In this issue - Boys' Brigadeleaders.boys-brigade.org.uk/gazette1006.pdf · In this issue: > Crossover > Cameroon > KGVI ... difficulties in arranging visas, insurances, ... A big

VOLUME 114 No. 4 • October 2006

In this issue:> Crossover

> Cameroon

> KGVI

PLUS: Publicity & Recruitment poster

The official quarterly journal of The Boys’ Brigade

In this issue:> Crossover

> Cameroon 2006

> KGVI

PLUS: Publicity & Recruitment poster

R

The Boys’ Brigade Patron: H.M. The Queen

President: The Very Revd Professor

Alan Main, TD MA STM PhD

Brigade Secretary: Steve Dickinson

Headquarters: Felden Lodge,

Felden, Hemel Hempstead,

Hertfordshire HP3 0BL

Tel 01442 231681; Fax 01442 235391;

Email: [email protected];

Website: www.boys-brigade.org.uk

Our Object The advancement of Christ’s Kingdom

among boys and the promotion of

habits of Obedience, Reverence,

Discipline, Self-Respect and all that

tends towards a true Christian

Manliness.

The GazetteThe Gazette is the official publication

of The Boys’ Brigade. Official notices to

members appear under Brigade

Announcements. Opinions expressed

in any other articles are those of the

author of the article and do not

necessarily reflect Brigade policy.

Published by Terry Ingham for the BB

Printed by APG 9, Mitcham Ind. Est.,

Streatham Rd, Mitcham, Surrey CR4 2AP

Tel 020 8239 4100; Fax 020 8239 4120

Design by Twenty-Five Educational,

Tel 0151 632 1657; [email protected]

Editorial TeamMary Care, Steve Dickinson, Chris

Norman, Jan Williamson

Submission of copyAll material submitted with a view to

publication in the next issue of BB

Gazette should be addressed to the

Editor at Brigade Headquarters to

arrive by November 1st 2006.

Small AdvertisementsSmall Advertisements should be sent

to BB Headquarters;

e-mail: [email protected]

Display AdvertisementsEnquiries regarding display advertising

space should be addressed to Chris

Norman, Tel 01442 231681; Fax 01442

235391; Email: enquiries@boys-

brigade.org.uk; Website: www.boys-

brigade.org.uk

“Let the childrencome to me, for thekingdom of heaven

belongs to them”Matthew Chapter 19, verse 14

VOLUME 114 No. 4 • October 2006 • page 97

ContentsRegular FeaturesBrigade Announcements ....100

Special Features

Brigade Council 2006 ............98

Engage a Generation ..........104Commendations..................109Crossover ..............................110

KGVI ....................................120

Here and There ..................106Programme Review................111

Chaplain’s Corner ................119Stedfast Association ............119Around Scotland ..................122

Company Spotlight ..............123

Global Fellowship ................126Obituaries ............................130Small ads ..............................131

NW District Display ............124Athletics Championships ....125Samaritan’s Purse ................127Jamaica 2006 ......................128Trip to Cameroon ................129

EditorialThe Boys’ Brigade – The adventure begins here

I am always conscious of the immenseprivilege it is to serve as BrigadeSecretary and it is a real delight to beable to meet many of the young peoplewho are taking up leadership positionswithin our Companies. In summer I wasfortunate to be able to share with cadetson KGVI courses around the regionsand was impressed greatly not only bytheir commitment to the movement, butalso by their enthusiasm, their passionand their overriding desire to share theirfaith with those in their Companies. Ifyour Company has not consideredsending young leaders to KGVI then Iurge you to think again, the investmentwill be well rewarded.

Further in the Gazette you will readabout overseas opportunitiesundertaken by two groups of youngmen whom I had the opportunity toaccompany. In Cameroon two of ouryoung men met with boys and leadersto find out about the BB there and howCompanies in the UK might be able tosupport them. There were manydifficulties in arranging visas,insurances, and inoculations etc. butthese paled into insignificance at thewarmth of the welcome. In Jamaica, theSeniors of the 7th Northampton & 17th

Nottingham Companies worked on aproject to build a school for one of thepoorest communities. Friendships wereforged, real concern for thedisadvantaged fostered and livesenriched.

All of these occasions have emphasisedto me the spirit of The Boys’ Brigadeand the real sense of family that existsirrespective of the physical distancesbetween us. A family that looks out foreach other and goes the extra mile. Forsome of our young people they will notexperience that sense of belonginganywhere else and we need to bemindful of the responsibility that isours.

As the new session begins I wish youevery blessing for the times that lieahead – The adventure has truly begun.

Steve Dickinson

MANY OF THOSE ATTENDING

COUNCIL set aside a few extradays to explore the many

attractions of Cardiff, particularly alongthe modern dynamic waterfront ofCardiff Bay, in which Council was held.Accommodation was in the Future Inns,which was easy to find as the hoteltowered above most landmarks. Youngpeople had their own accommodationin the Urdd Centre. The number ofregistrations was up on last year, nodoubt partly due to the business on theagenda and also the very attractivesetting of Council.

The weekend got off to a good start onFriday with a RReception at theimpressive new WWelsh Assemblybuilding at the Senedd. While admiringthe architecture or sitting in comfortablechairs, guests were entertained by theCardiff Male Voice Choir, which echoedthrough the large reception area. Awarm welcome to Council members wasgiven by David Aubrey QC, President ofWales District and the Minister forWelsh Culture, Councillor CarwynJones AM. The Brigade President in hisresponse thanked all those who hadcontributed to the organising of counciland wished all well for a positive andinspiring weekend. To conclude theevening, 51st Birmingham BB and 35th

Birmingham GB band entertained usagainst a backdrop of twinkling

lights in the Bay.

On SSaturday morning we were greetedby the sound of wind and rain bouncingfiercely off the window panes and so itcontinued for most of the day.Fortunately, there were minibuses toferry people the short distance to theCounty Hall where the day’sproceedings were held.

To start with guests huddled under theawning on the forecourt of the CountyHall to witness the beginning of therelay carrying message from Cardiff toThe Duke of Edinburgh at the AwardGeneral Council in the EdinburghInternational Conference Centre inNovember, to mark the 550th anniversaryof the Duke of Edinburgh’s AwardScheme. 5th Croydon Company Pipesand Drums Band played and the BrigadeChaplain, Revd T Wilson, prayed for thesafe journey of the message and thosecarrying it. The Brigade Presidenthanded the message to Wales Districtrepresentative, Rhys Davies of 21st

Cardiff and members of the band beginthe first leg to the Brecon Beacons. Themessage will travel by different modes oftransport to designated centres inEngland and Wales, onward throughScotland to be finally handed over toThe Duke of Edinburgh. This will be a

splendid achievement bythe Brigade and

thanks are due to many who organisedthe event.

Day visitors swelled the numbers for thebusiness meeting. Members of Councilwere welcomed to Cardiff by The RtHon The Lord Mayor of Cardiff,Councillor Gareth Neal and by JohnWinchester, Chairman of WalesRegional Committee and BrigadeExecutive member.

In presenting the AAnnual Report JohnYoung, MBE, Vice President portrayedhow active the Brigade is in manydifferent aspects. This included theongoing work of the Development Plan,the improved service provided bySupplies since being outsourced, theplans for the Brigade’s 125th anniversary,leadership and training work, includingthe MV Scheme, Disability AdviceNetwork, Company Support Scheme,Engage a Generation, KGVI, ProgrammeReview, progress by the Brigade’sParticipation Worker and special eventsincluding Firm Foundations, Crossover,the Queen’s 80th birthday celebrations.

Most people were awaiting the outcomeof the motions on the agenda. (Fullerdetails are contained elsewhere in thisGazette).Non-constitutional motion to amendthe uniform regulations to permit,

page 98 • VOLUME 114 No. 4 • October 2006

There was a Welcome…

in Cardiff Bay for Brigade Council 2006

Brigade Council Report 2006 Brigade Council Report 2006

5th Croydon CompanyPipes and Drums Duke

of Edinburgh’s BatonRelay launch

where desired, the continuance ofwearing haversack and jacket and whiteshirt with plain black tie in place ofcurrent uniform on ceremonialoccasions. (The current boys’ uniformconsisting of navy blue sweatshirt, bluepolo shirt or navy shirt and BB tiebecame mandatory from 1st September2006 to replace the above-mentioneduniform). The motion was lost withtotal votes For 113 and totals votesAgainst 290.

