News items from Diss Express for the 1930`s
Diss Express 4th April 1930
LEGION DANCE.
A large number attended a social and dance organised by the Diss Women’s Section British Legion and held at the Service Club on Saturday night, the proceeds being in aid of the outing fund.
Mr. R. Leeder officiated as M.C. and dance music was supplied by the 'Victorians” Dance Band consisting of Mrs. Barker, Mr. I Barker, Mr. W. Hart, Mr. H. Easton and Mr. Wilson.
Songs were contributed by Mr. H. Downing and Miss G. Barker and a recitation Mrs. H. Long.
Prizes were presented by Mrs. R. Nunn to Mrs. Jackson and Mrs. Mileham for the spot one step, and Master Harold Nunn and Master Norman Leeder for the mat walk.
The refreshments were served by the social committee and Mr. A. Hayward acted as door steward.
14th November 1930
THE DISS EXPRESS AND NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK JOURNAL.
LEST WE FORGET.
In every Town, Village, Hamlet and Branch Sunday and Armistice Day have been celebrated in fitting fashion either by special services in Church, Chapel, school or at the village memorials and it is only fitting that it should be so.
Given below accounts of the various services and those which have arrived too late placed on this page will be found under the usual village headings. Diss Parish Church was crowded Sunday morning, when Remembrance Day was observed.
There were present the Company 6th Battalion Norfolk Regiment under Captain H. S. Ling (company officer) and Lieut L. H. Tibbenham (O.C. Diss Detachment), members of the Diss branch British Legion.
Service Club and ex-service men headed by Captain L. J. Mann (president). Mr. 11. G. Murray (chairman) and Mr.. C. Hubbard (hon. secretary), members of the Women’s Section British Legion, Diss Boy Scouts and Cubs, under Scout Masters I. Parkin and Miss Catchpole, Diss Church School Cubs, under Cub master Miss Dixon.
Diss Girl Guides under Miss Martin and Brownies under Mrs. Balding.
The Legionnaires and ex-service men were marshalled outside the Service Club by ex-Sergeant-Major F. F. Debenham.
The men’s standard was carried by Mr. F. D. Bryant, with Mr. A. L. Bowell (vice-chairman) and Mr. G. R. Rayner as escorts, and the Women’s Section standard was carried by Mrs. Mattholie, and Mrs. Pretty and Mrs. Markwell acted as escorts.
The Scouts Union Jack was carried by Patrol-leader Horace Mortimer, Scouts W Foster and L. Sussames acting as escort.
The service opened with the hymn God our help in ages past.” ; during the singing of which, the Rector, the Rev. L. Holt Wilson, received the colours and placed them in the chancel.
The choir was fully choral. Mr. Day. Mus. Bat . A.R.C .0.. presiding at the organ.
The first lesson was read by the Rev. S. C lose (Baptist minister), and the second by Capt. K. J. Mann, after which prayers were offered for the Empire, the unemployed the League of Nations and those who suffered by the war. During the course of his address, the Rector. who took as his text ” Seek peace and pursue it” (Ps. XXXIV, v 14), said that that day reminded them of the tragic years of the Great War.
Their hearts went out to those women who were left behind when their men never came back, and to the children to whom their father was only a name.
It was not enough to remember these heroes, who were told that they were fighting to end war, that their children might live in peace and security.
It was said that it was war to end war, yet twelve years later we had not yet muddled through and were in danger of muddling back into the condition we were in before the war.
To-day men were talking calmly of another war and discussing when and where it would break out.
From want of faith, courage and vision, were failing our dead.
As we prayed for them we hoped they would pray for and make us less unworthy of them.
Trade was languishing and unemployment had become recognised as permanent fact.
Field Marshal Sir William Robertson had said that war was wholly detestable thing as disastrous for the victors as the vanquished.
There was nothing he gained such vile, wicked madness and the time would come when swords would he beaten into ploughshares, but that time might come too late what could they to prevent it?
They must get back to tied and make his will their will for the peace the world, in co-operation with our Lord, the Prince of Peace.
They must substitute love and sympathy for fear and suspicion, and duty, discipline and self sacrifice for self interest and pleasure hunting.
They should learn self-control and put service before self, in order to seek peace and pursue it.
During the singing the hymn Jerusalem the Golden collection was taken for Karl Haig's Fund.
The Last Post and Reveille was sounded by Bandsman Watkinson, after which the first verse of the National Anthem was sung.
The Rector and congregation then went to the War Memorial, upon which wreaths of Flanders poppies were placed, by Captain K. J. Mann, for the British Legion, Mrs. Markwell for the Women's Section British Legion, Lieut. Tibbenham for the Territorials, and Scoutmaster Parkin, for the Rovers, Scouts and Cubs.
After prayers by the Rector, the parade re-formed and, headed by the Diss British Legion Band, marched through Mere Street and Park Road, to Denmark- Street, where they were dismissed.
SCOLE
The Armistice celebrations at Scole commenced with a ceremony at the War Memorial where about forty ex-service men gathered.
A short service was held and a wreath placed on the Memorial from the British Legion Branch by Mr. A. Bloomfield Thorpe Parva.
The parade then formed up and headed by Mr. G. Oakes, bearing the local Legion Standard, marched to Church under the command of Mr. A. C. Matthew who was accompanied by Messrs. W. Riches and V. H. Hastlett.
Captain Wade Palmer, president the branch left for Scotland the day before and was unable to be present.
The service in Church was conducted by the Rev. F. F. Tomlin and special hymns were sung by the congregation led by the choir.
The Rev. F. F. Tomlin took his text from Jeremiah and spoke the ex-service men’s Welfare Society discussed the legacy which war had left to those who now lived in comfort, a comfort which those brave men bought at such tremendous cost.
Armistice Day. he said, was not merely a memory of the dead but it was to carry on the work for which they fought and died.
Peace could only come through righteousness and truth; by people living righteously and truthfully.
The collection taken in Church in aid of the ex-servicemen’s Welfare Society amounted to £3/12/4.
Diss Express 18th April 1930
DEDICATION OF SCOLE BANNER.
Sunday was great day, and will in all probability be the greatest, in the annuals of the Scole Branch of the British Legion.
It was then, on the morning of Palm Sunday, that their banner was dedicated.
Until quite recently the members of the British Legion at Scole were formed as a sub-branch to the Diss and District Branch, but on attaining almost a 100 per cent, membership it was decided that a Branch should formed in Scole.
To commemorate this new departure a very successful dinner was held at the Headquarters of the Branch, the King’s Head Hotel.
