From serving the community to coming top in competitions, local people have earned special rewards for generations. A collection of their medals, certificates and badges is featured in our 2026 exhibition.

 

Diss schoolgirl May Woolsey was the proud recipient of a Never Absent, Never Late certificate in January 1906, a reward for achieving 100% school attendance. May won other prizes too. In 1910, dressed as a milk maid, she was rewarded in the decorated bicycle competition held during a horticultural society show.

 

Joshua Caton was the man who truants had to look out for. The so-called Diss kid catcher became attendance officer of the School Board after a career in the police, during which he served as Sergeant in Diss, Inspector at Wymondham and Superintendent of the Pulham division, which included Diss. Joshua was presented with a ‘purse’ of £17 by the magistrates of Forehoe and the gentry and tradesmen of Wymondham as a thank you. 

 

Special Constables were presented with a badge and whistle after they signed up to support the regular police during the General Strike in May 1926, called to support mine workers. In Diss, 28 specials helped maintain order, guard food supplies and patrol the streets.

 

Diss Lace Association was set up in 1901 by a group of charitable women to provide an income for less fortunate women and girls. One of the founders was Alice Braithwaite Savory, daughter of the Rector of Palgrave.

 

At this time, married women were expected to stay at home although many families struggled on a single wage. 

 

Alice played a leading role in teaching women how to make the then fashionable Honiton lace. Hand made lace was a luxury item and the intricate patterns she designed produced a useful income for lace makers as well as royal patronage and prizes for the association.