towncouncil@diss.gov.uk

Hundreds of residents gathered in Diss Park on Friday 15 August 2025 for a poignant evening of remembrance, reflection, and unity as the town marked the 80th anniversary of VJ Day.

The ceremony, compered by Salvation Army Bandmaster Iain Sturgeon, opened with a parade of the Air Cadets into the park to the accompaniment of the Salvation Army Band. Mr Sturgeon later delivered the Last Post, a moving moment that stilled the crowd, alongside a series of readings.

Diss Town Mayor, Cllr Declan Craggs, reflected on both the soldier’s and civilian’s experience of VJ Day. Further readings were shared by County Councillor Keith Kiddie and Gabrielle Pagan, while Basil Abbott, Manager of Diss Museum, gave a stirring rendition of Rudyard Kipling’s Road to Mandalay. Special performances from the Gislingham Variety Band, Birgitta Kenyon and Ella-Rose O’Grady added solemnity to the occasion.

The Deputy Lieutenant for Norfolk, attending as guest of honour on behalf of His Majesty the King, joined representatives from the Royal British Legion, Royal Air Force Association and Salvation Army in supporting the commemoration.

At the heart of the evening, Honoured Citizen Richard Pither lit the town’s beacon, joining communities across the UK in a nationwide act of remembrance. The beacon shone brightly as the crowd united in singing God Save the King. The ceremony also saw the unveiling of newly inscribed plaques on the beacon seating, commemorating both VE Day 80 and VJ Day 80.

Prior to the ceremony, a new USAAF memorial was unveiled in the Royal Anglian Garden on Mere Street, accompanied by the planting of two roses to symbolise remembrance and renewal.

Speaking after the ceremony, Diss’ Town Clerk, Sarah Villafuerte-Richards said:
“Tonight, Diss came together to honour the memory of those who endured and those who gave their lives. Thank you to all the local organisations who supported this event and to the community who united once again to commemorate this special occasion.”