Constitutional motion in the name ofthe Brigade Executive to openmembership to girls, where it is the willof the company and the church or otherbody of which the company is part andwhere there is a need. There was alsoan amendment to the motion in thename of West Lothian Battalion, whichwas defeated. After a lengthy debateand a card vote, although the totalnumber of votes For was larger thanAgainst, the motion was lost because itfailed to achieve a two-third majority,which is required for a constitutionalmotion.

After lunch a number of livelypresentations were made coveringseveral BBrigade initiatives. Theseincluded up to date reports on ‘Engage aGeneration’, Company Support Scheme,Programme review, Participation ofYoung People. Tim Pratt, ChiefExecutive of Global Fellowship gave aninteresting insight into the work of theFellowship. He introduced HenryAngetile from Zambia and TheodoreBrown from St Kitts, who gave briefoutlines of the BB work in theircountries. The challenges are how to

address the issues of lack of leadershipand training materials, a need to havetheir own regional offices and the desireto expand the work. The BB generallyhas these problems but set againstpoverty, lack of basic resources and HIVand AIDS being rife, particularly inAfrica, it is another matter.

Members were also challenged by workachieved by young BB members in thiscountry. Stephen Cowden, 4th

Newtownabbey and Robert Botting, 1st

Woodley, gave a presentation of theirrecent visit to the BB in Cameroon,West Africa. Likewise, Andrew Wade,Adam King and Malcolm Semenytsh ofthe 7th Northampton and 17th

Nottingham spoke of their trip toJamaica where they helped refurbish alocal school by building a class roomand clearing a playground.

Mr John Young, MBE, made apresentation to Mary Care, BEM, payingtribute to her 40 years of service to theBrigade as a member of HQ staff. Maryhas recently retired as Assistant to theBrigade Secretary.

Before finishing with this year’s Council,we were invited to BBrigade Council2007. Michael Elliott, Chairman ofEngland Committee, gave us an enticingand amusing invitation to Bradford nextyear.

Business over, everyone enjoyed arelaxing evening of WWelshentertainment. During the courses of anexcellent meal we were entertained bythe very talented Castle Singers, whoperformed a selection of traditionalWelsh and modern songs accompaniedby the beautiful tones of a Welsh harp.This was much appreciated by allpresent and the Castle Singers did notget away without encores. The rain hadstopped and some enjoyed a leisurelywalk back to the hotel.

Sunday morning service was held atCounty Hall. Nigel James and RevivalCymru led an inspiring servicechallenging all leaders present on howour faith can be passed on to the nextgeneration.

This year young people were invitedand they stayed in the Urdd Centre andhad their own programme for theweekend. As well as attending theCouncil meeting there was ten pinbowling and time to look at theopportunities available to young peoplein the BB today.

And so another Council bites the dust.Tribute must be paid to Wales Districtfor the excellent organisation. Anefficient team of Welsh membersworked tirelessly, beforehand andduring the weekend to ensure all wentsmoothly and the comfort and care ofthe guests were uppermost. A big thankyou to the organising committee, whichin no small way contributed to thesuccess of Council 2006. We certainlyreceived a welcome, if not in thehillsides, certainly in the Bay.


Brigade Council Report 2006 Brigade Council Report 2006

Ms Jan Williamson has commenced herposition as Personal Assistant to theBrigade Secretary based at FeldenLodge. Again, the Brigade wishes Janwell as she takes up this role.In July Miss Margaret Bannatyne,Training & Development Support Staffat Carronvale House completed 40years’ service with the Brigade. We aregrateful for Margaret’s loyalty andcommitment.

Following an overview of the workcarried out by Headquarters, there hasbeen a redesignation of roles andfunctions at Felden Lodge. Ms KarenJay’s new title will be Children’s & YouthWork Policy Director. Her role willinclude oversight of the Brigade’sTraining Policy and Safeguarding Policyas well as work relating to theimplementation of nationally recognisedyouthwork standards and qualityassurance. The Brigade will beappointing a Business Director withresponsibility for national functionsrelating to membership, funding,property, supplies’ contracts andinsurance. Whilst there will be overlap,the division of our HQ work intobusiness and children’s & youth workwill enable there to be clear lines ofresponsibility.

From 1st September, Mr Eric Hudsonhas been appointed Director of EnglandRegion. Eric will continue to be basedat, The Boys’ Brigade, Unit A2, CroftHead Industrial Park, Croft Head,Skelmanthorpe, Huddersfield, HD8 9EB(0870 092 0174). The Brigade wishesEric well as he takes on these newresponsibilities.

Republic of IrelandThe Republic of Ireland District aredelighted to announce the appointmentof Mr Philip Daley as National Director

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OFBRIGADE EXECUTIVEThis is a summary of the main itemscovered at the meeting held in Cardiffduring the Brigade Council weekend 1-3rd September 2006.New members were welcomed:Mr R Baker, EnglandBrigade Office Bearers were re-elected:Brigade President: The Very RevdProfessor Alan Main, TD MA Vice Presidents: Mr J Young MBE, Mr NBatty, Mr C Row. Mr J Young was electedas Chairman of the Executive.Brigade Treasurer: Mr J T H Williams

Brigade Chaplain: The Revd T H WilsonThe Executuive approved theappointment of Messrs Whiting &Partners as the Brigade’s Auditors forsession 2006-07. The accounts for theyear ended 31.03.06 were received andwould be presented to Council on 2nd

September.

Other matters referred to in a meeting ofthe Brigade Executive following theAnnual General Meeting included:• The Executive agreed an amendment

in regulations regarding the renewalof Holiday Leadership Certificates(see separate announcement).

• The Executive agreed in principle toa proposal from West MidlandsDistrict to have a garden at theNational Memorial Arboretum.

• The Executive received a report onthe Programme Review for CompanySection and Seniors.

Change in regulation to HolidayLeadership CertificatesThe Executive agreed that therequirements for the renewal of theHoliday Leadership Certificate bebrought into line with those already inplace for Camp Craft Certificate.

Current regulationsDuration and Renewal of HolidayLeadership CertificatesHoliday Leadership certificates last for aperiod of five years and can be extendedby further periods of five years byundertaking appropriate re-training.

New regulationsDuration and Renewal of HolidayLeadership CertificatesHoliday Leadership certificates last for aperiod of five years and can be extendedby further periods of five years byindividual officers submitting log sheetsto the appropriate Regional Headquartersgiving brief details of holidays attendedand the responsibilities they haveundertaken.

Those seeking renewal of their HolidayLeadership certificate by this method willneed to undertake some responsibilitiesat least one holiday every five years.

If no holiday is attended in the five yearperiod, the certificate will lapse and theofficer will need to attend a trainingcourse. Log sheets will be available fromRegional Headquarters and will beincluded in the next re-print of theLeader Training Record file. Copies willalso be available on the BB web site.


Brigade announcements Brigade announcements

BRIGADE EXECUTIVEThe following have been elected to theBrigade Executive for the session 2006/07:England: Messrs R Baker, J Eales, MElliott, Revd Dr R ReidN Ireland: Mr T W P Donaldson, Miss SMackey, Revd T McCormick, Mr JThornberryRepublic of Ireland: Mr R L ButtimerScotland: Messrs A Joss, A McIntosh, DRichmond, L SteinWales: Mr J WinchesterUnder 26: Mr M Baron

REGIONAL COMMITTEESEngland: Ms G Archer (Eastern); Mr J

Eales (South Midlands); Mr M Elliott(North Midlands); Mr J Goodbody(West of England and CI); Mr APannell (London) Mr C Preston(Yorkshire & Humberside); Revd Dr RReid (North West); Mr N Thompson(North of England); Mr R Vogel(Southern); Mr D While (WestMidlands).

