Diss Matters Autumn 2019

Meet your new Town Councillors!

Full steam ahead for Christmas Lights Switch-On!

Free Business Growth Club coming to Diss!

Wow, what a Summer it’s been! We

hope you’ve all enjoyed the wonderful sunshine and fantastic town events over the last few months. Thankfully,

the fun doesn’t stop here. With just a couple of months to go until the Diss

Christmas Lights Switch-On, plans are in full swing for another afternoon and evening of festive fun! Check out what’s in store on page 11.

In this issue, we’ve got plenty of community

Looking for upcoming events in the Diss area?

support group, South Norfolk Police, Citizens

on pages 16-17. Don’t forget - if you’re wanting

content - hear from your local dementia Advice Bureau, Diss Waveney Rotary Club and many more. We’d like to thank all of

you for sending us your articles, providing

valuable information for the community and supporting the town!

Fancy getting to know your Council staff?

Look no further than our handy events spread

to advertise a local event for free, we’re

always happy to share information on our website, social media page and in our town

noticeboards. Simply email your event info to towncouncil@diss.gov.uk or drop in a poster to the Town Council offices.

We’ve got an exclusive interview with Diss

With plenty more for you to read and enjoy, sit

Ludkin, on page 9, who tells us all about the

Diss Matters…

Town Council’s Maintenance Manager, Robert

highs and lows of his role after working here

back, relax and enjoy the Autumn edition of

for 13 years. We also hear introductions from

new Town Councillors, Mark Gingell, Doreen Collins and Sue Kiddie, (page 7).

Contents 4

Council News

20

An update from Diss Waveney

5

Diss Museum

Rotary Club

7

New Town Councillors

21

Voluntary Norfolk’s Health

9

Meet the Maintenance Manager

& Wellbeing Service

10

Mistletoe Market

23

Diss Business Growth Hub

11

Diss Christmas Lights Switch-On

24

Diss Fire Brigade - now recruiting!

12

Sean Cole - Heading for Alaska!

25

South Norfolk Police update

13

Diss Citizens Advice Bureau

26-27 Diss Business Forum

14

Lee Johnson - The Corn Hall

28-29 Dementia Support in Diss

15

Upcoming events at the Corn Hall

30

16-17 Events in Diss

Thank you page & Wordsearch

4 Diss Matters . Autumn 2019

Pigeons in Diss The mess left by pigeons is a significant issue in Diss, particularly along Mere Street.

The Town Council was approached some time ago about a potential solution, which involves flying hawks onto affected buildings to discourage the pigeons from roosting in the town with no harm coming to the birds.

Dealey Bird Control & Falconry, supported by the Town Council, has now secured funding from 30 businesses in Diss to pay towards the cost of flying the hawk. The Town Council has committed to funding a proportion of the remaining fees, as has SNDC. The Town Council are working on cleaning initiatives to help keep the town clean.

Littering Recently, we captured images of unnecessary littering within the Shelter Pod on Diss Park. It is a great shame that these individuals could not place their rubbish in the empty litter bin right next to the Pod. Please make sure when using the facilities, all rubbish is placed in the bins provided so that others can enjoy using the space.

Upgraded recreational facilities The new plans to upgrade and repair the Skateboard Park equipment will be completed by the end of October 2019. Diss Park will also be having an uplift following a recent public consultation on the design.

We are very excited to reveal both new looks.

The Youth of Diss voted these two projects to boost recreational provision within Diss. These facilities are being paid for by developer contributions allocated for this purpose only.

Meet your new Town Councillors We’d like to welcome three new councillors - Sue Kiddie, Doreen Collins and Mark Gingell to the Town Council. All have been co-opted by fellow councillors since July. All are active members of the community and are looking forward to engaging with residents and traders to achieve the best for Diss. See page 7 for more.

The role of Town Councillor is voluntary and we still have three vacancies. If you’re passionate about the town and meet the eligibility criteria, visit www.diss.gov.uk/roleofacouncillor to find out more.

Diss Town Mayor’s Civic Service On behalf of the Mayor of Diss, Cllr Sonia Browne, the Council would like to thank all guests who attended her Civic Service on Sunday 1st September at St Mary’s Church. The event was well attended with over 100 dignitaries and members of the community joining together to celebrate Sonia’s Mayoral year.

Thank you for your support and generosity in donating towards this year’s chosen charities; Papyrus and Norfolk’s Big C.

Diss Town Clerk, Sarah

Richards

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 5

TO DISS MUSEUM -

did This is a thank you for all of the work that you first the of ary centen the te celebra over the weekend to transatlantic flights by the R34. , and Lyn and I really enjoyed joining you and the others the into put you that work the of really appreciated all that time great the for much so you thank weekend tion we both had [despite Lyn's considerable trepida tion!]. expedi airship r spending two full days on anothe y for We spent far too much in Diss - including jewelr and shops lovely the at friends for ts presen Lyn and on, restaurants in the town - so please pass our thanks too, to residents and retailers.

