Diss and District Royal British Legion members team up with Ampersand Brewery to produce commemorative beer for Armed Forces Day

Military veterans and a brewery have teamed up to produce a special commemorative beer.

Diss and District Royal British Legion members, Andy Davidson, who served in the British Army, and Royal Navy veteran Greg Henderson, were sitting in a beer garden on Remembrance Day when they had the idea for a beer to mark Armed Forces Day 2025.

They duo, who both live in Diss, then approached Ampersand Brewery, based in Sawmills Road, who offered to brew a the beer to mark the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.

The ale is now undergoing the brewing process and the official unveiling of Legacy 80 will take place during Diss Town Armed Forces Day on June 28.

Greg Henderson said: “Legacy 80 is more than a beer, it’s a salute in a glass.

“This brew commemorates the legacy of those who gave so much, and we’re incredibly grateful to Ampersand Brewery for donating the proceeds to the Royal British Legion.

“Legacy 80 is an India pale ale and will be sold on Armed Forces Day. There’s enough for 200 pints.”

On May, 28 members of the Diss community, including the newly appointed town mayor, Cllr Declan Craggs, attended a special brewery tour to witness the start of the brewing process.

Armed Forces Day offers a unique opportunity for communities to come together and express gratitude for the unwavering commitment and sacrifice of our service members.

The event in Diss will include live music from the 1940’s, military vehicle enthusiasts, re-enactors, uniformed youth groups and veterans.

Diss shops are also signing up to offer discounted goods and services during the day.

Gregg added: “On June 28, the Diss and District Royal British Legion invites people all to raise a glass of Legacy 80 in honour of all those who fought in World War Two.

“We welcome your support.”