Diss Express items from the 1940`s
Diss Express Feb 2nd 1940.
THE ANNUAL New Year’s Party for Children of Members of the DISS BRITISH LEGION (Men’s and Women’s Sections) and of the DISS & DISTRICT SERVICES CLUB, will be held On Tuesday, February 13th, at 5.30 p.m.. at the Services Club, 10, Denmark Street Tickets, which are not transferable, can be obtained from Mrs. H. Holker, Caxton Cottage. Only Children of paid Members eligible.
SPECIAL NOTICE! EACH CHILD MAY INVITE ONE EVACUEE.
Children must bring either a Cup or Mug.
From the Files of the Diss Express November 1940
Diss British Legion Annual Meeting.
The meeting was held at the Diss Service Club and presided over by Capt E J Mann (President).
Present were members and the Committee.
C J Mann (President)
W T Cracknell (Vice-Chair)
W C Hubbard (Secretary)
C J Browing (Treasurer)
Presenting his Annual Report Mr W C Hubbard said that at the end of 1939 there was 131 Members, of these, since then, one Member has died, Five have left the District and Five had lapsed or are in Arrears.
Five new Members had joined (elected), so by September 1940, 124 Members.
He went on to say that we all regret the Membership is lower and there is no doubt the War is the cause, but we hope for a brighter future.
Scole sub-branch had 28 members, but one had sadly died and two had left the District.
During the year, through the generously of the members, 160 children to a New Year Treat, but owing to the War and Rationing it will not be possibly to do it again.
Only Five Applicants for Benevolent Assistance had been received and they were given £5/5/- (Five Guineas) each. (Note all monies in Pound, Shillings and Pence)
This left the Emergency fund with the Balance of £6/5/3.
The sale of Poppies raised £63/11/3
Church Collection £11/17/5
Wreaths £9/7/6
A Total of £84/16/2, and increase of £2\19/8 from last year.
Scole Branch showed a decrease of £1\16/1 on last year.
Great thanks to the Ladies who kindly help to assist the Cause.
Branches had been asked to double their efforts and this result in Diss & District was £103/2/7.
It is in great regret that the Annual Dinner could not be held owing to restrictions on certain commodities.
The Activity of the branch are very much curtailed owing to the War, but we must congratulated ourselves as almost very member is engaged in some form of National Service.
The Remembrance Service at S Mary on Sunday was well attended, although it was not possible to hold a Parade.
Members and Friends subscribed a total of £4/12/6 for the provision of Cigarettes for local men in H M Forces.
20 Packets out of 80 were handed to Mrs E Symonds to include in Parcels to be sent out.
In proposing the adoption of the Report, Capt E J Mann stressed the importance of keeping the Branch alive and said the good Poppy Day result this year showed the importance of the work.
Mr A E Bowell seconded the report, also saying the main objective was to keep the Branch going in spite of the adverse conditions and the effects of the War, and after the war would be many more new branches to add to the tree.
He also thanked the Officials and Members for their work during the year.
The Treasure, Mr C J Browning presented the Financial report.
He reported the Branch had a balance of £3/7/11 at the beginning of the year and finished with a balance of £3/14/3.
He also reported there had been Recites amounting to £27/14/9 and Expenses of £23/15/6.
The report was adopted on the postilion of Mr A E Kerry.
The Elections of Officers then took place as follows;
President Capt E J Mann
Chairman Mr A E Bowell
Vice Chairman Mr W T Cracknell
Treasure Mr C J Browning
Secretary Mr W C Hubbard
Vice Presidents Messrs H G Aplhorpe, W Bale, S Bailely, A E Bowell, A A Bryant, G E K Burne, C Gaze J P, A O Lynus, Sir Edward Mann Bart J P, HG Murray, Dr J C Pearce J P, Commodore M C Poigand, G R Rayner, Dr VP Robinson, Mrs E Symonds J P , Rear Admiral A H Taylor OBE JP CC, Rev Holt Wilson, W P Pulman, F Young and E E Williams.
The Committee
Capt E J Mann
Mr W T Cracknell
Mr S Bale
Mr F R Chapman
Mr W G Hines
Mr H G Murrey
Mr A E Bryant
Mr A Fista
Mr W T Cracknell in proposing a vote of thanks to Captain Mann for Presidency, said his presence in this time of Great Difficulty was an encouragement to Carry on.
Mr S Bale endorsed the remark.
Captain Mann responding, said that although times were difficult he was willing to do his best to keep the Branch Alive.