Diss Museum Museum manager Basil Abbott received this letter after the R34 airship commemoration in July. It is re-printed here because it reflects well on the residents and retailers of the town as well as the Museum.

- and We really enjoyed every aspect of the celebrations an recognise how much effort goes into putting such event on. My grateful thanks.

Best wishes and thank you Peter Peter Harris Southwell, Nottinghamshire

Victoria Road, Diss (next to Diss Swimming Pool) Telephone 01379 642873

“We are deeply grateful for the kindness and compassion you extended to our family during this difficult time.

You have touched our hearts.”

– from a family we have cared for at Rosedale

Victoria Rd, Diss 01379 640810 www.rosedalefuneralhome.co.uk

We are a family business and promise to provide exceptional care and a truly personal 24 hour service, when you need it most.

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 7

Meet your new Diss Town Councillors After graduating, I had the following careers; Teacher, Maths Co-ordinator, SEN Co-Ordinator, Finance Director of an ICT company, Senior Management Team, Head of Centre at a Pupil Referral Unit and Assistant Headteacher.

I am currently a Benefits Form Specialist at Diss Citizens Advice Bureau and have a passion for Education, Finance, Business and Service provision.

In my spare time, I enjoy painting miniatures, horse racing, board games, dog walking, table tennis, walking and cycling. I currently hold the titles of Slimming World’s ‘Greatest Loser of 2019’ and ‘Man of the Year 2019’ at a Slimming World group in Diss.

Mark Gingell

I decided to become a councillor as I believed that the Council could utilise my knowledge, experience and skills to benefit the people who live, work and visit Diss. I am proud of the way local residents rally together to support a variety of town events. I look forward to engaging with the community to help resolve local issues.

Our family moved to the Diss area in 1988 having previously lived in Wymondham, London and Brooke. I started work at the Tourist Information Centre when it opened in 1989 and left the year it closed in 2016. Working at the Tourist Office gave me opportunities to meet and help visitors from all over the world and I felt privileged to meet many of the Diss residents and businesses- and next to the Mere too!

I am best known for my voluntary involvement in many key projects and events in Diss including Diss Carnival, Floral Diss and I am currently a member of the Diss Town Team.

My interests have mainly been in sport and I represented my school in Netball, Tennis and also at County Level in High Jump. I am a season ticket holder at Norwich City Football Club.

Diss is a very friendly town and its residents and visitors deserve a pleasant attractive town to work, relax and shop and I will endeavour to work towards this end as a Town Councillor.

Doreen Collins

I have lived in Diss for the best part of 25 years and currently own Tatters Boutique in Mere Street. My children went to school in Diss and I have run businesses in Diss since 2009. I am married to Keith Kiddie, a former Diss Town Mayor who is a District & County Councillor.

I decided to become a councillor as I have a direct interest in what happens in the town and the wellbeing of Diss.

I have been actively involved in the traders’ forum, I am a committee member for Diss Carnival and I have been chairman of a PTA. Having been a market trader and now running a shop in the Town, I believe that I can bring a local business’ perspective to the Council.

Sue Kiddle

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 9

Meet the Maintenance Manager

Robert has been working as a Maintenance Manager at Diss Town Council for 13 years and manages a small team of 5 maintenance members. He oversees maintenance of all 11 Councilowned properties.

Robert, you’ve been working here for many years now. Tell us a bit about your role: As well as looking after maintenance issues in the town, I also look after health and safety.

The job role is very varied - from assisting the maintenance team and office staff with daily Council duties to solving issues reported by the public.

What’s a typical week for you at Diss Town Council?

Every week is different and I haven’t got enough pages to go through everything we tackle in a week but duties can include anything from organising labour to marking out graves and handling ongoing issues.

I am in charge of ordering equipment to ensuring all jobs are completed in a timely manner and dealing with all health and safety on site.

Along with the market supervisor, I oversee the traditional Friday market in town and make sure everything runs smoothly for traders and customers.

Name some of your highlights in the job this year

What are you most passionate about in your role?

I enjoy helping to plan town events including Diss Christmas Switch-On and Diss Carnival.

I feel passionate about delivering good customer service. It gives me great job satisfaction knowing that someone has reported an issue to us which we have addressed that very same day for them.

Another highlight for me was working together with play equipment providers to upgrade the Diss Park and Skateboard Park. I am very excited to see the finished product and the community enjoying it.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself: I have spent 26 ½ years as a voluntary steward at Norwich Theatre Royal.

I am also pleased to have secured a new workshop and staff room for my maintenance team.

What do you find most challenging about your role?

