towncouncil@diss.gov.uk

Diss Town Clerk Sarah Villafuerte-Richards is undertaking a month-long fundraising challenge throughout October in support of Cancer Research UK and in memory of former Diss Town Councillors Eric Taylor and John Robertson.

Over the next 31 days, Sarah will complete a plank every day whilst raising funds for Cancer Research UK and highlighting some of the people, places, projects and volunteers that help make Diss such a special community.

The challenge begins today at South Norfolk Council's leisure centre in Long Stratton and will conclude on 31^st October at the site of the new leisure centre serving Diss and the surrounding area. Works are expected to recommence shortly on the project, making it a fitting way to begin and end the month's challenge.

Throughout October, the campaign will showcase community facilities, environmental initiatives, civic events, local partnerships, heritage assets and volunteer-led projects across the town. Featured locations will include Diss Mere, the Youth & Community Centre, the Sports Ground and Skatepark, Diss Museum, the Corn Hall, the Market Place, Diss Cemetery and the town's floral displays, alongside a range of community projects and volunteer initiatives.

A special "Unsung Heroes of Diss" theme will run throughout the campaign, recognising the volunteers, community groups, staff and organisations whose work helps make Diss a welcoming, vibrant and attractive place to live.

Sarah Villafuerte-Richards said:

"This challenge is first and foremost about supporting Cancer Research UK and remembering Eric Taylor and John Robertson, two former Town Councillors who gave so much of their time to serving our community.

Throughout October I hope to shine a spotlight not only on the projects and facilities that residents value, but also on the many volunteers, staff and community groups whose efforts often take place behind the scenes. Diss is fortunate to have so many people who care deeply about the town and give their time to make a positive difference."

Mayor of Diss Town Council, Councillor Declan Craggs, said:

"Eric Taylor and John Robertson both made a valued contribution to the work of Diss Town Council and to the wider community. This challenge is a wonderful way to remember them whilst supporting an important cause. We wish Sarah every success with her fundraising efforts and look forward to following her progress throughout October."

The challenge begins at a leisure centre serving the local community and will finish at the site of Diss's future leisure centre, reflecting the campaign theme of looking ahead whilst celebrating the people and places that make Diss special.

Residents can follow the challenge throughout October via Diss Town Council's social media channels and support Cancer Research UK by donating via:

fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org

I'm raising funds for Cancer Research UK in memory of two of my dear Diss Town councillors who sadly passed away earlier this year. I'd appreciate any support in enabling me to reach my target of £150. In the last 50 years, Cancer Research UK’s work has helped double cancer survival in the UK. But we need to go further, faster. Donate today to help bring about a world where everybody lives longer, better lives, free from the fear of cancer.