It was at this dinner that the crowning point of the Branch’s progress was reached, when Captain E. J. Mann, President of the Diss Branch, and great supporter of the Legion, offered to present the newly formed Branch with a Banner.
Great deal of the success of the Branch has been due to the untiring efforts of the officials and the smooth working between them and the members.
A word of praise was also due to the hard-working and enthusiastic Chairman of the Branch, Mr. H. W, Riches, who has thrown himself wholeheartedly into the cause.
The President the Branch is Capt. E. Wade-Palmer and the vice-chairman, Mr. W. H. Haslctt, with Mr. Claude Bowles as the secretary.
The culminating stage came on Sunday, there was a good attendance of Legion members, both from the Scole Branch and the neighbouring branches.
A procession was formed in the field opposite the Rectory when there were about on parade. was headed by the Diss British Legion Band, under acting conductor Mr Martin, and was followed by the Diss Detachment of Norfolk Regiment (T), under Lt. L. H. Tibbenham, and Legion members from Gislingham, Wortwell and Aldburgh, Stonham, Mallis, Eye, Dickleburgh, and Hoxne.
The Diss Branch (mother Branch Scole), was represented Capt. E. J, Mann (President), Mr. H. G. Murray (Chairman), Mr. A. E. Bowell (chairmanship) Mr. J. R. Rayner and others.
The banners that were present were from the East Anglia Area, Diss and District, andother Branches, while the Union Jack from the Headquarters at Ipswich was also carried.
The parade was under Capt. Mann, and was marshalled ex-R. S. M. Dcbenham. Capt. F. W. Roderick, D.S.O, organising Secretary for East Anglia was also present.
The new banner was carried furled.
The parade marched to the War Memorial where Capt. Mann placed a wreath, and then on to the Church, which was soon filled to overflowing. The Service.
The service, which was conducted by the Rector, the Rev. F. E. Tomlin commenced with the hymn God our Help in ages past.” The lesson was read by Capt. Mann from St. Matthew 21.
At the conclusion of the singing of the next hymn “Onward Christian Soldiers,” the banner was taken unfurled to the chancel steps by Mr. Oakes, who was supported by Mr. Riches and Mr. Haslett.
It was there met the Rector, who after formerly dedicating it, placed it the altar, where it rested for the remainder of the service.
The next hymn was “Fight the good fight.” “A Wonderful Fellowship.”
The Rev. F. E. Tomlin in his address, said those who had attention to the lesson must have thought what a wonderful sight it was in Jerusalem the time of Jesus Christ’s triumphal entry in the humble state of sitting on an ass.
That was a great pageant and wonderful loyalty had been shown Him.
But on Good Friday there was a change and those who had acclaimed Him crucified Him.
The enthusiasm that had been had died away.
He had thought of the enthusiasm of the members of the Legion attending that service.
He wanted them think of that service dedication not merely and purely as a pageant, although a pageant was a great and wonderful help to them if they used it in the true way.
They wanted to remember that that banner represented for them, everyone of them members of the British Legion, a life which they were to live.
It represented fellowship and union.
A wonderful fellowship of which they talked so much, but which was put so little into practice, because they did not realise truly what fellowship was fellowship.
The true state of being a fellow was a partner in this cause, one who shared in cause and who had joint interest with others in a cause.
All the members of the British Legion were joined together in a cause, the fellowship of the cause the British Legion.
He would only briefly remind them that it stood for the helping of those who had fought in the war and had fallen out by the way of life, helping the widows and orphans and others who served.
Diss Express 19th September 1930
LEGION banner dedicated.
Diss. the Rev. L. Holt dedicated the banner of the Diss Section British Legion, at the Church, on Sunday. The procession. the Legion Club, which included from the men's section, was the Diss British Legion Band, Band sergeant Oscar Martin, and Mr. F. E. Debenham.
The Men’s Standard was carried by the Legion Standard Bearer, escorted by Messrs. A. Cobb, H. Foster.
Mrs. K. Mattholie carried the new banner, her escorts being Mrs Nunn and Mrs. Pretty. The Dickleburgh Women's Section was represented by Miss Redgrave (member of the Women s Section East Anglia Area Conference) and Mesdames Etheridge, Fairaeatber and Bartrum.
Mrs C. Day at the organ and collection was taken for the Legion for consumptive children at Teston Ball.
In his address the Rector said "It gives much pleasure to meet fellow members of the British Legion in this House God”.
We have recalled to mind Just now the different objects of the Legion, and they are all summed up in the words, Peace and Goodwill, that war shall be no more, wonder then, that the women of the nation wished to join the Legion, with this object of the Legion, that war stall more.
None of us men can understand what women —mothers, wives, sisters, sweethearts —had to suffer, and have to suffer, during war-time, as no man, and I speak from my own experience, can appreciate the full worth of a good woman till forced to leave her company for war or some other occasion.
Peace and can only be gained by unselfishness.
It is selfishness in one form or another that causes wars and upsets the harmony of nations and of homes as well, and without unselfishness and goodwill, branch of the Legion cannot flourish.
Peace and goodwill is God’s purpose for the world ; the angels sang at the birth of the Saviour —' Glory to God in the Highest and on earth peace and goodwill the Prince of Peace. So if you believe in God, if you believe that His purpose for the world is the commonwealth of the nations —and by commonwealth of the nations mean the welfare of the nations;If you believe that His will, will be our peace then you will do your utmost to carry out His will, you will never cease pray and work for peace and goodwill amongst men, wherever you may be.
Pray. If your prayers about any object are to be effective, we must take pains learn all we can about that object.
And here the newspapers come to our assistance.
You may be surprised to hear this, but they come to our assistance, they record the news of the world, Gods world, for which He has a purpose, we read them day by day, we can find plenty of objects for which to pray that God’s will may be done.
His kingdom come.
Have you read Mr. Hendersons and General Hertzog’s speeches about disarmament at the meeting of the League of Nations If not. do it at once.
It seems as if God has a special purpose for the English-speaking nations and the British Empire and America, and that is we are out for peace, the peace of the world. let continue to work and pray for it, for upon success of the work of the League Nations depends the future of civilisation as we know it.”
At the conclusion of the service, the procession re-formed and marched to the Service Club, where they were dismissed.
Diss Express 6th November 1931
THE DISS BRITISH LEGION.
A Successful Year. Much satisfaction was expressed at the successful results of the past year at the seventh annual general meeting of the Diss and District Branch of the British Legion, which was held at the Assembly Room, 10, Denmark Street, on Monday evening, when Mr, E. J. Mann (President) presided and. was supported by Messrs. H. G. Murray (chairman). A. E. Bowell (vice-chairman), \V. C. Hubbard (hon. secretary) and F. T. Lacey (hon. treasurer).