It can be very difficult to achieve everything we’d ideally like with the restricted budget we have. The weather also plays a significant factor in the maintenance duties as it can often limit the jobs we can do outside. A recurring problem in the town is vandalism which is very frustrating for the maintenance staff who work very hard to make sure Council-owned sites are clean and tidy. This issue means the team are distracted away from their normal duties and have to spend hours trying to clean up the unnecessary mess.

It can also be challenging trying to meet residents’ expectations. A typical example of this is a report of an overgrown hedge beside the road. Unfortunately, our Town Council is not responsible for maintaining all hedges/verges in the town. We try to educate the public on who is responsible for the various sites around Diss. Check out our handy A-Z of services online to find useful contacts for reporting issues in the town: https://diss.gov.uk/a-z-of-services/

A final word…

In the last year, the Town Council has seen a big change in staff and councillors which has been a challenge at times. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all past and present staff for their hard work at the Council and I look forward to working together to achieve the best for Diss.

10 Diss Matters . Autumn 2019

Mistletoe Market Diss Methodist Church will be holding their annual Mistletoe Market on Saturday 7th December 10am – 2pm. This year, the event will be opened by Diss Town Mayor, Cllr Sonia Browne.

Mid-morning, coffee/tea and mince pies will be on offer, there will also be lunches.

Lunches will consist of homemade soup, choice of 3 and homemade pudding, also a choice of 3, served with either custard or ice-cream. Tea/coffee to finish.

We have a variety of stalls with some lovely items for sale and there will also be lots of games to enjoy.

Charities supported “Goodwill children’s villages” India, and “Action for Children” which this year will be the 150 anniversary.

Come and enjoy the lovely atmosphere of this event!

For more information, contact Myra Stannard 01379 644 401 or email myra.s@uwclub.net

We have over 30 years’ experience finding temporary and permanent work for candidates throughout East Anglia.

With offices in Diss, Norwich & Thetford, we provide Recruitment That Works For You in the following sectors: Catering | Commercial | Driving | Engineering | Industrial

Give us a call on 01379 777877 or pop into our office on Mere Street to see what we have available!

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 11

12 Diss Matters . Autumn 2019

On 15th September Sean Cole flies out to Alaska to start an epic journey – cycling from the Arctic Circle south through Alaska, Canada, USA and onward – possibly as far as the southern tip of South America!

As a schoolboy BMX rider, Sean started working for Madgetts Cycles in 2004 and has become a very accomplished cyclist and mechanic. He is also well known in the area at Eye Martial Art club and of course Diss Cycling Club – both of which should help him on his big adventure. One of his other hobbies is photography so expect great pictures if you follow his travels on facebook, instagram and YouTube.

Anyone who hasn’t been able to say goodbye to him at Madgetts Cycles shop can send a message via his website or just check he’s still alive…

www.bikingwithatent.com

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 13

Citizens Advice needs volunteers for telephone or email advice We can all face problems that seem complicated or overwhelming.

No one should have to face these problems without access to free, independent and confidential advice. Citizens Advice offers a free service to give people the knowledge and the confidence they need to find their way forward - whoever they are, and whatever their issue.

We are currently recruiting volunteers to join the Norfolk Digital Hub, to help local clients accessing Citizens Advice services via telephone and email. You’ll be part of a very friendly team based in Diss or Thetford. The work is busy and varied but very rewarding. Full training, support and expenses will be provided.

Our volunteers come from a wide variety of backgrounds, just like our clients. Volunteering is an excellent way of gaining new skills to boost your future job prospects, refreshing existing skills or using simply using your free time to help others.

Some of the benefits of volunteering with Citizens Advice include: • • • •

learning new skills meeting new people helping others challenging yourself

If you have a good telephone manner and are confident in using a computer then this could be just the opportunity for you. For an informal

chat please contact Janis Britland, Digital Hub Coordinator, at Janis.britland@cadat.org.uk or

drop in to our Diss office on Shelfanger Road any weekday between 10 and 3, except Tuesday, and

leave your details with reception. Advisers will be

required to volunteer primarily on a Tuesday but there is flexibility around this.

14 Diss Matters . Autumn 2019

Life at The Corn Hall… with Operations Manager, Lee Johnson

I first came across this fantastic venue in 2010 back when I had set up a now defunct theatre company called Nudge Productions.

It was going to be the next big thing to rival the National Theatre – however, I am sure they weren’t quaking in their boots for long.

I brought a series of Joe Orton plays here and I think the company played to around 13 people. Our largest audience was with Lady Windermere’s Fan with around 70 people coming to watch it.

I soon realised after, that maybe I wasn’t going to be the next Peter Brook or Trevor Nunn; therefore, I decided to continue my career in the public sector – which I did for a few years.