Northern Ireland: Rev T McCormick,Mr T.W.P. Donaldson, Mr M Murdock,Mr H Patton, Mr M Currie, Mr FPicton, Mr D Montgomery, Mr DThompson, Mr P Ballentine, Mr DDoggart, Mr T Dundee, Mr D Smyth,Mrs I Lowry, Mr P McCarroll, Miss SMackey, Mr N Clingan, Mr JThornberry, Mr T McMurray, Mr ISampson, Mr B Andrews and Miss CEdmondson.

Republic of Ireland: Miss E Armstrong,Mr R L Buttimer, Mr P Daley Mr MDenner, Mr W Galloway, Mr AThackaberry, Mr A Vincent.

Scotland: Mr A Joss (Mid-Scottish); MrR Kyle (Glasgow); Mr A McIntosh(North Scottish); Mr D Richmond(West Lowland); Mr D Sneddon(Lanarkshire); Mr L Stein (EastLowland).

Wales: Mr J Boase and Mrs C Pasley(Cardiff & Vale of Glamorgan); Mr ABarley and Mr C Smith (Newport andGwent); Nr N Pybus (North Wales); MrJ Winchester (South & West Wales).

BRIGADE STAFFFollowing nineteen years of loyal serviceto the Brigade, Mr Martyn Waters is totake up a new position with ThamesValley Probation Service from October2nd. Martyn has served as Field Officerfor Wales, Regional Director for Englandand Wales and more recently as Directorof Programmes. The whole Brigadewishes Martyn well as he takes on newchallenges and is grateful for thededication to the movement he hasshown.


reference is made to Boys thisshould be interpreted as members.

If the above amendment to the BrigadeExecutive motion is passed it will benecessary to amend the followingConstitution Articles.Therefore, it is proposed thatConstitution Article 5 be deleted andsubstituted by the following:5. The age limits of members of the

Brigade shall be as defined by theRegulations as to Age Limits.and: it is proposed thatConstitution Article 8a be deletedand substituted by the following:

8a. The Brigade shall be composed ofCompanies. Each Company shalldivide its members into group onthe basis of age. These groups shallbe designated by category ofmembership.

The amendment was taken first and thevote was as follows:

Votes Cast For AgainstOrdinary 24 123Proxy 28 62Postal 26 134TOTAL 78 319

The amendment was defeated and themotion in the name of the BrigadeExecutive became the substantivemotion.


The motion failed to reach the twothirds majority required for aconstitutional motion and was defeated.

CORRECTIONIn the July 2006 Gazette the winners ofthe Masterteam were listed as 6th EastKilbride. It was in fact the 7th EastKilbride and we apologise for anydisappointment caused.

Ayr Battalion Supplies DepotWe apologise that the changed openingtimes for session 2006/07 shown belowwere not indicated in the suppliescatalogue distributed in August.

• SATURDAYS (10am-12.30pm)26/8/2006 – 19/05/2007

• WEDNESDAYS (6.30pm-7.30pm)30/8/2006 – 1/11/2006;28/2/2007 – 16/05/2007

Closed during Christmas Holidays andEaster Saturday.


UK Marching Band Championships 2007The UK Marching Band Championshipswill take place on Saturday 2nd June 2007at Northwood Stadium, Hanley, nearStoke on Trent. It is run jointly with TheGirls’ Brigade (England and Wales) and isopen to BB and GB bands. The eventincludes the following categories:Indoor Event – Beginners: for bands

with little or no previous experience ofcompetitions. Novice: for bands withmore experience. Open: for allcomers. Contest: for those with moreadvanced musical arrangements andan attractive ‘display’. Championships:for bands performing at a higher level.

Outdoor Event – Cadet Class: for bandswith some experience of competition.Open Class: for experienced bands.

Individual competitions: Drum,Bugle, Valved wind instruments (e.g.trumpets).

Details of the event, entry forms and acopy of the regulations are availablefrom Brigade Headquarters, 01442231681 or email: [email protected] The organisers arelooking for people to help on the day.The steering group is also keen toinvolve more young people agedbetween 16 and 25 in the planning anddelivery of this event.

Motions to Brigade CouncilThe results of the motions proposed atBrigade Council on 2nd September 2006are as follows:A non constitutional motion in thename of the following 5 officers:P Hern 1st Malvern, W R Inglis 45thGlasgow, H E Harrison 11thNorthampton, D Allan 2nd Alton, GTaggart 25th BelfastThat the Uniform Regulations currentfrom 1 September 2006 shall beamended as follows:Add to 3:On ceremonial occasions, at the option ofthe relevant officer and by those inpossession, a white haversack may beworn over the right shoulder and underthe belt, which may alternatively bebrown with brass Boys’ Brigade buckle; inaddition a dark blue or black jacket and aplain white shirt, with a plain black tie inplace of the BB tie, may be worn in placeof the navy blue sweatshirt, blue poloshirt or navy blue shirt detailed above.Add to 4:On ceremonial occasions, at the optionof the relevant officer and by those inpossession, a dark blue or black jacketand a plain white shirt, with a plain

black tie in place of the BB tie, may beworn in place of the navy bluesweatshirt, blue polo shirt or navy blueshirt detailed above.

Add to 5:On ceremonial occasions when jacketsare worn by members as detailed above,and at the option of the relevant officerand by those in possession, officers maywear a plain dark jacket, to match theirtrousers / skirt; a plain white shirt, witha plain black tie in place of the BB tiewill then be worn in place of the navyblue sweatshirt, white polo shirtdetailed above.


The motion was defeated

Constitutional Motion in the nameof the Brigade ExecutiveIt is proposed that Article 1 of theBrigade Constitution be deleted andreplaced by the following:1a. The organisation shall be called

‘The Boys’ Brigade’ (the ‘Brigade’).1b. Membership is open to Boys.

Where it is the will of the Companyand of the Church or other body ofwhich the Company is a part, andwhere they have agreed a need,membership is also open to Girls.

1c. With the exception of Articles 1a,36, 40, 43 and 44, where thecontext so admits, after the word‘Boy’ or ‘Boys’ shall be added theword ‘or Girl’ or ‘or Girls’.

Proposed Amendment to theConstitutional Motion in the name of theBrigade Executive by West LothianBattalionIt is proposed that Article 1a, 1b and 1cof the Brigade Executive’s ConstitutionalMotion be amended by the following:1a. The organisation shall be called ‘The

Boys’ Brigade’ (The Brigade) and shallconsist of Boys’ Brigade Companiesand Brigader Companies.

1b. Membership of Boys’ BrigadeCompanies is open to Boys. Whereit is the will of the Company and ofthe Church or other body of whichthe Company is a part, and wherethey have agreed a need, aCompany may operate as aBrigader Company. Membership ofBrigader Companies is open toBoys and Girls.

1c. With the exception of Articles 1a,1b, 8f, 36, 40, 43 and 44 when



• for a short distance in anunexpected necessity, if the rightchild restraint is not available,

• where two occupied child seats inthe rear prevent the fitment of athird child seat.

[Note – children under 12 years in frontseats must use the appropriate restraint –that is the law already.]

“Child restraints” is the collective termin the seat belt wearing legislation for:• baby seats – rear-facing and for

children up to 13 kg (approx agebirth to 9-12 months);

• child seats – forward facing and forchildren 9 kg to 18 kg (approx 9months to 4 years);

• booster seats – for children 15 kg to25 kg (approx 4 to 6 years);

• booster cushions – for children 6years and up.

£30 fixed penalty notice for non-compliance. The maximum fine is £500.

Passengers in minibuses, buses andcoaches that have seatbelts fitted willalso be required to wear those seatbelts,and operators will be required to notifypassengers that seat belts must be used.

• The use of booster seats is not amandatory requirement inminibuses

• Seat belt wearing is alreadycompulsory in mini-buses. Thedriver is responsible for seat beltwearing by children under 14years

• The new regulations will meanthat seated passengers aged 3years and above will have to useseat belts where they are fitted inthe larger buses and coaches. Invehicles over 16 seats, the driveris exempt from this responsibilitybecause he cannot be expected tomonitor seat belt wearing anddrive safely at the same time

• The driver or operator will berequired to take reasonable stepsto remind passengers of the needto wear seat belts includingreminding them of thisrequirement at the beginning ofthe journey. Alternatively a signthat takes the form of a pictorialsymbol (shown at the end of thisarticle) depicting a white figureon a blue background should bedisplayed at each passenger seat.

