artistes will be flying funfair and, of course, our well-loved Fun Dog Show.
“
Diss Carnival is special. I particularly enjoy the whole feel of the day, the atmosphere and the 'togetherness’! Amy Bobbins, Tribe ALL Fitness
”
In keeping with the theme, the committee has lots planned to make sure that this year’s Comeback Carnival is a real showstopper. But, with your help, they can make it even better. They’re still interested in hearing from stallholders, crafters, entertainment providers, procession entrants, event sponsors, window dressing competition entrants and volunteers. So, if you’re keen to get involved, please get in touch.
26 Diss Matters Summer 2022
ills
M reston
Paul P
through the air!! Not forgetting Larry Gray’s
Lost in Tran
slation
y Circus
Foolhard
Follow @DissCarnival on Facebook for updates and news of this year’s attractions as they get announced. If you want to get involved, forms are available at: diss.gov.uk/diss-carnival
Titan the Robot
Diss Matters Summer 2022 27
A play park for all Play equipment is vital for children’s
TALK TUBES
social, physical and emotional
These promote social interaction,
development. And we know how
imaginative play, speech development and
important the playground in Diss park is
turn-taking (both in speaking and listening).
in supporting this. Which is why we’re
Ages: 2+
committed to keeping it current, updated,
Requires: 2 users
interactive, inclusive and, most
INCLUSIVE ELEMENTS
importantly, fun!
• Stimulate hearing capacities • Accessible at ground level for wheelchairs
If you’ve visited Diss park in the last few months, you’ll have noticed several new additions to the play area. Using feedback from a public consultation last summer, we
• Suitable for children with visual impairments • Children with learning difficulties will encounter appropriate types of stimulation
sourced three different designs that were better suited to 4 to 8-year-olds and
MUSICAL FLOWER PLAY PANELS
children with additional needs.
These encourage physical and practical play and improve coordination and
We asked you to choose your favourite. And
concentration.
a design by equipment maker Proludic,
Ages: 1+
which featured a fully wheelchair accessible
Requires: 3 users
seesaw, came out on top. The new
INCLUSIVE ELEMENTS
equipment, acquired using allocated park
• Encourages communication for children
play equipment funds, has now been installed. And it’s been a big hit with children of all ages and abilities so far.
with autism • The flowers provide visual stimulation through movement, bright colours and contrast
So, what’s there to explore? What makes it
• The curved shape of each stem means
so inclusive? And how can it support your
optimal user-friendliness for children in
child’s development? Let’s look.
wheelchairs GIANT FOUR IN A ROW Encourages role play and social play. Has 48 movable red and yellow sliding discs that easily glide around the panel. Ages: 2+ Requires: 2 users INCLUSIVE ELEMENTS • Sensory, tactile
28 Diss Matters Summer 2022
INCLUSIVE ELEMENTS • Encourages communication for children with autism • The wheel provides visual stimulation through movement and sound • The low-level height is suitable for children in wheelchairs DIABOLO MULTIPLAY UNIT Encourages role play, climbing, sliding, TIC TAC TOE
meeting, resting, handling, hiding and
Develops logical understanding and
thinking.
improves coordination. The colours are high
Ages: 2+
contrasting and the Os and Xs are all laser
Accommodates up to 25 users
cut, so the game can be played through
INCLUSIVE ELEMENTS
sight or touch.
• Motor, sensory and mental inclusion
Ages: 3+
• Tactile Stimulation
Requires: 2 users INCLUSIVE ELEMENTS • Installed at wheelchair transfer height • The Os and Xs are laser cut making this item suitable for children with visual impairments • Children with learning difficulties encounter appropriate types of stimulation • Predominantly a 2-player game, a child can build stronger connections with their peers and communicate through playing.
WHEELCHAIR SPRINGER SEESAW Encourages balancing, role play, swinging,
KINETIC SHIP WHEEL
resting and social skills.