I have been in post as the Operations Manager here for just under three months and I am loving it. I live on the coast so the 35-mile journey to Diss gives me time to think about new ideas and how we can continue making the Corn Hall a venue for everyone. I love walking up St Nicholas Street every morning, being greeted by the beautiful Corn Hall with its imposing pillars and front entrance, it always slightly takes my breath away.

All of my life I have been involved with the theatre in some form or another, whether it was studying it at university, making an attempt to be an actor, as active member of the audience or directing. The chance of now working in one is a dream come true.

The Corn Hall is an arts venue for everyone. But is it visited by everyone in Diss? I have already mentioned a word in this article, “Imposing”.

Would someone who is not familiar with a theatre or an arts venue enter one which is not imposing, let alone one on your very own doorstep? The Corn Hall is a warm and welcoming arts venue, but we are not just an arts venue. Did you know that you can hire the Corn Hall for your own private event? We can host anything from a wedding reception to a christening, every Friday morning we host the Breakfast Network International Diss and Mere district meetings – I like to think of the Corn Hall as being the largest Dining Room in Diss!

Outreach is another word for learning. It’s

thinking up new ways to get people to come to the Corn Hall and ensuring we are appealing ourselves to the audience of tomorrow. To do this, I would love to hear from you with ideas on how we can achieve this.

Did you know that The Corn Hall is a registered charity and we need the support of you to ensure that we can continue our work in the community and that everyone has access to good quality art and theatre?

If you would like to help out in anyway, please contact our box office on 01379 652241 or email operations@thecornhall.co.uk or visit www.thecornhall.co.uk Lee Johnson Operations Manager www.thecornhall.co.uk

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 15

Corn Hall Autumn Highlights

Our October to December programme is brim full with great events. Here are just a few highlights!

Richard Mabey A life writing about nature Thursday 3rd October, 7.30pm The father of modern nature writing and Roydon resident will talk about his lifetime writing about nature with writer and friend, Terence Blacker.

Corn Hall Beer & Gin Festival Friday 11th October, 5-11pm & Saturday 12th October, 12-11pm Offering a wide range of beer styles and breweries to choose from as well as specialty Gins and more from the Foyer bar, plus live music, great food and a brilliant atmosphere, this is an annual favourite. No entry fee.

A Slightly Naughty Night Out Steve Hewlett & Paul Eastwood Friday 1st November, 8pm A hilarious evening with the BGT legend and the Thursford favourite plus special guest, Ben Langley.

Exhibition of Mike Webb Watercolours and other Whimsies 7th December – 21st January, 10am-4pm A new collection of light-hearted creations by the beloved creator of Mere Quacks and the chance to become the owner of one!

Hall will be: Also live at the Corn ul Sinha, Hazel O’Connor, Pa e Searchers’ The Blues Band, Th Spencer James of the events To find out about all ok tickets, pop coming up and to bo d pick up a into the Corn Hall an k to be mailed brochure, ring and as website: a copy, or check the .uk www.thecornhall.co

Christmas Pantomime Robin Hood 20th-30th December various times LP Creatives are back with what will be the Corn Hall’s funniest and most enjoyable panto yet, so join us and make your festive season a special one for all the family!

16 Diss Matters . Autumn 2019

Summer Events Special Kinda Madness Sat 5th Oct, 8pm-11pm, The Corn Hall, Diss, IP22 4LB Special Kinda Madness bring their Special and Madness tribute act back to Diss after their brilliant shows in 2017 & 2018. Tickets available: www.thecornhall. co.uk or call the Box Office.

Bressingham Hall Wedding Show Sun 6th Oct, 11am-3pm, Bressingham Hall & Gardens, IP22 2AA Free Entry A great opportunity to view the venue, explore the gardens and discuss your requirements with the array of quality suppliers exhibiting on the day.

Annual Beer & Gin Festival with Live Music Fri 11th - Sat 12th Oct evenings, The Corn Hall, Diss . No entry fee Collectors beer glasses available. The Big Grain Bar will be back in the main hall with a wide range of beer styles and breweries. Meanwhile, a great range of gins with mixers and garnishes will be available from the Foyer Bar plus the usual full bar options. Live music on Friday: Blues legend ‘Dave Thomas’ and Brit Pop covers band ‘The Stereotypes’ who are known for getting everyone up and dancing! Live music on Saturday: The Butcher’s Dog, a great mix of mod, punk, northern soul and dirty rock’n’roll hits.

Bulb & Table Top Sale Sat 12th Oct, 10.30am-1.30pm, The Pennoyer Centre, Pulham St Mary Come along and buy top quality bulbs at discounted prices with planting advice. Also, grab a bargain at our Table Top Sale with bric-a-brac, toys, books, clothes, crafts and more. Licensed bar and café open as normal.