Further information at: www.childcarseats.org.uk or BBHQ

I have been richly blessed inbelonging to the BB family and countit a privilege to have made so manyfriends, whom I will alwaysremember with affection. From thebottom of my heart I thank you forthe wonderful gifts and letters Ireceived at Brigade Council. I shalltreasure the letters for ever. The BBwill always be part of me, I believe init, which is why it will never leave me.

May you all continue with thewonderful work you are doing forGod by serving your boys in yourcompanies week after week. Youhave so much to give them. The boysneed you and if you are faithful theywill be too. With huge thanks formaking my BB service so enjoyableand fulfilling.I am taking a host of memories withme and hope to keep in touch withthe aches and pains and pleasuresand successes of the BB for manyyears to come.

Mary Care

Retirement of Mary Care BEMBrigade Council was the end of achapter in my story with the BB over40 years. It culminated on theSaturday afternoon of BrigadeCouncil in Wales and I could nothave dreamed of a better ending.Since retiring at the end of May Ihave been overwhelmed by love andmessages of goodwill. It certainlydoes not feel like 40 years since Istarted in Abbey House when in thewinter we had to carry a bucket ofcoal up many flights of stairs to makea fire in a room I shared with DavidWhite, Junior Section Secretary,before we started the day’s work.

APPOINTMENT OF BUSINESS DIRECTOR

Based at Brigade Headquarters,Felden Lodge

Main responsibilities will includeoversight of the following:Membership information;

Brigade Contracts;

Property;

Funding;

Insurance.

For further details and an

application form, please contact

Ms Jan Williamson (PA to the

Brigade Secretary) at Felden

Lodge.

Jan.Williamson@

boys-brigade.org.uk

01442 231681

Closing date for applications

Friday 27th October

USE OF SEAT BELTS ANDBOOSTER SEATS

From September 2006, with fewexceptions, children travelling in carswill be required to use anappropriate child restraint. TThisincludes children being transportedin leaders’ vehicles to/from BBevents. In vehicles where seat beltsare fitted, children aged 3 years to135 cm in height (or 12th birthday,whichever they reach first) MUSTuse the appropriate child restraint.

Three exceptions allow thesechildren to travel in the rear of a carand use an adult belt: • in a taxi, if the right child

restraint is not available;


International Junior Section Team Games 2005/06There were 228 entries into thisyears competition from around theworld including Austrailia,Malaysia, Bahamas, Scotland,Republic of Ireland, Wales,Northern Ireland and England. Thetop ten were as follows:Full results can be found on the

BBUK website at: www.boys-

brigade.org.uk/ international/

The Nottingham Battalion hosted thecompetition in May at thePowerleague Soccercentre inNottingham for BB members.Eighteen teams from Ireland,Scotland and England took part. TheLord Mayor of Nottingham,Councillor Mohammed Munirpresented the prizes. The BB inNottingham was awarded £150 fromThe Co-operative Group’sCommunity Dividend Fund towardsthe cost of prizes, medals andtrophies. Congratulations to all thosewho took part in a splendid day.

Outdoor Under 14 5-a-side Football Competition 2006

David Nunn Memorial Trophy and Robin Hood Knockout Competition:

Winners Cup plus gold medals 2nd Sutton-in-Ashfield Company

Runners-up silver medals 17th Nottingham Company

Top Goal Scorer Trophy Robert Taylor, 17th Nottingham Company.

Runner-up £5 gift voucher Callum Reid, 1st Viewpark Company

(Glasgow)

Best Sporting Team (Gascoine Cup) 3rd Hemel Hempstead Company

Mini-League Competition Winners The Clifford Jones Memorial Trophy

– 2nd Bedford Company.

Robin Hood Knockout

1 5th East Durham, England (52 points)

2 1st Caledon, Northern Ireland (64 points)

3 10th North Suffolk, England (85 points)

4 3rd Wallasey, England (88 points)

5 19th Nottingham, England (102 points)

6 1st Sittingbourne, England (121 points)

7 18th South East Essex A, England (143 points)

8 1st Saffron Walden, England (155 points)

9 6th Grimsby B, England (157 points)

10 1st Cranham, England (159 points)

Over 200 competitors set out onthe annual BB Cleveland Hike inJune. Due to the fitness of thecompetitors and the competentmap reading all teams finished.

Ingleby Greenehowe was the

starting point and the first teams

set off at 7.30am after kit check and

map reading test, with the rest

following at short intervals. There

were checkpoints along the way and

when the weather turned hot and

sunny the teams had to ensure they

drank plenty of water and applied

sun cream.

Overnight camp was at Ingleby

Greenhowe, the teams having

completed a circle and were back

where they started that morning.

The later teams had to put tents up

and eat meals in the rain that

always falls on some part of hike

weekends. The teams left on Sunday

morning at 6 am in mist and damp,

heading for Battersby Moor. After

stops at Baysdale Junction and

Castleton Bridge the competitors knew

they were almost home. Finally, at

Danby Village Hall supporters and hike

staff were waiting to cheer them on.

RESULTS12-19 winners:1st Hartlepool Battalion BB (A) Team

2nd 4/5th Kilmarnock BB (A) Team

Winners of the Veterans: 1st 1st West Kilbride BB (D) Team

2nd WCD

Expedition Team Winners: 1st 3rd Gateshead BB (A) Team

2nd 2nd West Kilbride BB (A) Team

A well earned hot meal was most

welcome. The teams had covered

approximately 33 miles. The prize

giving ceremony was conducted by

Tom Parkin, Cleveland Hike

Chairman, and the awards and

certificates were presented by the

Director of Prestons of Potto and

his wife.

• Support from existing groups• Ideas and support from chaplains• Local Publicity• Research• Send churches information about the

diversity of The Boys’ Brigade today• Contact to arrange a face to face

meeting• Meet to promote the work of The

Boys’ Brigade as relevant to theiryouth work

We were aware of how important thesupport and encouragement of all ourexisting groups and volunteers would beto the success or failure of the pilot. Wewanted everyone to know that whilst wewere committed to exploring newgroups and new ways of working, thatwas not to the neglect of our establishedgroups. We also invited chaplains fromexisting companies to come to aconference and their input andconstructive feedback was useful inmoving forward.

We realised we needed to ‘engage’ withthe media and use it to our advantage asmuch as possible. By attracting presscoverage for the project, through articlesin local newspapers and through abroadcast on local BBC Radio, we wereable to get some excellent exposure andthe feedback we subsequently receivedhighlighted the effectiveness of usinglocal media.

The purpose of our research was toestablish a mailing list of churches,strategically chosen from a set of clearcriteria: Churches where there had beena BB group in the past, where there wasgirls’ work but no boys’ group andfinally, in areas of the county where theBB was under-represented. Once we hadour list, packs were sent containinginformation, a DVD and a letteradvising that we would be contactingthem to discuss the possibility ofmeeting with them. However, key

volunteers were needed tomake these phone calls andsome training was needed to

prepare them for some of the questionsor responses they might get. Thepurpose of the calls was to arrange aface to face meeting not to have theconversation on the phone!


A Good Start

Engage a generation

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE BATTALION wasasked if we would like to pilot alocalised development campaign

as part of the ‘Engage a Generation’initiative. We had a real desire to be

involved in the campaign andwere delighted to be asked

to move forward withthis bold, proactive

approach todeveloping the workof The Boys’Brigade. Inconsidering it, wefelt there was avery clear processthat we wouldneed to follow to

achieve ourobjectives.

anyone state what William Smiththought or would think about thepresent day. Since that time andespecially more recently I havemet many people keen to espousethe mind of WAS. Interestinglythe views expressed are oftendiametrically opposed; oneperson telling me that WASwould think one thing andanother telling me the directopposite.

Often it seems that individualsuse the spirit of WAS topromote their own views.

