Diss and District Royal British Legion branch marks century

The Diss and District Royal British Legion (RBL) is saluting a milestone today as the branch celebrates its 100 anniversary.

On Saturday, November 29, 1924, a meeting took place at St Mary’s Church Hall in the town and it was decided that a branch be formally established.

A Diss branch of the British Legion was formed in 1921, but its last meeting took place in St Nicholas Street on August 12 that year before the current branch model was formed.

A century on, branch secretary Robert Rogers said: “It is a fantastic achievement and a tribute to all those members of the last 100 years, including some of Diss’ most famous families, such as the Nunns and the Taylors.”

Mr Rogers added that the branch was a vital way to keep memories alive and that the town’s Poppy Appeal, which raised a total of £18,632 this year, around £2,500 up from last year, also emphasised the branch’s importance.

“Also, the great turnout for the Remembrance Event proves the people of Diss want to keep these memories going,” he said.

“A massive thank you to all who contributed to the Poppy Appeal as this could not have been done without you all – the collectors who gave up their time, the businesses that had collecting tins and Dave Hines and his family for organising it and counting the money afterwards.”

The branch is looking for new members to join and carry on the branch.

“We have a pair of members in their 90s, about four in their 80s and about six in their 70s, so we would like to see some younger members join,” said Mr Rogers.

“We want to carry on our traditions for the next 100 years as well as help at events such as Diss Carnival, Armed Forces Day and various celebrations for the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in 2025.”

The branch meets at Diss Bowls Club every third Monday of the month from 7.15pm.

Find out more at branches.britishlegion.org.uk/branches/diss.