An evening of Rock N Roll & Country with Johnny Flinton Sat 12th Oct, 8.30pm, Roydon Village Hall, IP22 5RB £7 on the door Bar & Raffle. Contact Paul 07944 200255 to book ahead.

Pop Up Book Sale Sat 5th Oct, 10am-1pm, Shelfanger Village Hall Sale of over 700 high quality second-hand books at great prices. Refreshments available. Free parking and free admission. Recycle your unwanted books and convert them to cash too!

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 17

The Oaksmere Autumn Wedding Fair Sun 13th Oct, 11am-3pm, The Oaksmere, Brome, IP23 8AJ . Free Entry MJR Events are excited to be holding their third wedding fair at The Oaksmere, which is situated in its own extensive ground on the Norfolk/Suffolk border.

The Wedding Fair will be held in the grand marquee and will be the perfect opportunity for future brides, grooms and their friends and families to meet local specialists and suppliers who can help make their big day just perfect.

Johnny Cash Roadshow

Diss Fireworks

Sat 26th Oct, 7.30pm, The Corn Hall, Diss

Sat 2nd Nov, 5pm-9pm (fireworks 8pm onwards) Diss Cricket Club, Rectory Meadow, Diss

“This show is simply the biggest and best celebration of Johnny Cash in the world today”. Tickets available from the Corn Hall’s Box Office 01379 652241.

Rum & Reggae Night Fri 8th Nov, 7.30pm-11.30pm The Park Hotel, Diss We are bringing the summer to the winter with music from the Marley Experience along with a great range of rum and cocktails! Entry is £15 pp.

Dementia Friendly Group Time With Friends Mon 11th Nov, 10am-1pm, The Corn Hall Come and join us for an informal coffee and chat. An informal and relaxed group with peer support and activities.

Refreshments available and carer friendly. This group takes place on 2nd Monday of the month. For more info, contact Jessica Vincent 01379 652241 or email Jessica.vincent@thecornhall. co.uk

It’s that time of year again! Come along to Billy Ellwood’s popular annual FREE fireworks display on Rectory Meadow.

Refreshment stalls and bar open.

Never Forget Relive the 90s & 00s!

Fri 22nd Nov, 7.30pm-1am, The Corn Hall Norwich’s Biggest Throwback Party is coming to Diss! Come and celebrate 2 decades of non-stop party bangers with all your favourites from the likes of S Club 7, Spice Girls, Take That, Backstreet Boys and many more! Strictly 18+.

Tickets available at www.nfdiss22nov. eventbrite.co.uk or via The Corn Hall Box Office 01379 652241 / www.thecornhall. co.uk £8 early bird, £10 first release, £12 second release and more on the door.

• Relax & unwind any stresses away with a Swedish or Aromatherapy Massage.

• Elemis Exfoliation and Dermalogica Body Wraps are now available for silky soft skin.

Z ^^/E', D h d z ^ > K E

• Or enjoy a popular treatment a facial, a luxury pedicure or gel polish manicure.

We are Diss & surrounding area private commercial beauty, gel nails & spa massage salon.

To book or for more information call 01379 687542 bressinghambeautysalon.co.uk

Joanne Hearle ITEC Qualified & Insured.

(Full member of the British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology)

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 19

Kick start ‘Back to School’ with some ME time!

Joanne Hearle

Unwind your stresses away with Massage Therapy at Bressingham Beauty Salon, Diss!

A wonderful array of massage therapy and spa body treatments are now available as a fully qualified and insured ITEC Level 3 Spa Beauty Massage Therapist!

Two gorgeous treatment rooms to choose from!

A Swedish Full Body Massage or back, neck and shoulder massage can help relieve muscle pain, tension, soothing any stresses, depression or anxiety feeling much happier also lighter.

An Aromatherapy Massage is the same as a Swedish Massage but using essential oils to help you destress or feel rejuvenated.

Alternatively, you can feel luxuriously cocooned in a body wrap for a quality amount with gorgeous products all cruelty free and vegan.

Taking some ‘me time’ is positive steps for your health and well-being also mind health. It’s taking good care of yourself and your body!

I look forward to hearing from you, helping you with your skin and body goals.

Making you feel brighter, lighter and ease any burdens on your mind.

Call now on 01379 687542 to book your perfect treatment!

Would love to hear from you bressinghambeauty@outlook.com Bressingham Beauty Salon is OPEN Mon – Fri, 9:00AM until 4:30PM by appointment with Joanne Hearle

20 Diss Matters . Autumn 2019

An update from Diss Waveney Rotary Club As part of Rotary’s Basic Education and Literacy initiative to help improve literacy skills in schools Diss Waveney Rotary Club will be presenting Year Five pupils in 10 local primary schools with Usborne Illustrated English Dictionaries.

