Salvation Army celebrates 140 years in North Walsham
published on 17 Oct 2025
The Salvation Army in North Walsham is celebrating 140 years of service to the town with a weekend of special events later this month.
Founded in 1885, the local branch of the church and charity has been part of the town’s life for generations, offering worship, friendship and community support. After early leaders, Captain Evans and Lieutenant Bishop helped established the movement locally, Salvation Army founder William Booth visited North Walsham in 1907.
Another notable Salvation Army figure locally is Commissioner Mildred Duff, whose childhood home later became Mildred Duff House, serving as a hostel and later a care home which is known as Furze Hill House.
To mark the anniversary, The Salvation Army at Hall Lane will host a special afternoon of Stories and Songs with Brian Hillson, a Salvationist from Peterborough, on Saturday 25 October, from 2pm to 4pm followed by an anniversary tea. Brian is widely acknowledged as one of the best recording producers in the world of brass and choral music and has completed almost 1,000 productions at various locations including Abbey Road.
To mark the anniversary, The Salvation Army at Hall Lane will host a special afternoon of Stories and Songs with Brian Hillson, a Salvationist from Peterborough, on Saturday 25 October, from 2pm to 4pm followed by an anniversary tea. Brian is widely acknowledged as one of the best recording producers in the world of brass and choral music and has completed almost 1,000 productions at various locations including Abbey Road.
The celebrations continue on Sunday October 26 with Morning Worship at 10.30am, led by Majors Stephanie and Peter Fallows, and an anniversary service at 4pm.
Today, The Salvation Army continues to play an active role in the local community. Alongside its worship services, it runs a charity shop, lunch club, coffee mornings, and a community fridge, which opened in 2024. A brass learners’ group also meets on Monday evenings.
Territorial Envoy Ruth Morey leads The Salvation Army in North Walsham and said she is proud to celebrate the anniversary.
She said: “Our church is open to everyone, and we’re passionate about tackling loneliness and isolation in our town. I’m deeply grateful to our volunteers who make so much of what we do possible. Together, we look forward with hope and commitment to the future.”