The meeting was then brought to a close
Diss Express 9th May 1941
The Diss Memorial Service
The Drumhead Service was conducted by the Rector, the Rev J. A. Appleton, supported by the Curate, the Rev. E. A. Prayers were offered by the Rev. H. Hewitt (Congregational Minister) and the lesson read by Major E. J. Mann (Home Guard).
Accompanied by the Salvation Army Band the following hymns were sung: “All people that on earth dwell." “The things shall be.” “Stand up stand up for Jesus,” and the National Anthem.
An address was given by the Rev. R. W. Hlliborne, C.F. (Deputy Assistant Chaplain General) in which he referred to the service as being a continuation of H M. The Kings’ call to prayer.
Pointing out that King George was not the first king to call his people to prayer, the Rev. Hillbome referred to the biblical King Jehoaphat who told the prophet: Be not afraid, neither be dismayed by reason of the great multitude for the battle is not yours, but God’s.” And the king and his hosts went to victory.
This was not always so with the people of the Old Testament, for history told of alternating defeat and victory.
They were God’s chosen people and were used instruments for his purpose When they fought God’s side thev conquered but when they went against God they failed. As long were on God’s side no power this world could prevail against us. but If were not on God’s side no amount praying would help us.
He was sure that many earnest Germans prayed God for victory, but victory would only to the side who were lined fighting God’s battle.
God must not be regarded Indulgent parent for he was more concerned with shaping our character than for our happiness. saw his own image in man or woman, and like Michael Angelo and his angel in the marble, he was to set that image free.
This might entail severe testing. God was not concerned with the happiness of nation or of one nation for His far seeing designs served nation only when he saw a nation was serving him.
If this war was being fought for prestige and power then It was a mockery to pray at all.
Then let us not whine when get hard knocks nor let hypocrites. empire we were not self seeking for we were lining ourselves up on God’s side in the contest between good and evil It was a very solemn thing to begin such a week with Intercession.
They were asking God’s blessing Instruments of destruction and they must ask themselves what justification they had for much an act.
The convection that were fighting with God against the powers of darkness called for a dedication of ourselves to his service.
When a nation’s affairs were going wrong there always an effort to bolster up morale with religion. There was no need to that with for if ever we had righteous came it was now, but must first turn to be nation of true People.
There were signs that the British Commonwealth Nations and the Americans had boon to lead the world from darkness Into light and to do this must not seek out own ambitious ends, but seek first to be God’s people, serving his purpose.
A collection was taken on the field and amounted to over £40.
Parade Representative
The parade consisted of representatives from military detachments under Major Borrell and Major D. M. Eley; Home Guard detachments from Burston and Gissing (Captain M. J. Hunter), Bressingham and Winfarthing (Mr. S. J. Cole), Scole and Dickleburgh (Major T. R. H. Keppell), Tivetshall (Mr. W. H. Pursehouse), under Col. Sir Robert Bignell and Major E. J. Mann (company commander); the Salvation Army Band; Diss Urban District Council, Depwade Rural District Council representatives; the British Red Cross' Society under Miss G. Ray; the Special Constables under Inspector Deyburn; the Diss Fire Brigade and AF.S. under Hon. Capt. E. Bevercombe; the A.R.P. Report Centre Staff under Mr. R. A_ J. Bobby (sub-controller); A.R.P. wardens under Mr. G.. E. K. Burne (head warden) and Mr Manael Lewis (deputy head warden; A R.P, First Aid Parties and Ambulance Depot under Dr. G. CB. Vincent (First Aid. Commandant) and Dr. V. P. Robinson (Division Surgeon 5.J.A6.); Village F.A. points under Dr. J. C. Pearce, J.P.; the decontamination and rescue squads under Mias M. J. I. Paulin; the Diss Women’s Section British Legion under Mrs. R. Nunn; Boy Scouts from Roydon, under Scoutmaster V. Stonebridge and Carleton Rode under Scoutmaster Fenn; Girl Guides from Diss, Carleton Rode and Roydon, Brownies and Cubs.
Diss Express 23th May 1941.
WHERE ARE THEY !
Mr. W. Hibbard, secretary of the Diss British Legion has received the following letter from Buenos Aires: ” Bernardo de Irigoyen 1364, Buenos Aires. Argentina, March 26th, 1941.
Dear Sir, —I have just received the British Legion Journal for the month of January 1941, and noticed your record Poppy Day collection of £102.
This notice has brought back to mind memories of several Diss men with whom I had the honour to serve in 1914/18, and I thought that through your good offices I should very much like to send them, if still living, greeting from overseas.
I refer to Messrs. George, Arthur and Ivan Scott and Tommy Hill all whom served in the R.A.S.C. with the 35th Div. Head Quarters transport.
