Proud Brigade members get civic reception

Oct 26 2010 by Jeff Holmes, Paisley Daily Express

HISTORIC Paisley Abbey provided the stunning setting for a civic reception staged by Renfrewshire Council to honour the Boys Brigade.

A total of 33 boys from the Paisley & District Battalion were welcomed to the Abbey by Renfrewshire Council Leader Derek Mackay and Provost Celia Lawson.

Councillor Mackay congratulated the boys on their outstanding achievements throughout the year.

Provost Lawson then carried out an inspection before presenting the boys with their Queen’s Badge certificates.

It was a proud moment when she also presented eight Boys Brigade members with their Duke of Edinburgh Gold certificates.

Those who received this special honour were Michael Cumine, Douglas Holmes, Adam MacAlister, Fraser Finlay, Calum Jowett, Grant Rankin, Craig Hawthorn and Fraser Jowett.

Battalion president Campbell McGregor thanked the council for staging the civic reception and also paid tribute to Provost Lawson and Councillor Mackay for providing whole-hearted encouragement.

He also took the opportunity to thank the Battalion Ambassadors for supporting the work of the Brigade in many different ways.

Next to take centre stage was Sam Wright, of the 16th Paisley Company (St Columba Church, Foxbar), who gave an outline of what it takes to achieve the Queen’s Badge.

Sam, on behalf of all BB members, then thanked their officers and parents for their unstinting help and encouragement.

A Battalion spokesman said: “We were absolutely delighted to receive a civic reception.

“This recognises not only what our young members have achieved but also gives encouragement to officers in their quest to carry out this important work within the community.”

If you are interested in joining the Boys Brigade, a full list of companies and where they meet is available from BB headquarters in North Street, Paisley.

Staff can deal with enquiries between 10am and 2pm on Mondays to Fridays and from 10am until noon on Saturdays.

Alternatively, contact the office by telephone on 0141 887 3942.