Powered purely by kinetic energy, this fun
Ages: 3 +
wheel comes with a USB stick so it can
Accommodates up to 6 users
generate its own sound. Great for role-
INCLUSIVE ELEMENTS
playing, kids can be a pilot, pirate or
• Motor, sensory and mental inclusion
experience the feeling of a driver in the
• Suitable for wheelchair users
cockpit. Turn the wheel and create your own electricity. Ages: 3+ Required: 2 users Diss Matters Summer 2022 29
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30 Diss Matters Summer 2022
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Diss says “bonjour!” to boules Hidden away on the outskirts of town,
(cochonette). In the original version, a
there’s a little bit of France. Tucked away
player was allowed to take one or two steps
discreetly behind Diss Town’s football
before throwing. In the more recent
ground, look carefully and you’ll find a
version, each player must stand and throw
small hut, a shelter with five chairs, an
from inside a circle scratched in the dirt.
array of unusual wooden objects on a
There’s no difference between petanque
table, and some intriguing red, white and
and boules, other than the name. In
blue stakes with numbers on them
France, they call it boules. In England, the
marking the edge of a gravel pit.
game is called petanque but it is played
Welcome to the Diss Waveney
using boules.
Petanque Club. National champions The club regularly competes against others in the area. “Most other teams are in mid-Norfolk,” says club member Malcom Butcher. “We’re currently in Division 2 of the Norfolk League, but we have previously played in Division 1. We have some very good players, some of them even compete at national level. Les and Di Shilling, for example, won in the 2021 Inter-Regional Championship and Challenge at Melton Mowbray. We’ve also recruited a few more county players to add to the two we Affiliated to the national petanque
already have, so this year we’re hoping for
association, Petanque England, the Diss
promotion again.”
club was formed in the late 1990s, and moved to Diss Town Football Club in 2004. Here, they built a 'piste' (the name of the terrain on which petanque is played) and
Diss Petanque Club practices on Monday
have been playing there ever since. Some
evenings, Wednesday afternoons and
of the original players are still in action at
Saturday mornings at Diss Town FC,
the club!
Brewers Lane, Diss IP22 4QP. Match
Petanque or boules? Whatever goes Petanque was devised in 1910 in a French town called La Ciotat. It was originally called jeu Provencal and involved players
nights are on Thursdays. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call Malcolm Butcher on 01379 740494 or email: hbutcherdell@gmail.com
throwing a ball (boule) at a target ball Diss Matters Summer 2022 31
New on the market Situated in the heart of Diss, our historic
month and we always have specials such as
Market Place hosts a traditional, bustling
previews of new flavours and exclusive bakes.
Friday market all year round. There are
“Thank you to everyone in Diss that
also a few traders who sell on a Saturday
continues to support us! We love seeing
and weekdays too.
familiar faces, hearing your feedback, and
Most of our traders have been here a
making new friends!
while. One of our regulars has been on the market for 43 years! We love our long-
Florenco’s Coffee
standing sellers. But we also like new
Conor Florence launched Florenco’s Coffee
blood too. And recently, we’ve been
at the end of 2020 during lockdown aged
excited to accommodate several new
just 18 years old. Powered by his true
market traders – and we’d love you to
passion forPhoto: coffee, he loved the idea of Photo Elite, Market Hill, Diss
meet them.
being able to take that everywhere.
“We serve from our vintage rice horsebox, Brownie and the Bean
which I bought in January 2020,” says Conor.
Charlotte and Luke Giddings, founders of Brownie and the Bean, moved to Diss just over four years ago from London to open a food and drink business. After a lot of research, they landed on the idea of having a converted horse trailer as a mobile café, serving coffee, cocktails, and Luke's mother's secret family brownie recipe. “We spent our first year doing events,
“It ended up becoming a great lockdown
festivals, and pop-ups,” says Charlotte.
project where I worked on the trailer and developed my drinks recipes. “We sell a full range of espresso-based coffee drinks, seasonal specials including our best-selling LOADED hot chocolates and a great selection of teas. I also love supporting local suppliers for our delicious range of ‘sweet treats’, including triple chocolate brownies, flapjacks and rocky
“Sadly, when COVID hit, we decided to shut
road. When we’re not doing specialist
the hatch for good and start selling our
events you can find us serving in North
brownies on their own.
Lopham and Diss town centre.
“The brownies were always popular among
“Diss is a hub of activity and throws some
the people of Diss, so it made perfect sense
pretty spectacular events, which we have
to get a space on the Thursday market. You
loved being a part of so far and hope to be
can find us there on the last Thursday of the
a part of for years to come.”
32 Diss Matters Summer 2022
PrettysWax
Lola & Me Dog Treats
PrettysWax was created in March 2021 by
On 25 June 2020, Penny Gibson and her
mother and son, Di and Tom Pretty. They
family embarked on a 15-hour round trip to
sell 100% soy wax melts, in recyclable
pick up Lola, a 4-year-old French Bulldog.
packaging.