The first two named were brothers in charge of General Service wagons.
Ivan was our friend of the water cart, and Tommy very ably ran the limber with the aid of his two mules, who kicked everyone except himself.
All of these comrades were jolly good farmers and soldiers and I trust are now to be found among the members of the Legion I have not the slightest doubt that if they are still in your district you will find them in the Home Guard and if they catch a German, I am sure it will hard with him.
Therefore you can find these pals, please be good enough to hand them my greetings and wishes for all good luck and that successful issue to the fight which we are sure of.
Tell them that at the age 51, I should be more of a nuisance than a help and also that it would be one more mouth to fill if I came over here.
However, my son, and they will remember his birth, when I received the news at Contay, is somewhere in England.
I trust you all of the Diss branch are keeping as fit and well as the severe conditions you are undergoing will allow you to and I can only conclude by wishing you all the very best luck and safety for your families.
I have just found G. Scott’s address it was Bressingham. Diss.
Yours faithfully—H. W. ROSS. Late S.Q.M.S.
Diss Express 30th October 1942
LAST CALL FOR BRITISH LEGION’S RECORD ROUND- UP
Saturday. October 31st, marks the end of the British Legion’s nation-wide campaign collect old and unwanted gramophone records for salvage.
Have you parted up with your old records yet ?
If not, please hurry, for the need is vitally urgent.
Shellac has to be imported, mainly from India, and demands on shipping space have thrown us back on to our own resources reclaiming the shellac from old gramophone records.
You may take them to your nearest British Legion Depot—they’ll tell you the address at the Post Office if you don’t know it; alternatively, you can ’phone the British Legion to collect your records.
If you cannot manage either of these, just place a gramophone record bag in your front window, with the mesage "British Legion please collect’’ and state the times that you will at home to hand the records over to an accredited member of the British Legion.
You will able to identify him by his silver " British Legion badge.
We learn that there is enough shellac in six gramophone records to waterproof the primer caps in 100,000 rounds of cartridges.
You all know the moral of the story about the battle that was lost "all for the want of a horse-shoe nail It’s lesson must not be wasted on us today !
Proceeds from the sale of all records collected for Salvage will be divided between the British Legion and the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street. London.
Diss Express 16th July 1943
SECTION BRITISH LEGION
The monthly meeting of the Diss Women’s Section British Legion, was held in the Service Club on Thursday week.
Mrs. Nunn In the chair, supported by the hon. Secretary.
The meeting opened with the Tribute to the Fallen.
There was not a very large attendance and two new members were enrolled.
A post card from a prisoner of war in German hands which had been received the secretary, thanking the Branch for the gift, which was read to the members; another acknowledgement came from H,M. Forces and this was also read.
During the justness, the chairman reminded the members that, the August meeting, there would be bring and buy stall In aid of War Charities Week for Diss.
After the business, afternoon was spent In a social manner, with competitions, community singing and recitations by Mrs. Batchelor.
A competition was won by Mrs. Edwards.
Tea was served by the committee.
The singing of the National Anthem, with Mrs. Barker at the piano, brought the meeting to a close.
Diss Express 23rd April 1943.
(again indirectly related to Diss British Legion).
MORE NEWS FROM THE FAR EAST
Mrs. Branch, of Church Street, Diss, has received an official notification from Records Office that her husband, C/Sgt. A. C. Branch of the Royal Norfolk Regt., is prisoner of war in Malai Camp.
C/Sgt. Branch was a member of the Diss Territorial`s and was reported missing following the fall of Singapore.
A musician of no mean merit, he was cornet player in the Diss British Legion Band, and he was employed in the Crown Stores office, Diss. of Messrs. Youngs, Crawshay, Youngs.
Mr. A. L. Cullum. of 3. Mill Drive, Diss. has received an official notification that his son, Pte. Eric Cullum, of The Royal Norfolk Regt., who was reported missing following the fall of Singapore, is now prisoner of war in Japanese hands and is in Maiai Camp.
Pte. Cullum was a member of the Diss Territorial`s, and before mobilisation was employed the Diss Co-operative Society.
Diss Express 23rd November 1945
GISLINGHAM
A parade was held at Gislingham on Sunday week in memory of those who fell in the two world wars.
The Gislingham British Legion Band under Bandmaster P. Ellinor headed the procession through the village to the church where the service was conducted by Canon Chapman of Diss.
The British Legion members of Finningham and Gislingham were headed by Mr. H. Witcher.
