Diss ghost walk brings spooky stories to life as it uncovers the town’s history

Spooky anectodes from Diss museum have sparked an inaugural, spirited ghost walk around the town.

Guided by museum manager Basil Abbott, more than 60 people were introduced to some of the town’s most interesting ghost stories on Saturday, with actors taking on the role of key characters.

The crowd learned about strange sounds and sightings in the market place, before meeting historical characters Robert Carleton, the last publicly hanged man in Diss; and Tudor rector and poet John Skelton.

They were then taken through the churchyard and up the Heritage Triangle to Beehive Yard, before being introduced to an 1861 case of shooting and suicide, enacted by Heidi Goldsmith and Peter Hood.

Murders from medieval times were also investigated, along with the history of the St. Nicholas Chapel, The Greyhound, Corn Hall and Tudor House.

The tour ended with a glowstick lit procession back to the museum for refreshments.

Mr Abbott said, “We were surprised by the response and could have sold out three times over – but we had to limit the numbers for safety.

“It was entertaining, a vivid local history lesson and a money-spinner for the museum.

“We have had many requests to repeat the tour and we hope to be able to do so at some point.

“There were many positive comments on social media, with people describing the tour as a fabulous and full of interesting characters, and praising it as a wonderful evening with everyone performing their roles very well.

“My thanks to everyone involved in this marvellous tour about the famous and infamous of our town. It was absolutely excellent.”

The tour was held in partnership with Eastern Region Media and funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.