Stunning new logo by international artist Gary Breeze heralds countdown to reopening of Diss Corn Hall

Its supporters have eagerly been waiting for the curtains to open on what will be a new chapter in a historic arts venue's future.

Eastern Daily Press: Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE (Image: WWW.LUCYKAYNE.CO.UK)

And now the unveiling of a stunning new sculpture by an international artist has heralded the countdown to the opening of Diss' new Corn Hall in May this year.

Work funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund began to modernise the popular building, which first opened in 1854, last year.

The new extension will enable a wider range of activities to be held in the hall during the day and evening, with a new cafe and bar open daily.

Now the Corn Hall's new logo can be seen carved into the fascia of the new extension.

Eastern Daily Press: Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE (Image: WWW.LUCYKAYNE.CO.UK)

It has been created by Gary Breeze who, although he is best known for major commissions on pieces for Westminster Abbey and the Scottish Parliament, has his workshop a stone's throw away from the Corn Hall.

When the building is completed, the logo will be illuminated to create a stunning display in the heart of the town.

Mr Breeze said: 'I've spent my life running all over the country installing lettering projects of all kinds.

'Being able to contribute something to such a wonderful building in my adopted home town - and something I'm very proud of - is a huge privilege.'

Eastern Daily Press: Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE (Image: WWW.LUCYKAYNE.CO.UK)

The refurbishment is the first part of the £3.2m Heritage Triangle project to be completed in the town.

It will include the creation of a community garden by the town council's offices and a boardwalk, which will run across Diss Mere.

Angela Sykes, director of the Corn Hall, said: 'I think the thing that hits you when you come into the Corn Hall is the lovely space, light and warmth.

'The new foyer, cafe and bar have been beautifully integrated with the original Corn Hall and I'm sure the people of Diss will be truly be proud of the result.

Eastern Daily Press: Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE (Image: WWW.LUCYKAYNE.CO.UK)

'With the bright and airy new cafe open all day, daytime screenings, workshops, exhibitions and heritage research facilities, we hope that everyone will come and take advantage of this wonderful facility as much during the day as in the evening.'

Eastern Daily Press: Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE Diss Corn Hall refurbishments pictured on March 17. Picture: LUCY KAYNE (Image: WWW.LUCYKAYNE.CO.UK)