Diss Express 15th November 1946
REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY IN TOWN AND VILLAGE
The Diss Parish Church was crowded to the doors on Sunday when the Rector, the Rev. J. A. Appleton, conducted a Remembrance Service.
Among the large congregation gathering were: British Legion, under Sir John Mann, Bart.; British Legion (Women's Section) led by Mrs. R. Nunn; Diss Urban District Council. represented by Councillors C. Denny (chairman), H. A. J. Bobby (vice-chairman). Mrs, M. A. Holker. Rear-Admiral A. H. Taylor. C. B E, J.P.. C.C., C. Smith and C. E. J. Gaze.
St. John Ambulance Brigade, with Mr. C. W. Halter (Supt.); 78 British Red Cross Section Nurses, with Mrs. E. Calton; the A.T.C., under Flt.-Lt. G. H. Fairs; G.T.C., in charge of Miss J. Porter; the Boys’ Brigade, who paraded with their own band, led by Rev. W. N. J. Clarke; Girls’ Life Brigade, under Miss Cable; Army Cadets in charge of Lt. L. Hubbard, Boy Scouts under Mr. V. Stonebridge; Girl Guides with Mrs. V. Stonebridge; Wolf Cups led by Miss S. Buckle: Diss N.F.S., under Company Officer R. W. Chitty; Inspector A. Sayer, Diss Police Force: Royal Observer Corps, under Chief Observer C. E. J. Gaze.
The Diss British Legion Orchestra, conducted by Mr. A. Rolfe. leader Mr. S. Jackson, accompanied the singing of the hymns; Praise, my soul, the King of Heaven,” “O Valiant Hearts.” " Fight the Good Fight,” and ” Onward. Christian Soldiers,” and also rendered ” Largo " (Handel), "Le Soir'' (Gounod), and Chansen Trlste (Tchaikowsky).
The Parish Church choir, who led the singing, were augmented by Roydon Parish Church choir.
The Last Post and Reveille were sounded by Mr. A. Branch and Mr. S. Freeborn, accompanied on the drums.
Sir John Mann read the lesson.
An offering was taken in aid of Earl Haig Fund and amounted to £l3/10/3.
An inspiring address was given by the Rev. N. R. M. Hawthorn (Rector of Garboldisham and one time padre with the Eighth Army.
His remarks were based upon the Freedom that had been won through the war.
He made three points. One: Did we count the cost? Two: Had we given thanks? Three: Had we re-dedicated ourselves to use the Freedom rightly?
Wreaths were laid on behalf of the following organisations: Diss and District British Legion; Womens Section British Legion; British Red Cross Society; St. John Ambulance Brigade; Royal Observer Corps; Women's Institute: N.F.S.; Girl Guides; Boy Scouts: G.T.C.; A.T.C.; Boys’ Brigade; and the Baptist Church.
In the evening a service was held in the Congregational Church and was attended by both the men’s and women's sections of the British Legion.
An address was given by the Rev. W. H, Potter and there were special hymns. Mr. C. Strowlger being at the organ.
The collection was in aid of Earl Haig’s Fund.
The Rev. D. Rea, assisted by the Rev. L. Baker, conducted a Remembrance service in the Parish Church on Sunday morning, which was also Mayor’s Sunday.
A representative gathering attended, composed of the Mayor, Aid. E. A. Onyon, J.P., and Aid. Miss M. E. Short, J.P., Aid. G. S. Flowerdew, Councillors S. Tillott. J.P.. J. Drake, G. H. Nunn, C. K. Mitson, C. Cupper. J. French, J.P., and Col. F. P. Barnes, wMth the Town Clerk (Mr. J. A. Armstrong) Mace-bearer (Mr. T. Lay) and Inspector Ellis.
Also present were: the British Legion, with Mr. C. Dyke (standard-bearer). Women's Section. British Legion, standard-bearer Mrs. Taylor; N.F.S., under Sec.-Ldr. J. Bailey.
Prior to the service the British Legion, Council and other bodies met at the War Memorial, where wreaths were placed by the Mayor, British Legion. Women’s Section, and other private parties.
The party then marched to the Parish Church and the names of the fallen were read.
The Vicar spoke on True Patriotism." The true patriot, he said, loves his country as his fatherland, and we owed our country this love and respect.
There was a three-fold duty of love: for country, for its people and for its King. True patriotism belongs only to those who regard God as having an absolute claim on their devotion.
After God. man’s love was due to his country, for which he should play, work and die.
The slogan in the recent war was “Fight for democracy,’ but democracy had nothing to do with the country.
It was a political device and no one knew what meant.
Both the Russian and American ideas differed from ours.
It is nebulous and vague.