Secretary’s Report. In the course of his report, the hon. secretary stated that the membership of the branch on September 30th, 1930, was 151. He regretted that during the year, one member had died, six had left the district and 16 had lapsed. From October, 1930 to September 1931, 39 new members had been elected that there was a membership of 167 at the end of September. 1931. Since that date new members had been elected. This showed a steady increase which he hoped would continue during the present year.
The hon, secretary pointed out that through the generosity of their members, their committee entertained about children at the New Year treat, and it was to be hoped that a similar treat would lie given this year.
On the Benevolent side, their Committee had been active during the year, having met on 48 occasions.
Twelve cases of distress had been relieved to the extent of £l0/12/6.
Grants were made from the United Services Fund for 24 cases to the amount of £37/15/-.
Two cases were assisted from the local British Legion Emergency Fund to the extent of £l/15/-, leaving a balance in hand of £5.
Mr. H. G. Murray, local representative on the War Pensions Committee reported that for the past 12 months, continued the hon. secretary, 22 cases of relief had been dealt with, 15 having been successful, 5 being held in abeyance and two unsuccessful.
Visits made to the war orphans during the year were 32 and the care taken of them, was found to lie very satisfactory.
The sale of poppies realised £45/3/8 and church collections £l0/0/1, making a total of £55/3/9.
Scole, which was included last year, brought in £25/9/8, making total sum of £7O/13/5 which was £2/4/11 less than the previous year.
In moving the adoption of the report. Mr. H. G. Murray remarked on its very satisfactory nature. Mr. J. Flatman seconded and the report was adopted.
The President said it was most gratifying to find their membership going up even if it was only going up slightly.
The Diss branch could lie congratulated on that account.
From the Diss Express 13th November 1931 (various articles).
HARLESTON ARMISTICE DAY SERVICE.
The special service at the Town War Memorial on Wednesday morning attracted a large gathering.
The usual service was abandoned this year and in its place the special B.B. C. broadcast service was relayed.
This was amplified by loud speakers arranged by Messrs. Knights, Harleston, and proved very successful.
The Rector (Dr. Inskip), the Rev. George Sydenham (Congregationalist), members of the Parish Council and representatives of various local institutions were among the large crowd present.
Others who attended included companies of the Girl Guides and Brownies, teachers and scholars from the schools and members of the local Territorial detachment, one of whom placed a wreath at the foot of the Memorial, where many other tokens had been placed relatives of those who had fallen.
STRADBROKE UNITED SERVICES
A united service was held at the Parish Church on Wednesday evening, when members of the local branch of the British Legion under Mr. E. Lines and the local Boy Scouts and Cubs under A.S.M. Foulsham attended.
The service was jointly taken by the Rev. K. E. Shaw and Pastor J. H. Oliver (Baptist Church).
An anthem, `What are There` (Stainer) was sung by the choir and Pastor Oliver gave the address.
The collections were for Earl Haig’s Fund. A wreath from the Legion branch was laid on the Memorial by Mrs. Rogers, in the morning.
BANHAM ARMISTICE SERVICES
A service was held on green round the Memorial Cross on Sunday morning where members of the British Legion, Scouts and Guides were present.
Mr F Macro gave an address on the green and later Canon R W. Longley, rector and rural dear conducted a service in the Church.
The collections were given to Earl Haig's Fund.
On Armistice Day there was short service in Church, and the Two Minutes Silence was observed.
Diss Express 13th November 1931
WINGFIELD ARMISTICE SERVICE.
The Armistice service was held at the Parish Church on Sunday evening, conducted by the Rev. S. W. H. Aldwell.
Members of the Fressingfield and District branch the British Legion attended under the charge Mr. L. B. Meek.
Appropriate hymns were sung.
Major H. P. Raven being the organ and at the conclusion the congregation sang the National Anthem.
DISS BRITISH LEGION.
The Annual Dinner.
The committee of the Diss branch of the British Legion are to be commended upon the success which attended their annual dinner, which was held in the Assembly Room, the Service Club, Tuesday.
This was the third annual dinner, but the first to held on the Club premises, and it was only made possible by the willing and loyal co-operation of the Committee of the Women’s Section.
When the idea of holding a dinner their premises was proposed it was thought there-would be difficulties, but when the Women’s committee was approached those difficulties disappeared, for these ladies undertook to carry out the catering, this department falling upon the shoulders of Mrs. Stannard, vice chairman, and right well was the task undertaken, for on Tuesday evening upwards of 80 members sat down to sumptuous repast of roast beef, roast pork, salt beef, pickles, jellies, trifle, Christmas pudding, biscuits and cheese and the manner in which they did justice was shown by the empty larder at the close.
Real good trenchermen are members of the Legion.
The tables had been tastefully laid out and were decorated with Poppies.
The President (Capt. E. J. Mann) presided and he was supported by Messrs. A. A. Bryant and G. R. Rayncr (vice-presidents), H. G. Murray (chairman), A. E. Bowell (vice-chairman), W. E. Hubbard (secretary) and F. T. Lacey (treasurer), Dr. V. P. Robinson attended later in the evening.
Following grace by the President, the ladies (Mrs. Stannard, Mrs. R. Nunn, Mrs. Frost, Mrs. Barker, Mrs. Batchelor, Mrs. Pretty, Mrs. Mattholie, Mrs. Ward, Mrs. Crane, Mrs. Markwell and Mrs. Holker) proceeded to dispense the good things.
Following the loyal toast, there was an interval of a few moments in order to allow of the tables being cleared and on returning the President asked the company to drink with him.
This was a signal for a spontaneous burst of “For he’s a jolly good fellow.” Capt. E. J. Mann then proposed “The Diss Branch of the British Legion” and said those present would remember that not many years ago Earl Haig amalgamated the ex servicemen’s organisations and formed the British Legion.
This work he did at great personal sacrifice and ruined his health, thus hastening his death.
Every man who had served his country should be member of the Legion.
He, Capt. Mann, felt that all ex-service men should get together in one of the best organisations left after the war.
He appealed to all who to stand by the Legion and see that it was able to carry out its work.
Those who were not members of the Legion should join in order to look after those who were injured and are still suffering as the result of the war.
The Legion stood for patriotism and for the men who were down, and the men who were members had done something of which they had every reason to be proud, for they had done their, bit for their country.