And within weeks Lola & Me Dog Treats was
“We absolutely love our home to smell
born.
amazing and wanted to create the same
“In 2020, after suffering a breakdown, I took
experience for all of our customers,” says
a long look at my work-life balance,” says
Di. “We offer high quality products at very
Penny. “With a passion for our four-legged
affordable prices.”
friends, I decided that a dog would give me
Di was born in the Two Brewers pub in Diss.
a reason to get up every morning and enjoy
When an opportunity came to sell her
Norfolk’s great outdoors.
products in her hometown, she jumped at the chance. “What better place to reach Diss and customers from the surrounding area than to join the market traders on Diss Market Place. I love our town! “We first started selling on Diss market back in November 2021, every Friday until Christmas Eve. We also traded at the Diss Christmas lights switch-on. We met many
“As soon as I saw Lola I knew this would be
amazing people who have since become
an unbreakable bond. She needed a special
regulars.”
diet and this, combined with my passion to bake, sparked the idea of a dog treat business. “Our dog treats are all fresh, homemade, vegan and gluten-free and have no added sugar or salt. “Each month we go from strength to strength with new products, ideas and a passion for life. Lola has a new life and so do I.”
Due to full-time work commitments, PrettysWax now attend Diss market one Saturday per month and customers can also buy products online at www.prettyswax.com with free local
If you’d like to apply for a pitch on our market, visit our website: www.diss.gov.uk/market-place
delivery. Diss Matters Summer 2022 33
Games Puzzles Gifts Pokémon, Games Workshop & more! Email:thedealerschoicediss@gmail.com Facebook: @thedealerschoicediss Instagram: @thedealerschoicediss Discord.gg/h86SrkQxCH Telephone: 07949576180 St Nicholas Street, Diss (Under Albright Crafts)
Park House, Mere Street, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4JY. 01379 643555 Offices also in Harleston, Ipswich and Felixstowe. www.jackamans.co.uk
34 Diss Matters Summer 2022
Publishing is our business
We can produce your publication free of charge, contact us for further details: Units 10a -11, Red House Yard, Gislingham Road, Thornham Magna, Eye, Suffolk IP23 8HH 01379 773347 gary@falconpublications.co.uk www.falconpublications.co.uk
Diss Matters Summer 2022 35
Rotary round-up Diss Waveney Rotary Club What’s Diss Waveney Rotary Club been up to over the past few months? President Elaine Bootman – provides an update. illustrated dictionaries were presented to Motivating speakers
Year 5 pupils in ten local schools.
We’ve been lucky to have welcomed some
In December, we hosted a performance by
inspiring speakers so far this year. Rachel
Fine City Chorus with all proceeds going to
Walsh, from the mental health charity
Rotary’s End Polio Now campaign. We also
MIND, explained the work of the charity.
organised for Santa, his sleigh and elves to
Cecile Roberts, CEO of Emmaus Norfolk and
visit the Mere. Thanks to the generosity of
Waveney, talked about a project based in
Diss residents, we raised a total of £800
Ditchingham, helping the homeless rebuild
which was distributed equally between our
their lives. We welcomed Kieran Murphy,
four nominated charities: the Salvation
Diss Town Council’s youngest councillor,
Army (Diss branch), Citizen’s Advice branch,
who spoke about what inspired him to join
the Dove Dementia Café and the Banham
at such a young age. In March, Patricia Field,
Zoo Conservation Project.
a consultant graphologist, visited the club to give a presentation about handwriting
International charities supported
analysis. And in April, Robin Wraight spoke
Monies to purchase three water survival
about Rotary’s many youth programmes.
boxes to purify water were sent to the Philippines after typhoon Odette.
Business as usual
And, working in partnership with the Diss &
In October 2021, we resumed our regular
District Rotary Club, we held street
Rotary Club meetings at the Park Hotel. It’s
collections at Mere’s Mouth to support the
been great seeing people face-to-face again.
Ukrainian refugee crisis. Combined with our online giving page, we raised over £9,000 in
Memorable events
the first week and almost £20,000 in the
It was my privilege to lay the club’s wreath
second. The generosity of the Diss
at the Remembrance Day service on Sunday
community was tremendous. The first
November 14. Several other members
tranche of money left promptly, on 7 March,
guided people around the new route to the
for the Diss & District Rotary partner club in
memorial, making a real difference on the
Moldova.
day. The club’s Youth Team organised a very
Local service projects
successful musical evening to raise funds
Many of our club members helped with the
for Dictionaries4Life. Part of Rotary’s Basic
COVID vaccination roll-out programme at
Education and Literacy Focus, these
the DYCC and at Diss High School.
