A mayoral update After a slow start to
archery, climbing, canoeing, kayaking and
the mayoral year
many more. And the good news is, it’s not
due to COVID
just open to Scouts and Guides, but also to
restrictions, Mayor
the public with holiday clubs, birthday
Councillor Eric
parties and day passes all available.
Taylor’s calendar
15 August
leapt into life
I held my car boot sale in the park on what
during the summer.
was a lovely sunny day. There were more
Find out where he’s
than 60 pitches and lots of customers, and
been, who he’s met
together we raised £300 for my nominated
and what he’s been
charity Mind.
up to.
4 September
My diary
Early in September, I travelled to How Hill
So far this year, I’ve attended many events,
Trust, near Great Yarmouth for Norfolk
in addition to my regular council and
County Council Chairman Cllr Penny
committee meetings. Events like these are a
Carpenter’s Reception.
chance to promote Diss, support the
The Trust is a renowned environmental
organiser’s charities and engage and
educational charity, based in the landmark
network with other chairmen and senior
How Hill House overlooking beautiful
officers at parish, district and county council
gardens, wetlands, historic windmills,
levels. Here are some highlights of my year
woodlands and the River Ant.
so far.
Schoolchildren stay in the house virtually
21 June
every academic week of the year and make
My first event was the Beacon of Hope
full use of its unique position in the heart of
lighting ceremony in the park. A special
the Norfolk Broads National Park.
guest at the event was the High Sheriff of
5 September
Norfolk, Michael Gurney DL. Before the
The next day, was the Big Sing at St Mary’s
ceremony, Mr Gurney tried out both of the
church organised by Gerry Hoskins. It was
new Diss Beacon Trails around the town
my first time at this event, and I can confirm
and surrounding villages and was very
that Gerry was wearing a brightly coloured
complimentary about them.
shirt which is apparently his trademark.
12 August
Aimed at bringing people together,
Another event I attended was a visit to the
churchgoers or not, the Big Sing was very
13.5-acre Eaton Vale Scout and Guide
well supported by the public, with all
Activity Centre in Norwich. The event
monies raised going to the Alzheimer’s
marked the opening of the Iceni House
Society.
accommodation unit after a major fire in
6 September
March 2020 and a £500,000 restoration of
Hot on the heels of the Big Sing came the
the accommodation.
High Sheriff of Norfolk, Michael Gurney DL’s
The range of activities was impressive with
Reception at Cromer Pier. It was a glorious
6 Diss Matters Winter 2021