As President of that branch he was proud that their numbers were going on the right side, but they must not let it stop at that.
There was room for a greater membership and there were a number ex-servicemen in Diss who were not members.
If every member would only do his utmost to secure one new’ member they would soon 'have all the ex-servicemen on their books.
The committee and officers of the Branch did their work well but they could not do it all.
The position of president and the work he had done for the Legion had given him great pleasure but he would be even more pleased if they were much stronger.
He was certain it would go from strength to strength.
In the name of the Chairman, Mr. H. G. Murray coupled with the toast.
In response Mr. H. G. Murray said it was with pleasure that he had the privilege of responding to the toast.
The amount of work done by this branch has been enormous and the results most gratifying.
Thanks were due to the committees, past and present without which they would have been far from the position they were in to-day.
They had fine body of Legionaries, with a sporting instinct which they were proud of.
They also possessed one of the finest headquarters in East Anglia, for such a Branch as the Diss and District.
This in his opinion was an asset to all ex-servicemen and should be an encouragement for all outside their ‘'home from home" as it had been called, an inspiration to join their happy throng.
The toast “The Ladies Section of the British Legion” was proposed by Mr. G. R. Raynor and in doing so he said that the ladies section had done much useful work on the Benevolent side of the Legion.
There were cases which only ladies could investigate and their work in that direction had been very useful.
The whole of the arrangements in regard to Poppy Day were made by the ladies and they also did the selling.
The whole of this work was done very willingly.
When the committee of the Legion considered the question of holding that dinner, the ladies had offered to do the catering. He coupled the name Mrs. Stannard, vice chairman the Women’s Section with the toast.
Mrs. Stannard in a very graceful speech returned thanks and said that if their efforts had given satisfaction were amply repaid.
In proposing “The President” Mr. A. A. Bryant, said that by everyone in and around Diss, the name of Mann was held in the highest respect.
Their President stood for everything that was for good.
They all knew of the interest he took in the Legion and the committee were all the more anxious to carry on their work, knowing they had him at their back.
The toast was accorded musical honours.
Responding, Capt. Mann said it had given him the greatest pleasure to be present.
Diss Express.6th February 1931
BRITISH LEGION PARADE.
Members of the local branch of the British Legion paraded to St. Mary’s Church on Sunday morning to attend a memorial service to the late Field-Marshal Earl Haig.
There was not a large attendance of Legionnaires when the parade formed up outside the Service Club under the command of ex- C.S.M., F. E, Debenham.
Capt, E, J, Mann was unable to attend.
Headed by the Diss British Legion Band under the charge of Sergt. Oscar Martin the company made brave show as they marched to church wearing their medals and decorations and preceded by Mr E. A. Bryant, bearing the branch standard, who was supported by Messrs. G. R. Rayner and A Bowell.
They were accompanied by two members of the Ladies section of the local branch, Mrs. Mattholie and Mrs. Pretty.
At the service, the lessons were read Captain and Mr. C. C. Day was at the organ.
The Rev. L. Holt Wilson conducted the service and took the text for his address from the first chapter of Genesis
HOXNE LEGION DINNER.
The 3rd annual dinner of the Hoxne branch of the British Legion was held the Red Lion Inn on Tuesday by permission of Mr. and Mrs. C. Smith.
Major H. P, Raven (President) occupied the chair.
Toasts were proposed Messrs. A. Lawes, G. Howlett, H T. Goldsmith and were made by Messrs. W C. Saunders, R. L. Aspland and J. J. Carter.
Songs were given during the evening Messrs. A. E. Leggett, C. B. Kingsbury, A. Moore, W. A Banham, H T Goldsmith, R. Smith, R. L. Aspiand, W. Mills, R. Butcher and W. Goddard, Mr. F. L. Tyler being at the piano.
SCOLE BRITISH LEGION MEETING
The monthly meeting of the local branch of the British Legion was held at the King’s Head Hotel on Tuesday, when Capt. Palmer (President), presided over a company of about thirty members.
The arrangements for the annual dinner and the children's treat were discussed, and Mr. M. Gardiner. Billingford, was elected to the Relief Committee.
Songs were given by Capt. Evans and Messrs. Haslett and A. Constance, Mr. Bowles being at the piano.
Diss Express 31st July 1931
BRITISH LEGION RALLY AT STRADBROKE.
Under the auspices of the Stradbroke branch of the British Legion, a rally of legionaries was held at Stradbroke on Sunday.
Unfortunately the weather was anything but congenial but despite lowering skies and heavy showers of rain, the event was very successful.
About 500 Legionaries formed up at the White House, and headed the Kerrison School Band and strong contingent of the local branch, under Mr. E. Lines and accompanied by Mr. W. Burrows, carrying the branch standard, paraded church, under the command of Captain Daniels of Voxford.
The Stradbroke troop Boy Scouts brought up the tail of the procession and the Framlingham Town and Diss British Legion bands rendered music during the march.
At the entrance to Queen Street, the Earl of Stradbroke, who was accompanied by Lady Stradbroke, took the salute and as the parade passed the village War Memorial the various branch standards were dipped in salutation.
The British Legion branches represented, included Stradbroke, Laxheld, Monk Soham, Needham Market, Hoxne, Oxford, Stowmarket, Creeling St. Mary, Worlingworth, and Framlingham.
It had been proposed to hold an open-air service at Hepwood Lodge, but on account of the wet weather, it was decided to hold this at the Parish Church.
The service was conducted by the Rev. K. E. Shaw and opened with the hymn God our help in ages past” and following prayer, the lesson, Ephesians, chapter VI, verses 10-8, was read by Pastor, J. H. Oliver (Stradbroke Baptist Chapel).
Led by the choir the hymns ‘‘Thy kingdom come, O God” and ‘‘Onward Christian soldiers” were rendered by the congregation.
An address was given by the Right Rev. the Lord Bishop Edmundsbury and Ipswich who took his text “For whosoever Will save his life shall lose it; and whosoever will lose his life for My sake shall find it.”
The main theme of his remarks was compensation.
In the case of those who had fallen in the Great War, he said their compensation lay in the fact that they had given their all for the cause of liberty and for their fellow men. The object of the British Legion was to see that those who had suffered in the Great War should receive some compensation to make up for their loss.
The British Legion meant fellowship and he thought that if there was more fellowship in their world there would less likelihood of another war.
He referred to the business life and character of the community and said that the honest man might think he was losing by being honest, but he had the compensation of a clear conscience.
The hymn "Abide with me” was sung after which the Last Post and the Reveille were sounded and silence was observed in memory of fallen comrades.
