This year marks a special one for the Paisley and District Battalion’s Boys’ Brigade as they celebrate 140 years since the founding of their organisation.
And to commemorate the momentous occasion they’re trying to reach as many people as possible to share their memories of the group throughout the past century and more.
But in particular, the battalion would like to hear from any former members, friends or members of the public about their memories of the 1983 Centenary event which saw national celebrations at the Centenary International Camp at Scone Palace and at the Centenary Salute at Ibrox Park.
Paisley’s president Raymond Shaw was instrumental in the success of Centenary Salute along with many others from the battalion.
Andrew Hosie was another who led the administration at the Centenary Camp – a major undertaking for 2,000 campers from around the world.
Rev Sandy McDonald – David Tennant’s father – minister at St Mark’s Oldhall and Ralston conducted The National Centenary Thanksgiving Service.
In Paisley & District local celebrations included an Anchor Boys Day at Erskine, a Centenary Show in Paisley Town Hall and not one but two Fiddler’s Rally Concerts.
A spokesperson from the Battalion said: “Alas many who were part of these events are no longer with us but [it is] important to record the memories of people who are still around.
“Yes, it is fair to say none of the 1933 officers who attended the reunion in Paisley Town Hall are with us today but the fun and joy shown by these men, many of whom were in their eighties and nineties, was clear for us all to see. Those of us who saw the fellowship they enjoyed could never forget it.
“This celebration is not only about looking back in time,” continued the spokesperson, “but also an opportunity to recharge the inspiration that is young people after the covid years.
“Indeed we hear there are 25 young men who have completed their Queen’s Badge Course and will be put forward for the brigade’s highest award later this year.
“With companies working throughout Renfrewshire from Anchor Boys through to Queen’s Men, yes The Boys’ Brigade has much to celebrate.”
The Boys’ Brigade is a worldwide Christian organisation founded in Glasgow in 1883, with the Paisley & District Battalion established in 1894.
Throughout the years, the Boys’ Brigades have provided football leagues, first aid classes, training for its leaders, and a wide range of activities for boys aged five to 18, including an annual swimming gala.
They also do a lot for charity.
Every year, the boys and staff have supported the Night Before Christmas charity, which collects and distributes shoeboxes or gift bags containing Christmas gifts for children.
And they are even responsible for the twinning of Paisley with Gladsaxe, a northern suburb of Copenhagen in Denmark, after international exchange visits with their brother organisation there led to a formal agreement between the councils of Paisley and Gladsaxe.
People can share their memories of the Boys Brigade by writing to Celebrations at BB HQ, North Street, Paisley or email to headquarters@bbpaisley.org
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