Still making history/Grab a Grant

Diss Museum may have been closed since the start of COVID-19; but its work continues.

Maintaining interest Museum manager, Basil Abbott’s monthly slots on Park Radio have proved popular and help to maintain interest in local history. His book, ‘Call Back the Past: Giving a Buzz to History’ has secured the museum an income even in lockdown. His presentation about the R34 airship is booked up well into next year. And his historic town tours continue, with Mr Abbott leading one in September for former UEA members as part of a university hosting scheme.

Behind closed doors The museum is still asking for help with research and offered items for donation. (Among this year’s donated items were the personal effects of a local senior policeman.) And, behind closed doors, work still goes on to prepare the displays, with Basil Abbott’s large collection of neckties among the fresh material. It is hoped that the museum will be able to reopen its doors soon. Watch this space. So far this year, Diss Town Council has provided financial assistance to Norfolk Threads CIC, which is now promoting its second series of free art and wellbeing courses at The Corn Hall. And the good news is, there’s still £16k of Community Grant funding left. If you meet the criteria, why not apply?

Helping Diss Youth Work We’ve had many worthy recipients over the years, including the Diss Youth Work team who have used money to run local projects such as: • conservation work at Quaker Wood • gardening in the community • ‘A brush with the Past’ and ‘Elephant on the Green’ history projects • intergenerational dining • Community litterpicking • The Diss Youth Town Council, and the • Fareshare Food scheme. Find out more about applying for a grant at: https://www.diss.gov.uk/community-grantscheme