The service concluded with the singing of National Anthem and the pronunciation of the Blessing.
The Diss British Legion Band accompanied for the hymns and Mr. H. Bullen was at the organ. The Parish Church, was crowded during the service and every available space was occupied by the congregation.
Following the service, the parade re-formed outside the Church and marched to the show ground where refreshments were served to those taking part.
The refreshments were supervised by a committee comprising Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Neave, Mr. and Mrs. H. S. Buck, and Mr. and Mrs E. Church.
The streets were gay with the decorations left from the Flower Show competition and the War Memorial was tastefully decorated with flags.
On behalf of the local branch of the British Legion, a wreath was placed on the Memorial by Mrs. Rogers.
THE DISS EXPRESS AND NORFOLK AND SUFFOLK JOURNAL
FRIDAY, MARCH 25. 1932
BRITISH LEGION.
Thirty members were present at the monthly meeting of the Pulhams British Legion held on Monday at the Memorial Hall, Mr B E T Cross (Chairman) Presided.
Among the questions arising from the area circular was the suggestions that an application made to Legion Headquarters with a view to obtaining a visits, possibly in October, of `Baby` Cinema, depicting Remembrance Day scenes at the Cenotaph.
It was also agreed that the Branch should subscribe annually to Lord Kitchener`s Holiday Home.
The Chairman pointed out that the Standard was purchased on the ticket system, members being invited take one of more at 1/- each, the money for which would be redeemable as Branch Funds Accumulated.
These tickets he said were now available and hoped they would respond Heartily and so enable the branch to have their Standard in Readiness for the area rally.
The names of Messrs H Quinton and G Miller were added to the Sports and General Committee.
Diss Express 6th May 1932.
BAND IN THE PARK.
The Diss British Legion band will give the first of a series of open air concerts in the Park at 3.p.m. Sunday, weather permitting, under Bandmaster R. Pinchen.
The Park has been kindly lent by Captain Hugh Taylor and it is hoped that members of the public will support the innovation.
The site is an ideal one and the Band has greatly improved so that an enjoyable time is anticipated.
The programme is follows: Hymn, ‘Thy Kingdom Come O God’; March ‘Young Courageous’ (Lovell); Selection ‘Rose Marie’ (Friml.); Serenade ‘Standchen’ (Heykens, Arranged A Rolfe); Entracte ‘Les Cloches de St. Malo’ (Rimmer) Bells—W. C. Hubbard; Selection, ‘Mikado’ (Sullivan); March, ‘Step Lightly’ (Anderson) ; Waltz, ‘Ecstasy’ (Baynes); Selection, ‘The Lady of the Rose’ (Gilbert) ; Serenade ‘La Paloma’ (Yradier); Entracte ‘My Lady’s Minuet’ (Wood); Hymn, ‘Abide with me'; National Anthem.
From Diss Express Aug 26th 1932
Diss British Legion Band
Program of Light Music
Director of Music George Pinchen
On Sunday 28th August at 3PM in the Park
From Diss Express 11th November 1932.
FALL IN!!! all EX-SERVICE MEN
THE ANNUAL Armistice Parade Diss Sunday Next, Nov. 13th. Parade will assemble at the Services Club, 10, Denmark Street, at 2.30 p m., and will march to St. Mary's Church for Divine Service at 3 p.m.
Special Preacher: REV. J. D. S. PARRY-EVANS, CMG CBE.
Diss British Legion Band DRUMS & FIFE BAND of the 4lh Batt , Norfolk Regt., by kind permission of Lt.-Col. I. B. E. Benn Commanding Officer.
Members of the Women Section British Legion, Diss Detachment of Territorials, Rovers. Scouts. Cubs, Girl Guides & Brownies will parade.
It is hoped that as many as possible will all have Decorations Worn.
Diss Express 09 December 1932
From Diss British Legion Women’s Section
To the Editor
Dear Sir, May I be permitted a small space in your paper to correct the Erroneous impressiom which appears in certain quarters as to the functions of the Women`s Section of the British Legion.
In an organ published under the Auspices of a local organisation there appeasers a statement which can be read so as to infer that the Women`s section exists for the festering of doctoring or that it is run on old fashioned lines.
I would like to call the attention of the writer of that particular paragraph to the fact that we do neither of the two.
We exist in Order to further the cause of the widows, wives and children of the Service men and in this direction have and are still doing Valuable work, all of which is done Voluntarily.
Further we are a modern organisation run on lines equally as businesslike as the organisation the organ referred to represents.
We strongly resent the paragraph, which is clearly intended to ridicule our efforts to raise funds to assist those who, falling by the wayside through the efforts of their Husbands, Fathers and Sons, to save their country in a time of Peril are now in parlous condition.
I fail to see why our organisation should have been chosen by the writer to illustrate his Point.
What we need is sympathy and practical assistance, not Ridicule.
The latter is always available but unfortunately the first two are lacking these days.
The ultra-modern younger generation has evidently forgotten what its elders went through during those terrible years 1914-1918.
Yours Faithfully (Mrs) H Holker Hon. Secretary, Diss British Legion Women section.
Diss Express 13th May 1932
FRESSINGFIELD BRITISH LEGION PARADE.
Under the auspices of the local branch of the British Legion, to commemorate the anniversary of the dedication of the branch standard, a parade of legionaries was held on Sunday.
There was a good muster when the legionnaires formed up in the yard of the Fox and Goose Inn, members being present from the Fressingfield and District branch; Laxfield and District Branch under the command of Mr. W. C. Flatman; and Stradbroke and District Branch under the command of Mr. E. Goshawk.
The parade, which was taken by Mr. L. B. Meek (Fressingfield), assisted by Mr. A. J. Whatling, made brave show with the standards of the various branches (Fressingfield’s borne by Mr. W. Pearce, Laxfield’s by Mr. R. Taylor and Stradbroke by Mr. W. Burrows), adding colour and dignity to the array.
Before the legionnaires proceeded to the Parish Church, Mrs. Hand, on behalf of the residents the parish of Weybread, presented a pair of gauntlets to the Fressingfield and District Branch, remarking that it was a pleasure to be able to do anything for the British Legion.
Mr. W. Tilley (chairman) who received the gift on behalf of the branch, expressed thanks and said it was a very kind and also a very suitable present, for the standard-bearer, when attending any Legion function, was exposed to all weathers.
He then put the gloves on the hands of Mr. W. Pearce, stating they would remain in his possession for such time as he held the office of standard-bearer.