Patriotism also meant love of the King and his rule through his ministers and Parliament and fourthly it meant love of the people of the country.
There could no true patriotism if we did not pray for our country.
The anthem, Stainer’s What are These," was sung, Mr. H, A. Adams. F.R.C.0.was at the organ.
Harleston tablet in memory of those' the War, erected at the foot of the 1914-18 War Memorial in Broad Street was Sunday unveiled by Brigadier M. at dedication service which was largelv attended.
Special Canon F. M. Pickoring. F. Hatcher ( Methodist) .
The Post was sounded by Cpl, Footman of the Royal Norfolk Regiment. and the Reveille by Cpl. Kent, Goldsmith and Capt. F. R. Wainwright and I Uush of the local Cadet Company, who were in charge.
The procession to the Memorial assembled on the Market Place and headed by the recently formed Bugle Band the Cadets, marched to Broad Street.
Following the British Legion detachment were members of the Harleston and Wortwell Parish Councils. N.F.S. Nursing units and local youth organisations.
A Remembrance service followed at St. John's Church where the twominutes' silence was observed.
The organist was Mr. Walter Allured.
Canon Pickering, in the course of his address said on that solemn day as they commemorated before God those who gave their lives, their thoughts turned also to those who mourned for their dear ones who did not come back.
The Rector said he would like the relatives to know that in honouring their memory they were also expressing to the relatives their deep sympathy. Speaking of the future, the Rector said if they trusted in their own strength they were bound to fail.
Legion wreaths were laid by Messrs. Farrow and Leaper, Parish Council by Mr. W’. H. Stacey (chairman), and Cadets by Sgt. L. Lcoder.
In the evening there was a large congregation at the Corn Hall where a united service was presided over by the Rev. H. S. Bally, supported by the Rector (Canon Pickering). the Rev. J. G. F. Guinness (Starston), the Rev. S. A. Watson and Pastor Hatcher.
The singing of the hymns was led by Mrs. H. Reeve (piano), Mrs. Bligh and Miss Buckley (violins).
At the commencement the National Anthem was sung. address was given by the Rev. H. S. Bally.
The service ended with the playing of ‘Jerusalem by the trio.
Pulham St. Mary The Church was beautifully decorated and there was a large congregation, extra seats having to be provided to accommodate everyone. The service started with the two-minutes’ silence.
The hymn “Onward Christian Soldiers” was sung, with the procession headed by the cross-bearer, Mr. W. Riches, and surplice choir.
The two standard-bearers of the British Legion (men's and womens sections), Mr. Sandford and Mrs. Robinson.
The wreath was carried by Mr. Pigg.
Then followed Field-Marshal Lord Ironside and Lt.-Col. B. Gooch.
The 23rd Psalm was sung. The Lord is my Shepherd." and the lessons were read by Mr. W. Haslett. Lord Ironside then unveiled the Memorial Tablet, those who gave their lives in the two wars, 1914-1918 and 1939-1945.
The Rector, the Rev, G. Rhodes dedicated the Tablet.
Lt.-Col. Gooch recited the Legion Tribute, the congregation responding.
Mr. Pigg then laid the wreath and Mr. Hubbard sounded the Last Post and Reveille."
An address was given by Lord Ironside, and the Rector then preached the sermon from the text: josua iv, 6. " That this may a sign among you that when your children ask their father in time to come, saying. what mean ye by these stones.”
The collection, which amounted to £11 11s 7d, is for Earl Haig’s Fund.
The closing hymn was The Supreme Sacrifice."
Mrs. Minns was the organist.
The Royal Air Force and British Legion then formed up and Lord Ironside took the salute in the Village.
The marble tablet of white on base of Red mottled marble with all the names in gold letters was supplied by Mr. L. Edwards, of Long Stratton.
Diss Express 22nd November 1946
HONOURS FOR DISS
At the annual conference of the Women’s Section British Legion, held at the Royal Hotel. Norwich Wednesday, Mrs. R. Nunn, chairman of the Diss branch was presented with a certificate of merit for efficiency and progress during the year 1946 for the Lance County Cup Competition.
A cup and certificate was presented Mrs. A. Sayer. who until her recent removal from Norwich to Diss, was standard bearer for the Norwich branch.
This cup and award was competed for by standard bearers throughout the county and Mrs. Sayer now becomes the Norfolk County standard bearer for the ensuing year and will later compete in the area competitions to be held in London.
Diss express 27th December 1946
A plea that to best serve the interests of ex-Servicemen.
A suggestion that the British Legion should put their own candidates in the field for the U.D.C. elections was made at the annual meeting of the Diss British Legion.