The dictionaries are issued with the names of each Year Five pupil on and are for their personal use at home and at school. The Dictionaries4Life will be distributed by members of Diss Waveney Rotary club early in the new September term.

In September 2020 the number of pupils in the 10 primary schools involved rise significantly.

Predicted numbers indicate that 285+ Dictionaries4Life will be required and Diss Waveney Rotary Club will increase their fundraising efforts to purchase them.

The Dictionaries are always well received by both pupils and teachers in the schools we visit. This is an important ongoing Rotary initiative to help improve literacy standards, and as such Diss Waveney Rotary club members will continue to play their part in supporting it.

A Date For Your Diaries – Friday 13 December 2019 Diss Waveney Rotary Club are extremely proud to announce a concert performed by Norwich based ‘Fine City Chorus’, in the beautiful Bressingham Church, on Friday 13 December. This is a fundraising concert (proceeds of which will be distributed to local and other charities supported by Rotary).

The concert commences at 7.30pm, ticket price £10 which includes light refreshments and warm drinks. Tickets, can be booked by telephoning 01379 640211.

Fine City Chorus are an all-male choir that have been singing close harmony (Barbershop Style) since 1975.

Every year the Chorus compete against 40+ other Barbershop chorus’ at the UK championships and last year came the top of their division.

The concert performance will be an eclectic mix of songs led by their musical director Carol Logan.

Be well wrapped up, bring a blanket and cushion to enhance your comfort and enjoyment of the concert by a very experienced and entertaining group of singers.

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 21

Help people remain independent at home and live well in the community Voluntary Norfolk’s Health and Wellbeing Service is funded by the NHS to offer support and companionship to people living in social isolation or facing the challenge of a long term mental or physical health condition.

The service matches people suffering from physical or emotional health issues that cause them to be isolated from their community with volunteers willing to help them access interests, pursuits or support services.

One of our clients is John who suffers from MS and cannot get out of the house without help. Before his illness, John was used to being independent and looking after himself; he took for granted being able to ‘nip out’ to the shops or the garden centre. With his declining health, his mental health started to suffer.

John was referred to our service and matched with one of our health and wellbeing volunteers Peter who now visits him for an hour or so a week.

John and Peter visit the shops and regularly just go out for coffee. Peter also gives John emotional support to help him better manage his condition. When John isn’t feeling well, they simply watch a movie together. These trips and visits have made a huge difference to John, he feels more positive and motivated and says he feels part of the outside world again!

We are looking for more volunteers who want to make a difference to people like John, helping to improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing and remain independent at home.

If you would like to give your time and talents to make a positive difference to people’s lives, please contact EmmaLouise Hearn, Volunteer Coordinator on 0738 411 5245 or email Emma-Louise.

Hearn@voluntarynorfolk.org.uk

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Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 23

Diss Business Growth Hub Free business growth and networking events, exclusively for the businesses of Diss Neil Foley, founder of the Business Growth Club, will be holding 3 FREE business growth & networking events at: The Diss Youth and Community Centre, Shelfanger Rd, Diss, IP22 4EH on: • Mon 23rd Sept, 6.30pm - 8.30pm • Mon 21st Oct, 6.30pm - 8.30pm • Mon 18th Nov, 6.30pm - 8.30pm Neil has delivered over 220 workshops to business owners throughout Norfolk and Suffolk, sharing best practice and his ideas gained over a lifetime in business.

• Discover how the ‘Three Business Multipliers’ can make a massive difference to your business, and they don’t cost a penny either. Neil will share how these multipliers have worked so well for businesses looking to grow, but don’t want to spend a fortune doing so!

•

In addition, he will cover the ‘Eight Business Boosters’ that can clearly differentiate a business from its competitors, which means we can move the argument away from price and onto value with higher margins.

Not rocket science as relatively easy once you know how.

Each session can only accommodate a maximum of 30 people so pre-book a space if you want guaranteed entry.

Walk-ins will be accepted, dependant on numbers. Please contact Neil or Ola to confirm your place: Neil - 01603 443355 neil@businessgrowthclub.net Ola - 01953 681 200 ola@businessgrowthclub.net www.businessgrowthclub.net Facebook: @businessgrowthclub

These events are proudly supported by:

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 25

An update from your local Police Inspector It’s been a busy few months at Diss Police Station, and I wanted to update you with some of the progress we have made. Our teams have been working hard to keep our community safe throughout the Summer months – which have included focussing on anti-social behaviour in the Diss area.

Although crime levels are generally low, we feel it is important that you feel safe to live, work and visit the area. The Safer Neighbourhood Team have been working hard to tackle anti-social behaviour, by giving school presentations; visiting parents; increasing both high visibility and plain clothes patrols; as well as working with our Operational Partnership Team and Councils for diversionary scheme ideas. We have seen some great results with this, but continue to monitor.

