Diss' Remembrance Parade & Service
Diss Town Council, together with the Royal British Legion, warmly invites residents to take part in this year’s Remembrance Sunday commemorations. On Sunday, 9th November, the community will gather for the annual parade, wreath-laying, and church service - a time to reflect and pay tribute to the men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation.
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The afternoon’s events will begin at 2:10pm with the Remembrance Parade following the usual route along Mere Street, with a road closure in place. Most of the 35 organisations expected to take part will peel off at the Market Place and take up their positions whilst the youth organisations, including the army & air cadets, continue up Market Hill, back down St Nicholas Street & to the Market Place. Our thanks to all those who take part, including the Salvation Army Band, Armed Forces personnel, emergency services, local clubs, and standard and flag bearers.
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The Drumhead Service will take place at approximately 2.30pm. Among those invited to lay wreaths at the drumhead altar are the King’s representative, Deputy Lieutenant for Norfolk Philippa Taylor, and Adrian Ramsay MP. The Drumhead tradition dates back to the 18th century, when soldiers fashioned an altar from their regimental drums to create a moment of reflection on the battlefield. Today, it remains a poignant symbol of remembrance.
This new format was trialled last year to allow more space for public viewing and greater involvement from younger participants, and was received very positively, thank you.
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Following the service, the community is welcome to join a special remembrance service at St Mary’s Church at 3pm. During this time, the wreaths will be transferred to the war memorial, where a short dedication will bring the afternoon to a close.
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This event is organised by a committee led by Diss Town Council, with representatives from the Diss & District Royal British Legion, Salvation Army, local churches, RAFA, local cadet forces, Scouts, Diss High School & Park Radio.
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Diss Town Clerk, Sarah Villafuerte-Richards, encouraged attendance, saying: “Please join us as we unite in remembrance of the courage, service, and sacrifice of our Armed Forces - past and present. If you’re a new service provider or group in town and would like to lay a wreath for the first time, please get in touch.
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For public safety, temporary road closures will be in place from 2pm to 3:30pm on Sunday 9th November. Roads affected will include Mere Street, Market Place, St Nicholas Street, Mount Street (between Saracens Head and Market Place), and Market Hill.
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View all photos from this event.
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