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