We have also launched a new team to help focus on priority crime such as burglaries, theft of motor vehicles and drug dealing. The Neighbourhood Policing Team now work proactively on long term issues that can have the largest impacts.

Together with our Response Teams and Safer Neighbourhood Team – we are in a good position to move things forward.

We also feel it is important that we police what is important to you – so have meetings every six months to listen to what your concerns are. Unfortunately only one resident attended the last meeting, so we changed things and launched a Beat Manager Summer Tour to visit you.

The team have spent the Summer visiting every parish in the area – to get to know you and hear what you expect of the police, as well as to explain what we are currently working on. We have had some great engagement so thank you for your support.

If you missed the team and want to get in touch please email SNTDiss@norfolk. pnn.police.uk, or for anything more urgent please call 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively follow @SouthNorfPolice on Twitter to keep up to date with what your policing team are working on.

Thanks for taking the time to support us.

A/Inspector Laura Symonds

26 Diss Matters . Autumn 2019

Diss Business Forum launches defibrillator appeal The Diss Business Forum is appealing to businesses within its membership to raise funds for an additional defibrillator in Diss.

As part of their continued support for nominated charity Diss First Responders, DBF members want to buy and install a new machine that will be available for public use 24 hours a day, as well as raise awareness of how crucial defibrillators are in the event of a cardiac arrest.

The location of the proposed defibrillator is yet to be determined but the aim would be to reduce the distance in the town between existing public machines currently available.

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 27

Rachel Hillier from Diss First Responders said: “With our area being over 25 miles from any hospital and our ambulance service having to cover major distances on mostly single carriageway roads, having defibrillators easily accessible to the public is of vital importance in a medical emergency where the first few minutes are of vital importance in maintaining life.”

She added: “I can't thank Diss Business Forum enough for their tremendous support to Diss First Responders over the years and their plan to install another Public Access Defibrillator will be of huge benefit to our community.”

The Diss Business Forum hopes to have completed their fundraising effort by next February and have already planned some HeartStart events so local businesses can find out more about how easy it is to assist someone in a medical emergency.

The defibrillators offer automated assistance with the support of an ambulance service 999 operator who can guide the user through the necessary procedure until an ambulance arrives on the scene.

DBF Chair Leigh Thurston said: “We have supported Diss First Responders invaluable work in our community

for a number of years now and are

delighted that our members have

selected them as our nominated charity. This new defibrillator could literally be the difference between life

and death. We want our members

to be a real part of our fundraising efforts and help us to raise the money at dedicated fundraising events.”

More information about the appeal

and specific fundraising events will be

available at the Diss Business Forum website www.dbf.org.uk as well as an up-to-date total of the money raised.

With around 90 members, the Diss Business

Forum

helps facilitate

business-to-business relationships in

and around the area. They organise regular

business

breakfasts

and

networking events to allow the growth of business relationships between

members. Non-members are always welcome to attend events.

Membership of the Diss Business Forum co sts just £30 a year. Pleas e visit the website to find out m ore about the full range of incentives on offer, to join as a member or book in for a fo rthcoming event.

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 29

Support in Diss for people with dementia and their carers There is such a lot of support available every week to people with dementia and their carers.

There are four Cafes, Dove Song, Dove Cafe Church, a Carers Group and regular dementiafriendly film shows.

They are friendly and supportive, social and activity-rich occasions. Led by trained and dedicated teams of volunteers, we try to cater for people’s interests and life-experiences as they go through an often bewildering and worrying times of their lives. Carers join in many of the activities and see their loved ones enjoying themselves, smiling and singing, chatting and relaxing.

Most of the cafes have a similar routine: the first hour, cakes and beverages are served as people play board games, dominoes and puzzles and where lots of conversations and sharing takes place.

Then come the shared activities, a vast range of things: Clay pot making, seasonal arts and crafts, drumming, massage, Thai Chi, outings, seated exercises, yoga, sports, bowls, snooker, animal petting, singing, to name but a few. We then have lunch with more chatting and laughter.

Dove Song is a new past-time, run by a qualified Music Therapist and for people living with Parkinsons or Dementia, those who are recovering from strokes, or where singing benefits their wellbeing. You don't need to be able to sing in tune!

We sing all types of well-known songs and have relaxed fun. Here we do ask for donations.

Dove Cafe Church is also a new venture, providing some spiritual support. We sing traditional hymns and have a Biblical theme and prayers. A short informal service to suit needs, followed by refreshments.

Diss Carers Group is a group for Carers and provides space for sharing, having speakers to provide information, and a break from the routine of caring.

The Denny Centre is soon to be functioning again, providing extra care and support. We need to watch this space!

Below is a list of the times, dates, places and contact numbers of the various groups :

In September we are introducing a time when carers can leave their cared-for and have a speaker on subjects of their choice.