Legionaries proceeded to the Parish Church where the service was conducted by Canon S. W. Goldsmith (Vicar and President of the Fressingfield and District branch). Suitable hymns were sung and Canon Goldsmith, who took his text "Ye Men of Gallilee, why stand ye gazing up into Heaven" gave a stirring address, speaking of the work of the Legion and exhorting the legionaries to support it.
He remarked how pleased he was to see such a fine muster and said it showed they had the true spirit in their work that they should rally round as they had on that occasion.
The Legionaries formed up again outside the Church and marched down Church Street and round by the War Memorial where the customary tribute was paid to the memory of fallen comrades.
Before the parade was dismissed in the yard of the Fox and Goose Inn, Mr. Tilley addressed the men and thanked them for attending.
He intimated that the Fressingfield branch was holding a parade at Weybread Parish Church on Sunday, May 15, and also at Wingfield Parish Church the following week.
Diss Express 1st September 1933.
Dedication of British Legion Standard at Tibenham.
The dedication of the standard of the newly formed Tibenham and District branch of the British Legion took place on Sunday afternoon, when several branches of the Legion with their standards fell in on a meadow near the school, and headed by the Diss British Legion Band under Mr. A. Rolfe. the parade, headed by Mr. S. Pummill. hon secretary, marched to the Parish Church were the dedication service look place.
Those branches represented in the parade were Tibenham and District, standard bearer Mr. W. Sayers (Diss Heywood). escort Messrs. H. Marshall (Tibenham) and T. Chennery (Diss Heywood) ; Pulhams Branch, standard bearer Mr. E. Gorman, in charge of Messrs. B. Punt and W. Bell: Dickleburgh. standard bearer Mr. F. G. Snelling, in cherge of Messrs. H. Francis and J. Love; Kenninghall. Quidenham and Eccles Branch, standard bearer Mr. A. Stiff. M.M., in charge of Messrs. E. Green and A. Mison: Attleborough and District branch, standard bearer. Mr. H. Reeve in charge of Mr. C. Fisher. Tacolneston and District branch, standard bearer Mr. B. Chambers in charge of Mr. Johnson: New Buckingham branch, standard bearer, Mr. G. Hamling in charge of Mr. R. W. Feltham; Lopham and District branch, standard bearer. Mr. R. Wallis.
The service at the church was conducted by the Rev. T. Stanley (rector) and the Rev. E. Kinloch-Jones read the dedicatory' prayers.
The address was given by the Rev. Kinloch-Jones who took for his text “Every man his place by their standards." from the 17th verse.
2nd chapter of the book of Numbers.
The text, he said, was taken from extraordinary part of the Bible, which was full of rules of life, given to the children of Israel.
They, the children of Israel, had life of great difficulty; surrounded by enemies, known and unknown, full of hatred, craft and cunning, all endeavouring to prevent the Israelites reaching their objective the Promised Land.
They had to try a disciplined life and were ' guided by all kinds of rules some of which seemed useless, but all had their meaning and all were of great benefit to those people who were bound to observe them.
They had come to a critical position and a new generation had risen since the war a generation which will suffer many disabilities through that War.
The members of that generation were apt to be very critical of the older folk who look part in that awful struggle end who really knew something of its awfulness and horror.
It became all the more necessary for them to close their ranks and see that every man was in his place according to his standard.
The standards of the Legion were high and made great demands upon every member of every branch.
That occasion was one I when everyone present should call mind the ideals for which they stood.
The objects of the Legion were the succour of those who fell In the Great War and had fallen out of the way of life.
That was a heavy piece of work and could only be accomplished by the loyal co-operation and assistance of all members.
The situation was a curious one on the one hand death every year removed some of those men whose lives were spoilt or miss-handled by the War.
That was true, but every year added to the number of those who fell out by the way.
The second of its objects was the care of the widows, orphans and other dependents of those who served.
They knew that those deserving folk had their pensions but even then circumstances arose in which the British Legion could come to their assistance.
The third was the fastening of brotherly love and comradeship among all its members.
The one outstanding good that came from the horrors that surrounded them in the Great War was the sense of comradeship and ardent love for one another.
The fourth of the Legion’s objects was the remembrance of the ideals for which they fought in the Great War.
The last of the Legion's objects was to foster the remembrance of their fellow citizens who laid down their lives for them.
They ought never forget their comrades who fell by their sides in that great struggle.
That remembrance urged them to carry out the ideals for which they fought.
After the service a wreath was laid on the war memorial by Mr. S. J. Cole (branch chairman)and the Rev. Kinioch-Jones repeated the words of the Legion tribute, they were later Inspected by Capt J. J. Chapman (National Vice-Chairman).
Collections were for Lord Haig’s Memorial workshop fund.
Diss Express 26th May 1933
Dedication of British Legion Standard.
Impressive Open-Air Service at Mellis.
They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning. We will remember them.
A memorable event look place at Mellis on Sunday afternoon, when the new standard Given by Lord Henniker. D.L J.P. (President) to the Mellis Thornham and Burgate branch of the British Legion was dedicated by the Rev. B. Appleyard. (Rector of Burgate).
A large concourse of legionaries representing branches in the immediate districts attended as well as representative gathering of the general public.
Falling in near the railway station, the processional march to the green near the Church, under the management of Mr. Flatman (branch chairman) was headed by Inspector Clarke of Eye.
P.C. Chapman (Yaxley) the county standard (carried by Mr. A E. Boon), followed by the British Legion band (conducted by Pinchen) and the furled standard of the Mellis. Thornham and Burgate branch (bearer Mr. A. Mayes. Thornham. escorts Messrs. A. Kemp. Burgate and S. Abbott, with Melllis. secretary. Capt. Wolton. treasurer, the Hon. John Henniker and vice-chairman. Mr. H. F. Chandler.
Other branches attending with their banners were:-
Scole (Mr. A. Bloomfield, standard bearer. Mr. M Underhill in charge); Ipswich (Mr. R Russel, standard bearer. Lieut. G. T. Mos*. J.P. and W. J. Browning escorts);
Bacton and Wyverstone (Mr. H Baker):
Diss and district (Mr. W. Read. Messrs. H G. Murray and E A. Bryant. Mr. F. E. Debenham in chaige);
Botesdale (Mr. F. Kidgell and Messrs. C. Adcock and R. Wilby);
Eye and district (Mr C. Smith. Lt. Col. R A E Voysey. chairman; Mr. A. B. Sutton secretary);
Marlesford (Mr C. J. Howes).
