Plans for the Cittaslow Diss Lit Book Festival, May 19-24, are progressing well.

Some of the activities planned include an antiquarian book exhibition in the Corn Hall, poetry and story readings, author signings, children's events and competitions.

Just a reminder: the Cittaslow Community grant scheme is still available and we would welcome applications from community groups who want to do Cittaslow projects.

The maximum grant available is £2,000. If you would like to talk through any ideas for projects please get in touch or pop into the Cittaslow Centre.

I am increasingly being asked to do talks about Cittaslow and am more than happy to come and talk to any group about what Cittaslow means
With all the talk of shops closing in Diss, it is worth remembering that the RENS scheme to help local independent shops in Diss is here.
If you would like to know more about the scheme call Jean Page, 01379 898338, as soon as possible.

Grant funding is available through the RENS scheme to helps shops become more viable and Jean would be more than happy to give you all the details.

I was lucky enough to attend the latest Cittaslow UK board meeting in Birmingham recently, along with Diss Cittaslow chairman Tony Palmer.

I find it inspiring to meet other Cittaslow towns and talk through issues and the projects they are focusing on.

Over the next month I will be working closely with Mold in Wales and Perth in Scotland, to help develop the Cittaslow Business Supporter scheme, which we hope to launch not only in Diss, but nationally too.

In June we will travel to Orvieto in Italy for a world Cittaslow meeting, not only to increase Diss' profile internationally but to search for an Italian Cittaslow town, as a twin for Diss.

Cynthia Schears is Diss Cittaslow co-ordinator and can be contacted at the Cittaslow Centre, 7 Cobbs Yard, Diss, IP22 4LB, 01379 642002, 07828 123414 or email cynthiaschears@googlemail.com