towncouncil@diss.gov.uk

Diss Town Mayor, Councillor Eric Taylor, celebrated his civic ceremony at St Mary’s church in Diss on Sunday 12th September.

Members of the public joined invited guests to witness the event.

“I was delighted to see so many representatives from local organisations,” said Councillor Taylor. “It was particularly nice to see mayors and mayoresses from six neighbourhood towns and chairpersons from three county and district councils.”

During the ceremony, Councillor Taylor shared his delight at being able to see so many people in person.

“After many months of Zoom meetings, it’s lovely to be with so many of you in person today,” he said. “I am proud and honoured to stand here as the elected mayor of our historic, vibrant and diverse market town of Diss. My fellow members bestowed great privilege and responsibility upon me and I take the trust they’ve shown me very seriously.”

You say "mayor", I say "mere"

The ceremony also attracted a surprise guest on the hunt for some local treasure.

“Sunday was a memorable and moving, but also very surreal experience,” said Councillor Taylor. “Just before the ceremony started, I was approached in the grounds of the church by TV weather presenter and BBC Radio Norfolk ‘Treasure Quest’ host, Julie Reinger. It turns out I was the treasure she’d been searching south west Norfolk for all day! Apparently, her clue was 'Find the one famous for chains who’s come here early.' Sadly, she found me seconds too late to succeed in her challenge. (There was some debate about whether it was the mere or the mayor they were searching for, so this might have had something to do with it!). But, even so, it was a privilege to meet Julie and the team and a great way to start off a very special day.”

All in a good cause

After the ceremony, a collection for the mayor’s chosen charity, MIND, was held.

“My chosen charity has been heavily influenced by events of the last 18 months when the pandemic took hold,” said Councillor Taylor. “I know from my own experience how anxiety and lack of knowledge can affect the mental health and wellbeing of so many of us. In my circle of friends and family, I have seen carers who have nursed end-of-life Covid sufferers - stressed out and distraught that they could do so little to ease their suffering. MIND has been a lifeline for many people like this, offering practical help and support as well as raising awareness and understanding. It celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, and I didn’t have to think too long about which charity to support. I’m thrilled to have raised £116 for them today.”

Find out more about Mayor Eric Taylor on the Diss Town Council website.