PAINE 09

2009 is the bi-centenary of the death of Thomas Paine. Diss and Thetford have got together to commemorate a man who wrote the three best-sellers of the 18^th century, who profoundly influenced society and was deeply involved in the American and French Revolutions. He was born in Thetford and worked as a staymaker, a profession he would later continue in Diss before going off to shake the world with his radical pamphlets.

There will be a year of events. Lord Attenborough and Tony Benn have already expressed an interest in taking part. Richard Attenborough has long wanted to make a film about Paine’s life, the script of which (‘These Are The Times’) is available. The man who wrote it, Trevor Griffiths, has also replied encouragingly. Punk folk band The Men They Couldn’t Hang, whose song The Colours mentions Paine, are keen to appear.

There will also be concerts, drama, dance, exhibitions and other events throughout the year. Send your address if you would like to go on a mailing list.