36 Diss Matters Summer 2022
Rotary round-up Diss & District Rotary Club Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbours, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. Club Secretary David Crawford explains how this makes Rotary well-placed as an organisation to act and help others in
ended up being almost double this. Using our connection, we were able to channel the money raised directly to Rotarians on the ground in Moldova. Help for Diss A little closer to home, one of our ongoing local Rotary projects is supplying ‘starter boxes’ for the Sanctuary Supported Living project in Diss. Sanctuary provides
times of crisis.
accommodation for the homeless in 26
Help for Ukraine
flats.
Diss & District Rotary Club has a direct relationship with the Chisinau Cosmopolitan Rotary Club in Moldova. And when the war broke out in Ukraine, we could quickly see how we could make a difference. During the first week of the war, we joined up with the Diss Waveney Rotary Club and quickly mobilised a team of street collectors in Diss. Thanks to the generosity of the people of Diss and the surrounding area, we reached our first milestone of £10,000 in the first week. Our overall total
purpose-built rooms and self-contained The boxes we provide contain the essentials for a person moving into accommodation for the first time. Rotary members, and friends of Rotary, donate most of the items. But we’re always grateful for the generosity of local townsfolk who either contribute new or used goods for boxes, or money to buy new items. The number of boxes supplied varies depending on the need at Sanctuary. But as a guide, over the last 15 months we’ve supplied 20 boxes and keep a small stock ready for when we receive the ‘call’.
Diss Matters Summer 2022 37
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Time for change
Plagued by flies?
Our trade prices Easy Mixes: are current ly: 25 or £92.50 Onion Bhaji – £46.25 per box per box above. of 50. (£1.85 of each sachet) Veg Pakora Spice same as Kits: Chicken Jalfrezi, Tikka Chicken Masala, Korma, Chicken Goan Pork Vindaloo Lamb Rogan Gobi, Josh, , Bombay Thai Green Potatoes, Curry, £21.00 Aloo Thai Red per box Curry of 12. – all (£1.75 Lentil each box) Dhal – £22.20 each box) per box of 12.
Spiced (£1.99
ping.co.uk www.broadscam
Thai Red
Thai Green
Curry
Curry
Our Spice Kits and dishes, Easy Mixes from produce to authentic aromatic appetizer delicious spicy s such spicy curries, products as onion offering without bhajis value-for comprom It doesn’t -money ising on matter taste or if you are and ingredien quality. unsure ts to use about what ready-pre spices pared herb because our products, follow and spice with their recipe instructio blends and simple-to work for ns on the you. Plus pack, do you can vegetable all the buy s from hard your favourite local fresh are serving meat and the very retailer, unlike to be sure best quality ready-me you als. Recomm food to your Easy Mixes: family ended – retail
Onion Bhaji Veg Pakora Sachet – £2.75 Sachet – £2.75 Spice Kits: Lamb Rogan Josh – Chicken £2.75 Tikka Chicken Masala – £2.75 Jalfrezi Aloo Gobi – £2.75 Bombay – £2.75 Potatoes Spiced – £2.75 Lentil Dhal – Chicken £2.99 Korma Goan – £2.75 Pork Thai Green Vindaloo – £2.75 Curry Thai Red – £2.75 Curry – £2.75
prices
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Would you like an eye-catching leaflet to increase business? Then we can help. We can offer a design and print service creating a leaflet to catch your customers’ attention. Any quantity, large or small, to fit within your budget. For further details of leaflet print and other direct-mail marketing, contact Gary on 01379 773347 or gary@falconpublications.co.uk
Leaflet print & design service
38 Diss Matters Summer 2022
NEW ON THE HIGH STREET:
Balloon business takes off New shop, ‘Make It Special’ has recently
What’s in stock?
opened its doors at the top of St Nicholas
The shop sells a variety of gift balloons and
Street. We find out more about owner,
displays for special occasions, from
Kelly Aziz, why she decided to set up shop,
birthdays, baby showers, christenings,
and what her plans are.
engagements and graduations to well wishes and more. There’s also a range of
Keeping it local
soft toys and baby items, along with a small
The wife of local businessman, and local,
selection of bridal party items.
phone-saving superhero, Roy Aziz, Kelly’s
If you opt for a gift balloon, Kelly will inflate
initial thoughts when seeing that the shop
it for you using either air or helium. You can
on St Nicholas Street was up for rent, was as a base for her husband’s popular business, Fonemagic. Happy working from his home workshop, Roy decided to stay put – but the opportunity got Kelly thinking.
choose to have items displayed inside your balloon and even have it personalised. They also stock a variety of artificial flowers, which can be used to create a balloon “The shop side of things happened so
display in the form of a hat box filled with
quickly,” said Kelly. “The idea came up just
flowers.
after the new year. From within a week of going to look at the shop, I had the keys in
What’s next?
my hand. Then the hard work began.”