Woodbridge (Mr. S. C, Booth);
Stoke Ash and district (Mr. R. Lock and Messrs J. H. Lumrais and P. Deverell);
Gislingham and district (Mr. A. Collins and Messrs. H. Witcher and H. J. Eagle): Bardwell (Mr. W. Savage);
Wortham, Mr. C. Goold, Messrs H. Pursehouse and S. Gardiner, with Mr. W. T. Cracknell in charge). Maj. W. J Rice (County Vice-president). Maj. T. H. Bryant. M.B.E. (county secretary) and Mr. E. Bilney (county chairman) were also present.
Lord Henniker. D.L.. J.P. (the President of the branch) took the salute as the procession was marching to the green and after the ex-service men had assembled in the open-air, the dedication ceremony, conducted by the Rev. B. Appleyard, commenced with the singing of the hymns “O God our Help in Ages Past” during which the Mellis, Thornham and Burgate standard bearer and escorts moved forward table where the furled standard was upright at the Alter.
The Chaplain then explained the object of the gathering. prayers followed and then the Chaplain, with the standard bearer kneeling on the right knee, unfurled the standard and with his left hand resting upon it repealed dedicatory prayer and a prayer of thanks.
As the hymn `Brightly Gleams our banner’ was being sung the new standard was carried into the Church, where Flanders' poppy wreath, carried by Mr. R. G. Flatman was placed upon the War Memorial and on returning to the green, the Chaplain received the banner, the standard bearer and escorts returning to their position in front of their branch.
The scripture reading was taken from Daniel. Chap. 6. followed by an address by the Chaplain.
The Rev. Applevard said that at the present time they were told that the standard of religious duly had fallen since the war He thought they would be all agreed that that was true.
They had only to go into the Churches and Chapels to find that by counting the heads of people present the common verdict of the country was true.
It was lamentable that Churches were almost empty Sunday by Sunday but instead of attending Church once a year on Armistice day or once a month could not a regular attendance be made on every Sunday?
The members of the British Legion, he thought, had a splendid opportunity of setting a higher example than they had already done.
Following the hymn “Fight the good fight” the Diss British Legion band accompanied the singing the Mellis standard bearer, attended by escorts, received the banner from Lord Henniker.
The Last Post was then sounded by Mr. E. Vatkinson ; Major T. H. Bryant repeated the silent tribute to fallen comrades: Mr. Watkinson also sounded the Reveille and the impressive service concluded with the singing of the National Anthem and the pronouncement of the Benediction.
An inspection of the parade was made by Lord Henniker.
As the result of a collection a substantial sum was devoted to the Sick Fund of the branch.
Diss Express 30 August 1935.
ANNOYING THE BAND.
Our attention has been called to the fact that when the Diss British Legion band are playing in the Park, on Sundays, considerable annoyance is caused by children playing and romping round.
Not only does this annoy the bandsmen but also those who are interested in the band and music generally.
It pity that a band, which is doing so much to enliven the proverbial dullness of Sunday, should annoyed in this way.
By playing in the Park, they are giving pleasure to hundreds and if the actions of these children cause the band to cease giving their performances.
It will be a great shame.
We appeal to the parents of the children to put stop to this annoyance, and failing any success from this, probably two or three members of the general public might constitute themselves into patrols and keep them in order.
Whilst the topic of the band, we would remind our readers that on Sunday, the performance will be given in the afternoon, owing to the approach of the dark evenings.
6th November 1936
THE SILENCE
On Wednesday November 11th at 11 a.m. there will be recognised the solemn "Two Minutes’ Silence” The recognition will, almost without exception, take the form of a simple denominational service at the local War Memorial and ” The Silence” will be solemnly observed !n every town, village and hamlet in the country.
This will not be so in Diss.
There will be no simple service of recognition at the War Memorial and there will be no outward sign to mark the commencement and end of the solemn period, and what will be the result?
The Silence” will pass unheeded by many, not wilfully do we suggest, but simply because it has been forgotten.
The cry of the ex-service men is, that what they did in the Great War is being forgotten by an ungrateful country, but in Diss they do not take steps to see that the time which should be most sacred to them is not forgotten. and if that is the case, they cannot blame the general public for forgetting ” The Silence” and everything connected with it.
The British Legion should regard it a sacred duty to their comrades who paid the supreme sacrifice to see that the simple service in which all can Join in held and if no other body will arrange it, then they themselves should do so.
The service in Church on Remembrance Sunday is not the same; it does not hold the same meaning to those who lost dear relatives and friends in the War as the short service and the ”Silence” on November 11th, when all the nation from the King to the lowest in the land, as one man and at one time will remember them.
We have such a service previously. not only for this year, but for hose which have gone, and nothing has been done.
It is not even mooted at gatherings where one would expect it to be mentioned.
Why? The British Legion should see to it for future years.
Otherwise they themselves will be in danger of being forgotten and neglected, as the dead of the great war and the terrible hardships they endured are being forgotten and the tribute to their memory is being neglected.
No wondered at, that at the annual meeting of the Diss British Legion held on Monday, the report revealed a falling off in membership?
They shall grow not old, As we that are left, grow old. Age shall not weary them. nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun. and in the morning. We will remember them.'
KENNINGHALL BRITISH LEGION.
The Rev. T. Poole (chairman) presided at the monthly meeting of the Kenninghall and district branch of the British Legion, which was held on Tuesday, about 20 members being present.
Arrangements for Armistice celebrations were discussed and it was decided that a Church parade be held at Quidenham Church at 11.30 a m. on Sunday November 8th, fall in near the Post Office, Quindenham, under Viscount Bury.
The New Buckenham band will be in attendance.
It was also agreed that the branch be represented at East Harling in the afternoon and would attend Wilby Church at 6.30 in the evening.
Diss Express 5th November 1937
CHURCH PARADE FOR ALL EX-SERVICE MEN
Decorations to be worn. Parade will assemble the Services 10. Denmark Street, 2.30 p.m and will march to ST. MARY’S CHURCH, DISS for Divine Service at 3 p.m.
SPECIAL PREACHER : Rev. Basil M. Downton M Rector of Morley (late Rector of Diss).
DISS BRITISH LEGION BAND Also kind permission of Lt.-Co' C. R. Cadge, 0.B.E. (Commanding officer, Drums of the 4th Batt. Royal Norfolk Regiment.
Diss Detachment Territorial s. Members of the Women's Section British Legi Detachment British Red Cross, Scout etc., will parade
This is occasion when all Ex-Service should attend.
SPECIAL ARMISTICE SERVICE at the Congregational Church at 3 pm Preacher: REV. W. M. ANDERSON
Invitation to all Ex-Service Men. -LET US REMEMBER THEM."