I think we live with danger ifwe try to relate our reaction tothe situations facing youngpeople in the 21st century tothat facing the Founder in theclosing years of the Victorianera which undoubtedlyinfluenced his thinking.When I am asked, “Whatwould William Smith dotoday?” I have to be honestand say I don’t know. Butfrom my readings of theFounder’s own words I doknow that he did indeedput more in, that he wasdeeply concerned forindividuals, and that hissole motivation was hisChristian Faith and his desire to shareit.

It is clear that the Founder created anorganisation that was fit for purpose,that served its objectives and becauseof this was rapidly taken up by thosefacing the same challenges. We todayneed to ensure that The Boys’ Brigadeis fit for purpose. This will mean goingback to our basic core principles and

IAM WRITING THIS ARTICLE the weekbefore Brigade Council. By thetime you read this, important

decisions about our future will havebeen made. Over the past few weeks,many have been keen to share theirviews on these matters and this hasprompted me to write as I do today.

I remember my first BB Display as athirteen year old awaiting the awardof my first badges. I had learned themotto, object, basic facts about theFounder and had practised receivingawards. The Inspecting Officer was aBattalion Vice President and afterpresenting the awards andcomplimenting the Company, he thenwent on to tell this story:

A visiting local preacher accompaniedby his daughter was preaching at achapel in the Yorkshire Dales. As hearrived he noticed in the porch acollecting box which was labelled, “Forthe visiting preacher’s expenses”. He putin 25p (I was thirteen a long time ago)and went on to take the service. As hewas leaving the steward called him toone side and told him that there wasalways a collection for the preacher’sexpenses. The steward opened the boxand gave the preacher the contents –25p. The preacher didn’t comment,thanked the steward and went on hisway. On his way home his daughterlooked at him and said, “Dad, If you’dput more in, you’d have got more out.”

The analogy was then made as is alwaysthe case on such occasions with BB life– the more you put in, the more you’llget out. The Inspecting Officer thenadded that this is what the Founderwould want us do.

This was the first time that I had heard


What would William

Smith do?

experience working with children andyoung people. The meetings were thestart of an on-going dialogue with thechurch leadership about their churchesyouth work and all were very positive.We are confident that we will have atleast one new group starting nextsession in an area where the BB,historically, has never had anyrepresentation.

The whole process was a great

We were able to arrange six face to facemeetings with church leaders fromseveral different areas anddenominations. A return of 10% on thepacks we sent out, which we felt wassuccessful. At the meetings we were ableto share the strengths of The Boys’Brigade in a very real way; our ability toreach young people who the churchmight have had difficulty; our resources,training and the support network; anational organisation with 123 years of

from that defining the methods ofdelivery that are most effective. Thatdoesn’t mean change for change sake,but a constant evaluation to ensure thatwe are giving our very best to theyoung people in our care.

Isn’t that what Sir William would havewanted? Or, have I fallen into the sametrap?

opportunity to break down anymisconceptions ministers may have hadabout The Boys’ Brigade The process isstill very much on-going but we arecommitted to it and we have made agood start!


Reach Out Awards 2006

Some members of 32nd Nottingham Company.

The Reach out Awards 2006 recognise

those who help others and were

sponsored by the Nottingham Evening

Post and BBC Radio Nottingham in

association with Nottinghamshire

County Council and Royal Mail. There

were 10 categories and the 32nd

Nottingham Company was nominated

for and won the ‘Children in the

Community’ section, based on its

involvement in the Emmanuel House

Christmas Appeal 2005 where Junior

Beating Retreat

Ten year old Errin Noland of the 1stHillingdon Company wanted to take part inthe Massed Bugle Band but was not tallenough to play a drum. It was decided thathe could be drum major, which he did withsmartness and aplomb. He must be theyoungest ever drum major in the Brigade.This was part of the annual ceremony of theBeating Retreat by the massed bands of BBLondon District at the Royal Hospital,Chelsea. Other items included West LondonGym Team, tent pitching demonstration,drill by 1st Enfield and Pipes and Drums of5th Croydon Company.

The ‘opening’ ofSports and Things.

Sports and Thingsaccompanied by Ms Anne Mulligan,

Moderator for the Presbytery of

Edinburgh and Mr James Ralston,

Battalion President. Various outdoor

sports were played and for the less

sporty there were storytelling, circus

skills and juggling and craft workshops.

It is hoped this will be the first of many

joint events with churches within the

Battalion area.

Big BirminghamBirthday

Junior Section members Stuart Ash andMichael Walton of 73rd BirminghamCompany presented a bouquet of flowersfrom the Company to Mrs Lilian Riley whocelebrated her 100th birthday on 31st May2006. Mrs Riley started the Life Boy Teamat Lyndon Methodist Church in 1939 atthe outbreak of war. Her late husbandfounded the company in 1940. Thecompany in its 67th year continues toflourish thanks to that initial vision anddetermination shown by Lilian and herhusband.

Here and there Here and there

Section members collected together

boxes of toiletries and their

sponsorship and maintenance of a

community re-cycling unit for Broxtowe

Borough Council. At a special

ceremony at Nottinghamshire County

Hall, the company was presented with

a trophy, certificate and cheque for

£100 together with various gifts from

Radio Nottingham. The company is

also involved in other charity fund

raising throughout the session.

This event was run in partnership with

Edinburgh Presbytery for Anchor and

Junior Section boys and Sunday school

children 5-12 years at the newly

refurbished Edinburgh, Leith and

District Battalion HQ. One hundred

children took part, which was formally

opened by Mark Lazarowicz, MP for

Edinburgh North and Leith,


JS Bible competition winners; Barnabas Pittsand Ivo Almond

London JS Bible TrophyThe 2nd West Kent (Blackheath)

Company was pleased and honoured to

receive the London District Junior

Section Bible Trophy. The team

consisted of JJ McWhinney, Thomas

Dalton, Ivo Almond and Barnabas Pitts.

They received the trophy at the London

District Beating Retreat at Chelsea

Hospital in July.


The 16th Newtownabbey Company

hosted 26 American young people and

leaders for an evening in July. They

were in N Ireland for three weeks on an

EIL (‘Experiment in International

Living’) Summer Abroad Programme.

The company has been involved with

this organisation for a number of years

and has sent boys to Washington DC to

be part of The Presidential Classroom

Programme. The visitors were able to

meet various community groups and

the evening concluded with supper and

fellowship. During their visit they also

helped in summer schemes in the city

and at the weekends enjoyed some

sight seeing. It proved to be a very

worthwhile project.

Perranporth Camp 2006

The 8th Plymouth hosted camp for the

2nd Chard and 1st Havant & Leigh Park

companies for an action packed week

of activities in Perranporth, Cornwall.

Thirty-six boys and officers from the

three companies came together and

made new friends while taking part in

Quad Biking, Horse Riding,

professional surfing lessons plus plenty

of visits to the beach, which, of course,

meant a sandcastle competition.

Congrats to camper

Irish/American Exchange

Dougie Crowe, Lieutenant in 92nd

Belfast (and ex Captain) attended his

50th consecutive summer camp this

year. He has left his stamp on 92nd

camps in many ways having acted in

just about every role over that time

from Cook to Captain (and both at the

same time too!). This year was the

company’s 58th annual camp in

Dawlish, Devon and it is due to men

like Dougie that this important part of

the company’s work continues. He was

presented with a frame containing an

old brass tilley lamp pump, a wooden

peg and certificate outlining his

achievement.

Roland Millar (CS), Jim Sinclair (CompanyPresident), Revd K Hall (Chaplain), WalterMullan, Philip Hull (AB), David Adams(new Captain), Matthew Millar (JS),Jennifer Mullan.

Mid-Ulster Retirement

Walter Mullen, a well known figure in

the BB in Northern Ireland has retired.

He was captain of 1st Stewartstown

Company but is widely known for his

work and dedication to the BB in the

Mid-Ulster area and throughout the

Province. Walter became an officer in

1st Stewartstown Company in 1954 and

in 1997 was appointed Captain. He has

made a considerable contribution to

the Mid-Ulster Battalion, as a member

of the Battalion Executive for 30 years,

Battalion President on two separate

occasions and has organised a variety

of events and competitions. Walter has

attended 53 Battalion camps and has

been heavily involved in organising

most of them. His wife, Jennifer, has

been working side by side with him and

at the Company Display in March,

Walter and Jennifer received gifts to

mark their involvement in the Company

for 56 years.