Saturday July 19th 1947
Garden Fate
In aid of the Diss British Legion at the Manor House Gardens, Diss.
Fancy Dress parade for Children up to 10
Table Tennis, Darts, Dancing and other events
Adults 6d and Children 3d.
Diss Express 13th June 1946.
W.S. BRITISH LEGION, DISS.
At Diss Corn Hall Saturday, 12th July 8 11.30 ADMISSION 2/6 (Forces 2/-)
A Military Whist Drive will be held in The Church Hall, Diss.
On Tuesday, July 15th at 7.15 p.m Admission 1/3. Good Prizes.
Proceeds for Legion Fete Funds, Diss British Legion.
GARDEN FETE MANOR HOUSE GARDENS, DISS (by kind permission of Rear Admiral A. H. Taylor. C. 8., 0.B.E., and Mrs. Taylor) on Saturday, July 19th, at To be opened by MISS I. PAULIN.
Children s Fancy Dress Parade (up to 10 years) and many other attractions.
Please bring something for the Auction Admission 6d. Children 3d. In aid of Halsey Convalescent Home, Cromer; Children’s Lanchester Home, London; and Earl Haig’s Fund.
Diss Express 17th January 1947
BRITISH LEGION
The Diss branch British Legion darts club will play in the County finals of the “People National Darts Team Championship” to be held at Ailwyn Hall, Norwich, on 6th March.
The draw will take place on the stage and play to commence at 7 p.m.
Particulars of arrangements for supporters are available at the Club Room.
Denmark Street. Proceeds are for the Hospital for Sick Children, Gt. Ormond Street, London.
Mr. C. Denny has presented the British Legion with a table tennis table and Mr. H. R. Glyn Flatiran has undertaken to recondition the table.
It will be available for play shortly.
The gift is very much appreciated and the thanks of the members of the British Legion is accorded to the gentlemen named.
Diss Express 23rd May 1947
NEED FOR YOUNGER BLOOD
Diss Service Club Annual Meeting.
The necessity for younger members to assist in the running of the club was a topic that provoked keen discussion the annual meeting of the Diss and District Service Club on Friday, Sir John Mann. Bart presided over good attendance.
The discussion arose when the re-election of the committee en bloc plus one new member to take the place of Mr. W. T. Cracknell elected vice-president, was suggested, names were put forward, and Mr. K. C. Bolingbroke, a member of the retiring committee, said he felt there was a real need for young blood and Mr. C. J. Browning also members of the committee expressed similar views.
The Chairman said it was not really a question of age, but the best ability to the club in an efficient manner.
Mr. F. C. Studd said not many young members had shown enough interest to even attend the annual meeting. "The old ones seem sort of welded in," said Mr. S. Freeborn, supporting the suggestion for younger committee men. said one often hears the remark, 'it's the same old crowd."
Saying it was the old members who had put the club in the sound position it was in now, Mr. A. A. Bryant reminded the meeting there was time when the club had an overdraft of £100.
It was the old members who had pulled the club through.
The chairman stressed that they had to avoid the cleavage between the ex-servicemen of this war and those of the last.
After considerable discussion, it was decided to organise a ballot for the election the committee. Sir John Mann, Bart., President; Mr. W. T. Cracknell vice president: Mr. A. H. Haynes treasurer and Mr. Jesse Cobb secretarv. were all re-elected.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman referred the sad loss the club had sustained in the death of Mr. A. E. Bowell, ”He was" said Sir John, real friend, not only to the club, but to the town."
Increased Membership In his report. the secretary (Mr. J. Cobb) said that during the year. 66 new members were elected and that over the year, allowing for those who had died, left or lapsed subscriptions, there was membership increase of 41.
Continuing. Mr. Cobb said, “sixty members elected during the year seems extraordinarily good compared with previous ones but when you consider the number of young men recently released from the Forces, this number should at least have been trebled."
The committee had endeavoured and were willing to do anything possible to augment recreation for them.
Already, through the generosity of Mr. C. Denny, table tennis was available.
Mr. Cobb referred to the death of Mr. A. E. Bowell, which, he said, was a great loss.
Although the treasurer's report was good, it had to be remembered that expenses in the near future would be very heavy.
Redecoration of the club premises and renovation of the billiards table was planned.
The treasurer. Mr. A. H. Haynes, said the accounts for the year showed a profit of £361/14/5 as against £241/19/10 the previous year.
The difference was accounted for by decrease of £61 in refreshment profits and expenditure of £37 for fluorescent lighting to the clubroom and billiards table.
Subscriptions and donations showed an increase of £l0.