Kelly’s fun, imaginative and entrepreneurial
Kelly has lived with her family in Diss for her
outlook is reflected in the displays and
whole life, so the chance to open a shop in
decor in place throughout the shop. And it’s
her hometown was even more special.
this creativity that will continue to drive the
“I’ve had great support from other local
business forwards.
independent shops within the town too,”
“I’ve really enjoyed setting up the shop, the
said Kelly. “Given what everyone has been
business, and the brand,” said Kelly. “And
through over the past two years, I felt I
I’m looking forward to trying out new ideas
wanted to grab this opportunity to support
and introducing different stock to suit
my hometown by opening another small
different occasions.”
independent shop.”
Diss Matters Summer 2022 39
Open: Mon-Fri: 6.30am-8pm Sat: 7am-6pm Sun: 8am-5.30pm
40 Diss Matters Summer 2022
Diss youth update activities aimed at encouraging youth voice and participation. On April 5, we held our first intergenerational event, which was a great success. Supported by Diss Town Council, Diss Bowls Club and South Norfolk Youth Advisory Board, our young people provided a delicious ‘Spring Luncheon’ for some of the town’s older residents. A two-course meal was followed by a hot drink and a Youth and Community Worker, Julia Fairbrother, provides a round-up of youth activities in and around the town. Diss Youth Group (DYG) returns to the DYCC After a year and a half of Zoom sessions due to COVID, we opened our doors again at the Diss Youth & Community Centre (DYCC) in October 2021, with the support of Diss Town Council. Since then, we’ve been going from strength to strength, with 36 young people joining our weekly sessions
delicious homemade hot cross cookie. The guests were also given handmade Easter cards, truffles and decorations to take away. Quaker Wood sessions resume Our regular conservation sessions at Quaker Wood have started up again. Supported by Richard, Mike and the Quaker Wood Steering Group, these sessions give young people the chance to learn new practical skills, find out more about the environment and enjoy time outside with nature.
for games, crafts, cooking and more. Diss Youth Work receives Community Grant MTM Youth Services CIC was delighted to receive a Community Grant from Diss Town Council to deliver more youth projects in the town this year. Our aim is to use the funding to deliver projects that will help 11 to 19-year-olds engage positively in and with their community, take pride and social action, and access wider experiences with other organisations. Opportunities include volunteering, supporting the FareShare food scheme, intergenerational events, and other
DYG sessions run term-time on Wednesdays, from 7 to 8.30pm. If you’re a young person and have ideas of what you would like in Diss, are interested in joining us at Quaker Wood, or in other volunteering opportunities, please contact Julia Fairbrother on 07546 059061 or email julia@mtmyouthservices.org.uk Diss Matters Summer 2022 41
Richard Walpole Roofing • Serving Diss and the surrounding area • Competitively priced • Offering local and airport service • Hospital, nights out, days out, shopping etc • DBS checked and local council approved Book in advance when possible by calling Robin on 07432 255085 or by email on robinstaxisdiss@gmail.com
• New Roofs • Re Roofs • Roof Repairs • Leadwork • Chimneys Repointed • Fascia, Soffit and Guttering FULLY INSURED
Tel:
07747 784742
For all your broken smart phones, tablets & other devices
Roy Aziz
07985 216761 www.fonemagic.co.uk
8 Appletree Lane, Roydon, Diss IP22 4FL
please park on my driveway
(t) 01379 642051 (m) 07776 305104 Car Sales Sawmills Road, Diss. www.diss-carcentre.co.uk 42 Diss Matters Summer 2022
Diss Matters Summer 2022 43
• Exclusive Ranges • Enhanced Eye Examinations • Contact Lenses • Dry Eye Clinic • First Class Service 12 Market Place, Diss IP22 4AB dippleconway.co.uk 01379 642598