Queen’s Badge Presentations

MV Presentations Trip to Wales

Michael Elliott, Chairman EnglandCommittee with award recipients at theBB/GB presentation in Birmingham. Members of the 3rd Wolverhampton Company leave their mark during a trip to Wales.

Eric Hudson, MV Project Manager andMichael Elliott with head of St Paul’sCatholic School in Leicester and some of theMV’s from year 13 at the presentation attheir leaving celebration.

1st Castlederg – (l to r) Jonathan Marshall(mother Anne), Adam Crockett (motherIsobel), Alan Lowry (mother Charlotte),Graham Lecky (mother Isobel) andWilliam Sproule (mother Valerie).

1st St Combs – Sarg Euan Alexander receiving QB from Mr A Brodie, Buchan Vice-President and (right) Sarg Bruce Buchan.

7th Birmingham – Ian Sherwin and LukeBates with the Brigade Secretary.

1st Largs – Steven Aitken and CraigMcLoughlin with their badges. Sincereceiving their awards, Steven has beenaccepted to work with children at CampAmerica and Craig has won a scholarshipto play golf in America.

Aberdeen & District Battalion – Annualpresentation held at BBHQ in Aberdeen.The Queensmen received their certificatesfrom Mr Willie Miller of Aberdeen FootballClub.


Commendations Commendations

WILL MORTON2nd Sutton Coldfield Company

A year and a half ago, Will was a

typical eleven year old, when he was

suddenly taken ill and suffered

severe physical disabilities. He

spent many months undergoing

hospital treatment.

Despite his many health difficulties,

Will has been a loyal and popular

member of the Company and has

shown great determination. While

steadily recovering he participates

as fully as possible in all activities.

Will Morton (centre) with his brother Leo (left) and Joe Rooke (right)

ARTHUR BEAUCHAMP AWARDPresented by Mr John Mendus MBE,

President of Birmingham Battalion, on Sunday 25 June 2006

NEAL JOBLING73rd Birmingham Company

Despite his many health difficulties,

Neal has been a loyal member of the

Company since he joined four years

ago. He participates as fully as

possible in all activities, especially

football. He is a popular company

member and has shown great

determination and commitment.

Will, Neal and Ewen’s positive attitudeis an inspiration to all who know them.They are a credit to themselves andtheir families and the Brigade is proudto have them as members.

JOE ROOKE & LEO MORTON2nd Sutton Coldfield Company

The Arthur Beauchamp Trophy is

awarded to boys / young men in the

Battalion who deserve special

recognition for effort, special

achievements, or service beyond the

call of duty.

In June 2006 the Arthur Beauchamp

Trophy was awarded to Joe Rooke and

Leo Morton of the 2nd Sutton Coldfield

Company in recognition of their

support for Will Morton. Joe is Will’s

best friend who first introduced him to

The Boys’ Brigade and is always with

him to help him on Company nights.

Leo, Will’s younger brother, is also a

member of the Company and is always

willing to help out when needed.

EWEN REID3rd Inverness Company

Ewan was presented with the

President’s Commendation by the

Brigade President recognising his

presence of mind and prompt action in

raising the alarm when discovering a

neighbour’s house on fire. If it had not

been for the speed of Ewen’s response

it is very likely that the fire would have

had tragic consequences. Ewen is a

credit to himself, his family and The

Boys’ Brigade.

PRESIDENT’S COMMENDATIONSIn June this year Mr Steve Dickinson, Brigade Secretary,

presented Brigade President’s Commendations to:

page 110 • VOLUME 114 No. 4 • October 2006page 110 • VOLUME 114 No. 4 • October 2006

With 800 on site at the peak all had a

super experience. There was a great

atmosphere around the site, with so

much to do, all the activity going on,

choices to be made and a wonderful

opportunity to reach out with the

Christian message to so many young

people.

THE FESTIVAL ENJOYED A NEW

EXPERIENCE this year, the weather

during the week before the event

was good! The meant solid ground at

Broomlee and dry condition to set up

the site, erect marquees and prepare

the campsite. Some of the campers did

miss their waterbed, and complained

the ground was hard!!

Scotland’s biggest and best Christian Youth Festival

Crossover16 – 18 June 2006

The Labyrinth proved so popular the

organisers had to go home on

Saturday and print off more materials

as attendances exceeded their

estimated 180 visitors. This does show

young folk are happy to explore their

own faith at their own pace. Perhaps

even enjoying an escape from all the

activity to peaceful contemplation.

The Rev. Keith Mack ably organised

and led worship, Tony Stephen; a youth

worker from Banchory delivered the

message, the only complaint, too loud,

from young people? The Brigade and

the Mission & Discipleship Council,

supported by Christian Aid, Impact,

Cosy, Y.F.C, ICC, The Scottish Bible

Society, The Girls’ Brigade and Wesley

Owen all worked together to deliver

Scotland’s residential Christian youth

Festival.

Programmesona plate

anchors’ programme

Anchors’ Christmas Activities Craft – Christmas StockingSupplies needed:

• Thick coloured paper, or felt

• Pencil

• Scissors

• Glue

• A holepunch

• Wool

• Felt tip pens or crayons

Draw a large stocking on thick coloured paper (or felt). Cut out two copies of this stocking Glue

the two stockings together around the edges (make sure you don’t put any glue along the top

opening). Punch holes around the edges of the stocking.

Weave wool in and out of the holes. Leave a loop of wool at one end, and tie it in a knot. Decorate

your stocking with crayons, markers, stickers or glitter.

Christmas gameRead or tell the Nativity story to the group. The boys should be sat in a circle and before the story

starts they should have been given names of people or places in the story, such as Joseph,

Nazareth etc. When they hear their name read out they must run around the circle and then sit

back down in their space.

DevotionsHave three wrapped gift boxes of different sizes. Ask the boys which of the gifts they would prefer.

It is likely that the boys will chose the largest gift. Ask the boys why they chose that particular gift.

Say that although we sometimes like large presents there are many children this Christmas who

will receive no presents.

Explain that at Christmas the real gift is Jesus. Open all of the boxes and have the name Jesus

inside

Christmas prayer The stars that shine at Christmas

Shine on throughout the year;

Jesus, born so long ago,

Still gathers with us here

We listen to his stories,

We learn to say his prayer,

We following his footsteps

And we learn to love and share

Nativity Word Search

M A R Y I M B Z J Y

J K O P C M A S E M

I N N J D H B T S A

M M Y O O X Y A U N

N Y K S N C V B S G

G R J E K K Y L N E

E R U P E U I E H R

A H F H Y F P N T B

A L G I O K C A G D

G O L D S E F B M S

Words to find:Mary

Joseph

Gold

Stable

Donkey

Manger

Kings

Inn

Myrrh

Jesus

anchors’ programme

Juniors’ Christmas ActivitiesCraft: Snowman socks• White Sports Sock

• uncooked rice (approx. 2 cups)

• string

• 2 freezer/sandwich bags

materials to make nose and mouth

• googly eyes

• red wool

• glue gun

Fill a plastic bag with 1 cup rice. (this should fill 2/3 of sock, you may need more or less depending

on the size of the sock). Tie the top of bag with twist tie. Put bag inside tube sock. Tie tightly with

string. Repeat above using 1/2 cup of rice (more or less). Tie tightly with string, just above the

bag.

Fold over the ribbed part of the sock to make the snowman’s hat. Cut 3 strands of wool and tie

around the snowman’s neck. Glue on green buttons, brown mouth and nose. Glue on eyes. Make

a tassel on the top of the hat with wool and glue.

DevotionsMany churches run appeals at Christmas time to highlight the needs of people less fortunate. It

may be possible for a member of the church to come along and inform the boys about the appeal.