Other items showed little variation.
During the year a further investment of £100 in the East Anglian Trustee Savings Bank brought the balance there to £516/6/11.
In addition, the club had £l00, 3 per cent Defence Bonds and had balance at the Midland Bank of £289/16/11.
In all, the report showed that after adding profit for the year, the profit and reserve of the club now stood at £877/2/11.
No Change of Name Considerable discussion also centred on a proposal that the name of the club changed from Diss Service Club to Diss British Legion Club.
Opposing the proposal, Mr. C. I. Browning felt that British Legion Headquarters might want say on the running of the club.
Other members also pointed out that amalgamation with the British Legion might deprive certain present members of membership.
The Chairman said the club could not exist on the Legion subscription alone.
Supporting the proposal, Mr. Freeborn said the club should be 100 per cent. British Legion, other members spoke in opposition and when put the vote, the proposal was overwhelmingly defeated.
Replying to the vote thanks, moved by Mr. F. C. Studd, Sir john Mann said he felt a useful evening had been spent.
Diss Express 28th November 1947
DISS WAR MEMORIAL
Suggestions at Public Meeting:
A) Garden of Remembrance at the Mere's Mouth,
B) Cottages for disabled ex-servicemen
C) Development the playing field
These were among suggestions put forward for a Diss War Memorial, on Wednesday, when a public meeting was held to discuss the question. Councillor C. Denny (Chairman of Diss U.D.C.) presided and said that he hoped any decision arrived at would be a. unanimous one.
Speaking for the local branch of the British Legion, Mr. W. L. Cracknell asked that the names of the fallen be added to the present memorial.
Mr. P. J. Cooperson put forward the suggestion of Book Remembrance to be placed in the Church, one page to turned each day.
The suggestion of a Garden of Remembrance at the Mere’s Mouth was put forward by Mr. H. Holker, who said the bus park would soon be moving to Park Road.
This idea was supported by Mrs. E. D. Barter, who also suggested the building of two cottages for disabled ex-servicemen. further suggestion was that the Playing Field should be developed and Mr. El. Purschouse suggested that a committee be formed to into the whole matter and report back to another public meeting.
Rear-Admiral A. H. Taylor, said that a larger scheme could not yet be proceeded with and he suggested a fund started and the money be placed in the Trustees Bank, thus helping the country at the same time.
Mr. Cooperson asked that a form sent to each house detailing the suggestions and asking everybody to vote on it.
The Chairman declared that he could not support any referendum, but Mr. H. Carter and Mr. E, Pursehouse agreed that some means should be found of deciding what the people think.
Mr. E. Bevercombe advocated the development of the recreation ground scheme and thought that memorial gates would form an admirable memorial.
He thought that £2.000 could soon be raised.
Rear-Admiral Taylor proposed that a committee formed to consider and report on (a) the recording of names of the fallen and where they should placed and (b) the forming of a War Memorial which will of benefit to the town.
He also proposed that a fund be started. but withdrew this after several present pointed out that people would not subscribe until they knew what was contemplated.
After suggestion by Mr. R. A. J. Bobby that the committee should report to the public meeting within three months, the following committee was elected with power to co-opt: Councillor C. Denny, Rev. J. A. Appleton. Mr. S. Nichols, Mr. W. L. Crackncll Mr. E. Puree house and Miss B. Blyth. Mr. C. R. Williamson agreed to act hon. secretary and Mr. L. J. S. Mann hon. treasurer.
Members of the committee will be pleased to receive any suggestions to the form the proposed memorial should take.
Diss Express 12th November 1948
REMEMBRANCE DAY IN TOWN AND COUNTRY
R.A.F. CHAPLAIN’S PLEA AT DISS
Services of Remembrance in honour and memory of the fallen of the two Great Wars were held in Churches throughout the country on Sunday and in many towns and villages memorials to the dead of the 1938-45 war were unveiled.
ST. MARYS CHURCH. DISS the Parish Council, Terrestrials, Cadets Fire Service, Boy Scouts, Girl Guides. Nursing Services, and other local organisations.
Mr. M. Allured was the organist for the service, which commenced with the singing of the National Anthem.
The lesson was read by Lt. Col. L. Rushworth Ward..
The Last Post was sounded in Church by L/Cpl. Gower, and Cadets Huxtable and Bush, who subsequently sounded the Reveille at the shortened service at the War Memorial.
This service was curtailed owing to heavy rain.
After prayers by the Rector, wreaths were laid by Mr. E. A. Cowell, chairman of the Parish Council, by Mr. E. W. Brett on behalf of the Legion, and by Major L. H. Summerfleld for the Territorials.
