In the winter of 1870, a remarkable act of bravery unfolded on the frozen waters of Diss Mere, a serene lake in the heart of Diss, Norfolk.

 

This event, which until recently was a forgotten part of Diss local history, involved a young man named Harry Perry, whose quick thinking and courage saved the lives of two brothers, William and Edward Philby.

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On a cold day in January, the Philby brothers were enjoying a day of ice skating on Diss Mere. The Mere, a popular spot for winter activities, had drawn many locals to its frozen surface. However, the ice was treacherous, and disaster struck when 24-year-old William and his 19-year-old brother, Edward, fell through a weak spot in the ice. The icy water quickly began to sap their strength, and their cries for help echoed across the Mere.

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Harry Perry, a 19-year-old house painter from Diss, happened to be nearby. Without hesitation, he sprang into action. Perry grabbed a ladder and carefully made his way across the ice towards the struggling brothers. Despite the danger to his own life, he managed to reach William and Edward and pull them to safety, one by one. His selfless act was witnessed by many onlookers, who were both relieved and awed by his bravery.

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The rescue was widely reported in the local press, and Harry Perry was hailed as a hero. The local newspaper, the Diss Express, praised Perry for his "utter disregard for his own safety" and his "heroic efforts" in saving the Philby brothers. The community's gratitude was profound, and a public subscription was raised to present Perry with a token of appreciation.

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In recognition of his bravery, Harry Perry was awarded a handsome silver pocket watch. The watch, inscribed with details of the rescue, was a symbol of the town's admiration and gratitude. Although Perry was working away from home at the time, the watch was sent to him, and he expressed his heartfelt thanks in a letter published in the Diss Express. He described the watch as a "very handsome present" and humbly stated that he felt "amply rewarded by the remembrance that I had been successful in saving life and had only performed what was my duty to do".

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Over time, the story of Harry Perry and the Philby brothers faded from memory. The silver watch, a tangible reminder of Perry's heroism, eventually found its way back to Diss in 2015, and was donated to Diss Museum after being discovered at a fair in Melbourne, Australia. 

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Harry Perry's legacy is a testament to the power of individual bravery and the impact one person can have on the lives of others. His actions on that cold winter day in 1870 inspire and remind us of the importance of selflessness and courage in the face of danger. The story behind Harry Perry's watch serves as a poignant reminder of the heroism that can be found in everyday people.