One national organisation that helps is Operation Christmas Child. Shoe boxes are filled with a

variety of toys, games and toiletries and distributed to those in most need. More information can

be found at www.samaritanspurse.uk.com

Santa’s sleigh First split the boys into groups of around 4-5, then give to each group a large box big enough for

one child. Then tell the young people that this is to be their sleigh and that they must decorate it

appropriately using paint, pens, glitter, tinsel and anything else appropriate you can find. To finish,

on the front of the box make two small holes approx 15cm apart and through these holes put

some rope that can be used to pull along the sleigh. The leader could prepare the holes and rope

prior to the decoration.

Groups sit facing a pile of clothes (hat, scarf, gloves, wellington boots) at the opposite end of the

hall. When the game starts each team member takes it in turn to get in the sleigh and be pulled by

another team member to the pile of clothes, they put on a piece of the clothing get back in the

sleigh and are pulled back, the same is repeated until all members of the team have on a piece of

the clothing.

Programmesona plate

Juniors’ programme

Snowman Maze

juniors’ programme


Leviticus, especially the bits about

infectious skin diseases and boils!

Yet, something inside me said

optimistically, “If we could just score

one goal, then maybe, just maybe, we

could score another, and another”.

Remarkably, wonderfully, astonishingly,

they did just that, and managed to

hold on through extra time, and then

win on penalties! I was so excited and

jumped up so quickly all the blood

drained away and I almost fainted!

Much celebration ensued and much

more childish behaviour from all of us

Liverpool fans getting our own back on

those from other clubs.

The point is that, in life, we can

sometimes feel like we’re 3-nil down.

Everything seems to be against us and

we’re faced with utter defeat and

humiliation. Perhaps it feels like the

end of the road, or there’s no way

forward or back. Yet, the truth is that

God is in control and, whilst it may not

seem that way, we are on the winning

side. We must not give up.

Sometimes the most difficult of

circumstances can be altered with

perseverance and prayer. OK; in reality,

there are times when ‘things’ come to

an end, or a ministry of some years

draws to a close, but this is not always

a sign of defeat. I wish I could always

know when to fight on or retire

gracefully. It’s an art in leadership and

in life.

Paul wrote to the Corinthians that it is

in our weakness that the glory of God

can be seen. The treasure of Christ is

displayed in jars of clay or, as one

author puts it, ‘broken old pots!’

So, keep going, through weakness,

through difficult circumstances; don’t

give up but keep on going. There have

been times in my life when I have

desperately wanted to get out and do

something else, when my tears have

been my food day and night. When my

knees have ached from prayer. It has

felt like I’m 3-nil down, but it’s not

over…God is in control.

As a kind of postscript, something

practical. You’re not on your own.

Why not grab someone’s hand and ask

them for prayer and wise counsel.

Sometimes the best decisions can only

be made with others.

Have a great session…and keep

going…God is with you

Rev Jon Stannard

Chaplain’s corner Chaplain’s corner

Icannot hold it back, I have to share

it! It’s true; I’m a Liverpool fan.

Yes, I know I was born hundreds of

miles away in Essex and, yes, there are

better teams out there. (And a lot

worse; I mean I was brought up in

Southend!) But, back in 1976, aged 7, I

made the lifelong decision to support

Liverpool. Through the 80s, this was

fabulous, and through the 90s, and the

00’s at times; it’s been exhilarating,

but at other times I’ve wanted to hide

away. If you’re not into football, then

OK; bee keeping and taxidermy ‘can’

be as exciting, I guess, but do please

read on anyway.

In May 2005, Liverpool won the

European Cup, now called the

Champions League for the 5th time

(remember that, all you ‘new’ Chelsea

fans). For those who remember and

who weren’t complaining that

Coronation Street had, once again,

been moved to 10.30 p.m, it was a

memorable evening because, at half-

time, Liverpool were losing 3-nil!

In our house, my Son and I were

surrounded by other Liverpool fans

(two to be precise) and some fans

of…well, let’s say, other clubs, who

took great delight in seeing our forlorn

faces when, after thirty minutes, we

were being, to put it bluntly,

“smashed”. Boy, did they let us have it.

Isn’t it amazing how childish grown

men can be?! Not that it bothered me

much as I simply planned ways of

pointing at them during the next

sermon when I was preaching on

“They think it’s all over…”

Federation NewsThe Federation held its AGM in the

Belfast Battalion’s Ganaway Centre in

May, hosted by the Northern Ireland

Stedfast Association. Next year’s

meeting will be held in Dublin, 11-13

May. Details will be made available

soon for the next International

Convention in October 2008 in Belfast.

If anyone would like to receive a copy

of the quarterly Newsletter ‘FedNews’,

please let me know, preferably by

email.

News from the AssociationsThe London Stedfast Association has

reformed the LSA Brass Band, which

ceased some years ago. The Band

made its debut at the LSA Service in

the Royal Hospital Chapel, Chelsea and

afterwards at the London BB Beating

the Retreat Ceremony. Further

concerts are planned in the North West

in October and in London and Halifax.

The Band is looking to increase its

membership and more information

can be obtained from Terry Roper, co-

ordinator, on 020 8248 0409 or

(07767) 408931 or

[email protected]

If anyone would like to contribute

anything for future columns, please

contact me on (01633) 215753 or at

[email protected]. My

home address is 100 Stelvio Park Drive,

Newport, South Wales, NP20 3ES.

StedfastAssociation

News


From the President

IT BEING EXACTLY FORTY YEARS since my first acquaintance with the KGVI

Course for Officer Cadets, it was high time that I renewed that

acquaintance to see for myself what our next crop of prospective officer

material looked like, an exercise which took me first to Rathmore, then to

Felden Lodge, and finally to Carronvale. Spending time at each Centre made

me very aware of the great potential of the KGVI Courses as a marvellous

development tool, highly praised by the Cadets and the Staff members on

the respective courses, which all consisted of a judicious blend of the

informative and educational, the challenging, and the enjoyable.

These visits as Brigade President also brought home to me how indebted

we are in The Boys’ Brigade to the large number of dedicated people who

give so willingly of their time and their talents in the work of Companies,

Battalions, and Courses – often giving up much of their holiday time to

participate in the running of a Course.

The visits were for me both inspiring and encouraging as I surveyed the

high quality of young persons on the courses, confirming my strongly held

view that in The Boys’ Brigade we have an organisation that is very much “fit

for purpose” in our present days and that it can have a future as bright and

glorious as its past. I count it a great honour to be part of its ongoing story.

Robert Stanex

IFIRST LEARNT OF KGVI after seeing the

four letters on the jumper of one of

my BB officers and asking what they

stood for. I was told that the King

George VI Officer Cadet Course was

the highest and most prestigious form

of training that BB offers as it gives the

cadet , over two years, the ability to

work in all three sections of the

company.

And so when KGVI was mentioned at

the Queen’s Badge Leadership course I

decided to put my name down for

more information. A few months

passed and I had forgotten all about

KGVI when my Captain handed me an

application form which had been

forwarded to him. I filled it in straight

away and sent it off, not really

considering what I was about to

embark upon, it just seemed like the

logical next stage of my BB career.

When the pack arrived at the beginning

of the summer I was immediately

sceptical and apprehensive. The week

seemed to be too regimented and

traditional, that’s not the type of

person I am and so I decided to pull

out of KGVI. My mum persuaded me

to talk to some people in church who

had taught at KGVI and after much

discussion I decided not to pull out

but to go and see how it went.

The first day I arrived at the cadet

course just on time and was shown to

my room. I took the only available bed

and sat down. Nobody spoke. Despite

being in a room of eight guys there

was complete silence for around forty

five minutes until dinner when we

dashed downstairs to be greeted by a

slightly aggravated adjutant who

informed us that we should be in full

uniform for the evening meal which

would start in exactly one minute. I

thought “what have I let myself in for?”

By the end of the week my opinion was

the complete opposite. I loved every

minute of that week. It was sometimes

a lot to take in and it physically drained

you but that was all part of the fun.

The one memory that I will take away

KGVI

“As a Christian I loved sharing

my faith with others and

discussing different issues

which we face in today’s world.”