Diss Express 12th November 1937.
ARMISTICE SUNDAY IN TOWN AND COUNTRY.
SIMPLE AND REVERENT VILLAGE SERVICES.
There are no frills about the Armistice Sunday remembrances in Diss, they are just plain, homely reverences, all the more sincere because of their simplicity.
Perhaps that is why they succeed so well, why the church is always full, and why the numbers on parade are always so satisfactory.
As is customary, the major part of the Armistice Sunday remembrances was carried out during the afternoon, when, following the usual parade of the British Legion and other organisations, a service was held in the Parish Church in the afternoon.
The parade, which formed up outside the Services Club, was headed by the drums of the 4th Batt. Royal Norfolk Regt, under Drum Major Mills, and the Diss British Legion Band, under Mr. A. Rolfe. and formed up as follows: Diss Detachment "C” Company 4th Batt. Norfolk Regt. (Territorials) under Lt. L H. Tibbenham and 2nd Lt. Rutter. Diss British Legion. Men’s Section, under Capt. E. J. Mann (President) and Mr. A. E. Bowell (chairman); members of the Diss Urban District Council. consisting of Mr. C. Gaze. J.P. (chairman). Mrs. Holker Messrs. R A J. Bobby. M C. Humphrey. J P.. E E. Anness and C. J. H. Browning, together with Mr. G E. K. Burne (clerk); members of the Women's Section British Legion, under Mrs. A. H. Taylor (President) and Mrs. R. Nunn (chairman); and a detachment of the local Red Cross Society, under their Commandant. Miss G. Ray.
The Legion section was formed into order by Mr. F E Debenham. D.C.M., who handed over to Capt. E. J Mann who saw action in Italy and in Abyssinia in 1935, and he supposed that its failure in these two cases had caused it to be regarded as hardly a practical instrument for the aggression in China at the present time.
Continuing the Rev. Downton said they would agree with him that where the League (of Nations) had failed in these two respects, it had been the League or nothing; there had been no possible substitute which could have been used to check aggression successfully where the League had failed to do so.
They had to remember that the League of Nations was not created as a kind of experimental fad but out of the conviction of its necessity after the bitter experiences of the greatest war in history.
To him it seemed little short of madness that it should let slip at this present time just because it failed in one or particular instances.
The League had had its failures but it had had also its successes, and its greatest work had been to act as the conscience of the world in international relations.
Its aims and ideals had permitted open and honourable dealings between nations; it had founded the Court of International Justice at the Hague, whose decisions were respected: and it had done many things.
The Rev. Downton asked them to remember the successes of the League and given time they should all give the League a good name and support it by every means in their power.
In concluding, the Rev. Downton said he wanted to finish on a note of optimism, for he would be failing in his Christian duties if did not do so.
They were placed on this earth through the will of God. and that meant they were to carry out in their life time what they believed what God wanted for
God created and still controlled the world.
God had revealed to them His will through Christ, who told them that God was their Father and the human race was his family.
If he was their Father, then the mankind of the world were brothers and sisters.
They had been asked that they love one another as He had loved them.
God’s wish was that the whole world should live together as children in one family.
How was that possible with human nature it was?
It could be done but not by man alone, but through God’s agency. God could work without them if he so wished, but He did not work that way it was His way to work with them.
It was for them to set to work, with God’s support, to change human nature in every individual, for nations were composed of individuals. Every one of them should try to offer to God a prayer that, to quote the Lord’s prayer, “God’s will done on earth as it is in Heaven.
At the conclusion of the service, during which the Last Post and Reveille were sounded by Drum Major J. Mills and Corpl. J. Butcher, Norfolk Regt. the parade was re-formed outside the church, after which it returned to the Services Club for dismissal until next Armistice Sunday.
11th November 1938
REMEMBRANCE ANNUAL CHURCH PARADE AT DISS.
Remembrance Sunday was celebrated Diss.
The annual church parade was witnessed by large crowds of residents when at 2.30 p.m members of the various organisations assembled outside the Services Club, Denmark Street marshalled by' Mr. F Debenham. D.C M.. and led by the drums and bugle band of the 4th Battalion Royal Norfolk Regiment (T.A.). conducted by Drum-Major J. Mills, by kind permission of Lt.-Col C R Cadge. O.B.E (commanding officer), and the Diss Salvation Army Band, under Bandmaster E. Green and Capt. H. A Horsley S A., marched to St Mary's Church, when Divine service was held.
Captain E J. Mann led the Diss and District branch.
British Legion; standard-bearer W. Read, supported by Mr. E Bryant and Mr. J Palmer and Mr. A E. Howell (chairman), Mr. W C Hubbard (hon. secretary). Scole sub-branch standard-bearer A. Bloomfield, supported by Mr. A. Chapman (secretary), and Mr vV Scrivener (chairman), Wortham branch, led by Mr. W. T. Cracknel (President), and Mr. William Percy (hon secretary), and standard-bearer R Easton; Women's Section British Legion, Mrs R. Nunn, standard-bearer, Mrs. M. Matholie, Mrs W Bale, and Mrs Holt Wilson. Mrs. Deacon, vice presidents. escorts were Mrs. Pretty and Mrs. Barker;
Diss Detachment of British Red Cross Society, Commandant Miss G. Ray and Dr. R. W W Bowes; Diss Urban District Council. Councillors E. E. Anness. (chairman). C Gaze. J P.. R. A J Bobby. C. J. Browning. E. Bevercombe. Mr. C W Cotton (Clerk). Dr G. Vincent (Medical Officer of Health), and Mr. G. W Mann (Surveyor).
Councillor Mrs. Holker was unable to be present owing to ill health;
Diss Detachment. 4th Battalion Royal Norfolk Territorial, and also the Harleston detachments, in charge of Lieut. I G. Rutter.
The parade halted outside the war memorial, where Capl E. J. Mann laid the Diss and District British Legion wreath; Mrs Bales, the Women's Section wreath; Lieut. Rutter the Diss Territorial wreath; Commandant Miss G. Ray on behalf of the detachment. British Red Cross Society; and Mrs. E J. Steggles, on behalf of the Women’s Institute, after a short prayer by the Rev. L Holt Wilson.
A large congregation was present at the Divine Service, which followed, conducted by the Rector, the Rev. L. Holt Wilson Capt E. J Mann read the lesson, and Mr. C. P. Cowell, at the organ, accompanied the singing of the hymns ** Onward. Christian soldiers," and " Praise, my soul, the King of Heaven "