There was a fair congregation at St. Mary’s Church, Diss, in the afternoon, when the special preacher was the Hev. G. Parke, Chaplain at the R.A.F. Station, Honnington.
Appealing for the same energies to be devoted to winning the peace as were devoted to winning the war, he declared, “If we can get people to be as efficient in doing good they were efficient in torturing and maiming in their concentration camps, front lines and bombing raids, if we can turn all these energies to uses of good then the very angels in heaven will rejoice.” The Rev. Parke said the war of 1914-18 differed from the war of 1938-45 in that, due to modem science and man’s genius, the war which had recently finished was everyone’s war, and all shared the same dangers and risks.
Nevertheless, the same spirit was shown in both wars and at no time was there any question of giving up the struggle, the greater the difficulty so was the greater the effort to overcome it.
And why, he asked It was because men saw an attempt being made to take away their right to live as men, free to worship God, free to live their own lives, in their own way, and above all to live, not as puppets a state or doctrine, but as individuals.
The sad thing was, he went on, that once we had gained victory men thought, and still think, they could carry on alone and leave God out the peace.
It was alright to ask for his help when we were in a hole, when our backs were to the wall and we stood alone with no one to help us.
But, now that was all past and part of history and God was forgotten and left out of planning the peace.
Life is not a little game of playing soldiers, nor is God just an umpire or referee,” he continued. “There is a lot more to it than that and we will be wasting our time, in fact we will be heading for complete ruin and destruction if we leave God out.
He had seen airmen going out to bomb the enemy kneeling down in prayer beside their aircraft before they went and when they came back.
People who had lived with death at their elbow knew the need of God. It was only when Christianity was practised by everyone—everywhere—there would be peace in the world.
“We must never be guilty of failing our comrades who gave their lives that we mjgnt have such a glorious inheritance, he continued.
The service was conducted by Canon J. A. Appleton, and the lesson was read by Sir John Mann, Bt., Legion President.
The British Legion orchestra under its conductor, Bandmaster A. Rolfe, accompanied the hymns, “Soldiers of Christ arise, “Onward Christian soldiers,” “O valiant hearts and Praise my soul.”
Members of the British Legion the Standards of the Mens Branch and Women’s Section were present at the service, as were representatives of the Diss Urban District Council, Diss Rotary Club, St. John Ambulance Brigade, Police. Boy’s Brigades and Girl Life Brigade, W.I. and W.V.S.
The Last Post and Reveille were sounded by Mr. Stanley Leeder, a former prisoner of war.
Following the service wreaths were laid on the War Memorial by Mrs. M. A. Holker on behalf the Diss branch British Legion, Mrs. R. Nunn Women’s Section. Councillor Eric Pursehouse Diss U.D.C., Mrs. Wallis Women’s Institute, Dr. V. P. Robinson St. John Ambulance Brigade, Cpl. Gordon Cobb Boys’ Brigade and Mr. C. Denny, Rotary Club of Diss.
Before the service the Rector received the Legion Standards.
The service was arranged by the British Legion under the chairmanship of Mr. W. T. Cracknell and secretary Mr W. Cfl Hubbard.
The collection for Earl Haig’s Fund amounted to £7/4/10.
In the evening there was another large congregation for a united service at the Corn Hall, when the address was given by the Rev. S. A. Watson, Congregational minister.
At all services the collections were for Earl Haig’s fund.
Diss Express 16th July 1948
WOMEN’S SECTION BRITISH LEGION.
The July meeting of the Women's Section British Legion, was held on Thursday week, when 30 members attended.
Mrs. R. Nunn presided, supported by the secretary and treasurer.
Arrangements were made for the group meeting on July 19th at Fulham St. Mary.
The chairman made reference to Poppy Day organisation.
She had been organiser for Diss Branch for the last ten years and had now Handed over to Mrs. Jermy, who had been acknowledged by the British Legion Appeal Department as the Diss organiser for the Poppy Day Fund.
Mrs. Jermy organised a whist drive during the evening which caused much fun.
Refreshments were served by Mrs. Panks and her helpers and a happy evening ended with singing of the National Anthem.
Diss Express 25th June 1948
WOMEN’S SECTION BRITISH LEGION
On Tuesday about thirty members of the Women’s Section of the British Legion visited Southend for their annual outing.
The party left early in the morning and the first stop was not made until Prittlewell was reached, and an excellent luncheon was partaken.
At Southend the weather was marred by only one heavy shower of rain, and a most enjoyable afternoon was spent inspecting the rose gardens, over-looking the estuary, and other places of amusement and interest.