These Cafes are all free of charge. Some have a raffle which members seem to enjoy very much.

1st Monday of the month, 1.30pm Dove Cafe Church open to all.

Diss United Reformed Church,

Mere St. (opp. Aldi) Parking at rear of church.

Tel: Gabrielle 01379 650770

1st Wednesday of the month, 10am-1pm

3rd Thursday of the month, 10am-12pm

Diss United Reformed Church as above

Victoria Rd. Diss, Telephone: 01379 671333

The Dove Dementia Cafe

De Lucy House Dementia Cafe,

2nd Monday of the month, 10am-1pm Dementia

2pm, Diss Carers Group

Jessica 01379 652241

Tel: Sue 01379 642021

Cafe, Diss Cornhall, St. Nicholas Street, Diss, Tel:

St. Mary’s Church Hall

3rd Monday of the month, 1.30pm-3pm

4th Tuesday of the month, 10am-12pm

to all. Diss United Reformed Church as above

Off Mount Street, Telephone 01379 643496

Dove Song - a therapeutic singing group open

Pabulum Cafe, Weavers Court

30 Diss Matters . Autumn 2019

Thank you Hello Kimberley,

ok I saw your post on Facebo the other day about our events – so thank you for being so proactive in marketing them!

Hello, Thank you so much for your help and inform ation I requested to open a B&B in your area. Much ap preciated.

Hub Daisy - Business Growth

Hello all,

us at Diss to you all for having Enormous thank you wonderful weeks. We’ve had a Market these past 4 at some be able to come back time and we’d love to events in mind for any future point. Please bear us ’d love to wd and something we as it was a great cro e out and our last day so if you’r repeat. Tomorrow is say hi! about in Diss, please Best wishes, Brownie & The Bean Charlotte and Luke – Autumn R

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AUTUMN FALL LEAVES

BONFIRE HALLOWEEN ORANGE

BROWN HARVEST PUMPKIN

Hi, The Public Consultati on went very well yeste rday at the Diss Youth & Community Centre, we had a good attendance.

Thanks for all your help in the lead up to this.

Dear Melissa, Thank you very much for this kin d reply, the maps and brilliant information to help us find a cemetery plot on our visit to Diss. We look forwa rd to finding it when we next come to Diss!

Wordsearch Autumn Fall Leaves Red Bonfire Halloween Orange Scarecrow Brown Harvest Pumpkin Weather

Diss Matters . Autumn 2019 31

Created in 2006 as a forward-thinking, results driven, proudly independent estate agent, with a flair for customer service and a real passion for embracing the communities in which we operate; Musker McIntyre Estate Agents & Financial Services is now one of the leading property firms in East Anglia, with offices covering Norfolk and Suffolk.

Above : The office on Mere Street, Diss

Our Diss office on Mere Street has been running very successfully for almost a decade now with a strong team (Justin, Debbie, Adam dealing with Residential Sales, Helen and Sharon dealing with Lettings & Management).

Each of our carefully-picked team is chosen for their positive, approachable and experienced outlook to all aspects of the property market. Many of our staff are qualified members of the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) and every member of the Musker McIntyre ‘family’ works closely together to ensure a seamless delivery of the customer service our clients have become accustomed to. In fact, our staff between them benefit from more than 200 years’ combined experience across a wide section of the market, both locally, regionally and nationally – meaning your largest asset is in very safe hands.

As well as selling a wide range of properties across the IP and NR postcode areas, managing hundreds of rental properties and offering a first-rate financial services solution; we also take pride in supporting our local communities. For more than a decade, Musker McIntyre has been honoured to support a variety of local charities and organisations through ‘The Musker McIntyre Community Fund’ (via The Norfolk Foundation www.norfolkfoundation.com) which supports a variety of good causes. They know how important it is to ‘Think Local’ and take pride in being part of their local community which is close to their heart.

Above : Justin North, Helen Murphy, Sharon Turner, Debbie Phillips, Adam Halls - The Diss Sales, Lettings & Management Team - drop in and have a chat with them today.

From ongoing financial support and corporate sponsorship, to using our eye catching ‘For Sale’ boards to advertise local community and charity events; we are eager to prove our credentials and commitment to each of the areas that we cover.

Now in our second decade, our resolve to offering a first-class service is stronger than ever; with our marketing strategy offering an effective and proven method of securing your ideal buyer or tenant, both online and on your high street. Musker Mcintyre was created in late 2006 by husband and wife team, Joanna McIntyre and Simon McIntyre with over 40 years’ experience between them in all aspects of the property market, gained through careers within leading national estate agencies both locally and nationally.

Sales Tel No: 01379 644822 Lettings Tel No: 01379 882570 Email: diss@muskermcintyre.co.uk Financial Services Tel No: 01603 627777