The King George VI training courses for

young leaders have rightly for many years

been regarded as the highlight of Brigade

training. Courses this year have been well

attended at Carronvale House, Rathmore

House and Felden Lodge.


from that week was the conversations

late at night, sometimes continuing

long into the night, once right into he

morning. As a Christian I loved sharing

my faith with others and discussing,

even arguing at times, different issues

which we face in today’s world. That

strong fellowship, finding out about

each others lives, beliefs, plans for the

future, that is the most powerful

element of KGVI

Spending a year working in my

company came naturally to me. I have

a burden for children’s work and so I

felt called into working with the Anchor

Boys. I was able to implement all of

the teaching I received at KGVI building

on ideas and plan I had seen at the

course. I went down every Tuesday

evening hoping to teach and yet from

various experiences and unexpected

circumstances, which seem to crop up

frequently when you work with under

eights, it was I who learnt the most.

Second year came without even

noticing. The three months prior had

been filled with exams and outreach

work and so preparation for KGVI got

pushed to the side and before I realised

I was on my way to Larne only half

prepared for my presentations. Like

first year I had plenty of late nights, but

this time not through conversation, I

Next Year …Does your company have any young leaders who

would accept the challenge and attend KGVI in 2007?

Details available from Regional Headquarters.

The Gathering

Will you find The Gathering? On Saturday 24th

February 2007 at Carronvale Senior Boys and young

Officers between 16 and 26 years old from throughout

Scotland will meet with a single purpose clearly in

view: to begin shaping their Brigade according to their

vision. Young people’s participation at all levels in the

movement is a central aim of the current Brigade

Development Plan; in fact, it’s its keynote. This event

– planned entirely by young Officers – will be a day of

fun and fellowship, of friendships forged and renewed,

of change. Spread word of The Gathering. Mark the

date in your diary. Tell your Senior Boys and young

Officers this simple message: it’s their movement and

it’s moving already, all they need to do is gather and

decide the direction they want it to go.

“Patience and perseverance are key in reaching out

to young people. What God has planned won’t

always be a walk in the park.”

England & Wales Years 1 &2

Northern Ireland

had to take time late at night and early

in the morning just to get my

presentations as perfect as I could

make them. When it comes to teaching

young people about God’s love they

deserve nothing less than perfect.

Some found it hard standing up in

front of their friends and officers taking

a mock class but I found it far easier,

but working with eighteen year old

leaders is a lot more subdued than

working with energetic four year olds.

Less can go wrong when teaching

youth leaders.

My time at KGVI came and went so

quickly, I met new people and learnt so

much. This course which I thought

wasn’t for me proved invaluable. I

learnt that things don’t always go right

first time round. You have to keep

trying different codes and

combinations until you succeed.

Patience and perseverance are key in

reaching out to young people. What

God has planned won’t always be a

walk in the park. I’ve learnt that you

need to go out of your comfort zone if

you want to be a strong leader and in

doing this you often get the greatest

rewards.

One statement which was emphasised at

KGVI was that the BB is not a mere

organisation. We are a movement. But

which way are we moving, forwards or

backwards? KGVI equips young leaders

with the knowledge to lead a company

but we as leaders need to be enthusiastic

about the work, always encouraging

young men and boys into a more

enriched life. If we want the BB to move

forward we need to have Christ central to

our lives and that of our company. If God

is the driving force He will advance

Christ’s kingdom among boys.

I feel that God led me to KGVI. If I’d

given up at the first hurdle I would have

missed out on what has been one of the

most crucial experiences of my life. I am

now proud to wear those four letters. I

am now ready for a life of active service

for God in the Boys’ Brigade. Where my

life will go from here I don’t know but I

trust the Father to guide me in the right

direction and be my stronghold when

times get rough.


Contact Carronvale 01324 562 008 forpaper copies.

Keep in touch

If any of your boys/young menare moving away or going off tocollege / university pleaseencourage them to fill in theform on our website so that wecan put them in touch with theirnearest Company in their newlocation.

Website for boys

BB Scotland has launched a

website BB4U aimed at boy

members rather than leaders.

Please encourage your boys to try

it out at http://scotland.boys-

brigade.org.uk

Seniors’ Challenge

Looking for activities for your

seniors – try the Scottish Seniors’

Challenge – 100 activities which

seniors choose from.

Gain certificates - 10 challenges

for a Bronze certificate, 20 for

Silver and 30 for Gold. More

details on our website.

Competition for Company Section

and Seniors – details on the BB

Scotland website or paper copies

are available from Carronvale (Thiscompetition is not restricted toScottish companies – any BBCompany can enter) They make a

domino run of the anchor and video

it on their mobile phones. Closing

date for entries 25th November

2006. The prizes for this

competition have been sponsored

by Hamilton & District Battalion. If

your battalion would like to sponsor

a competition (£60) please contact

Carronvale.

Domino Run – on a mobile phone


In Scotland this year 13 cadets from 8 Companies ( 3rd

Galston, 145th Glasgow, 1st Inverurie, 3rd Johnstone, 7th

Motherwell, 1st Muirkirk, 2nd Polmont, 1st Tulliallan) have

successfully completed their KGVI training. This

comprised of 1 week at Carronvale last summer, one year

working back in their own Company, followed by a second

week at Carronvale to assess their skills.

A further 20 cadets started out on their first week of KGVI

training. They came from 13 companies (66th Aberdeen,

1st Bothwell, 1st Buckie, 1st Culloden, 1st/2nd

Dumbarton, 3rd Dumfermline, 4th Dunfermline, 41st

Edinburgh, 3rd Galston, 1st Glasgow, 3rd Kilsyth, 1st

Muirkirk, 1st St Combs).

KGVI Officer Training Course

If you have any young men or women that you think would make suitable officers then why not consider next year’s course on 4th August – 11th August 2007.

Contact Carronvale for more details.

Does your company have a story

to share with others? Do you

have a waiting list? Have you

experienced increasing numbers

this session through good

practice? Would you do more if

you had more leaders? We

would love to hear from you and

any more examples of good

practice will be published in

future Gazettes.

VOLUME 114 No. 4 • October 2006 • page 123VOLUME 114 No. 4 • October 2006 • page 123

The company is part of Portadown

Battalion in Northern Ireland. It was

formed in 1959 by Tom Somerville who

was captain for 40 years. The present

captain is Dennis Davison. Gareth

McIlwaine, Lieutenant, tells us about

the present 1st Knocknamuckley

Company.

What do you think has been and still isthe strength of the company?The company is as strong as ever with

110 boys, 60 of which form the

Company Section, 27 boys in the Junior

Section and 23 in the Anchor Boys.

The great strength of the company

over many years is largely attributed to

its ability to hold on to its senior boys,

many into officership. Also, we do a lot

of fundraising, such as auctions, BB

week, treasure hunts and barbeques

and car washes.

How do you hold on to senior boys?The boys are encouraged to attain

Stage 111 Leadership, President’s and

Queen’s Badges and the Duke of

Edinburgh’s Award is carried out at all

levels. 27 boys participated in Bronze

and Silver expeditions in the Mourne

Mountains recently and another 14

completed the Gold venture in the

Lake District. Another 20 commenced

Bronze level. Adventure weekends are

planned throughout the session and

the company enters all Battalion,

District and national competitions with

varying success, having won the

National Volleyball competition on

three different occasions. We have had

success in the

Battalion Cross

Country

championships

and

turns in leading devotions or Bible

Class, explaining the gospel message

to the boys while sharpening their own

personal Christian witness.

A final thought to pass on to othercompanies?Shaping the lives of boys in your care

is becoming increasingly difficult in

today’s world but 1st Knocknamuckley

strives to provide for the physical,

mental and, most importantly, spiritual

needs of its boys into adulthood.

Thank you for sharing a brief glimpseof company life in the 1stKnocknamuckley, which we hope willencourage others in their companyprogrammes.

1st Knocknamuckley Company Spotlight

Shaping lives

Northern Ireland District football. The

company has also acted as a feeder

organisation for the Craigavon Aztecs

Volleyball Club with many of its past

and present members belonging to the

company.

Do you offer the boys any otheractivities in addition to the weeknightmeetings?The Junior Section highlight of the

session is Superstars competition with

events such as ‘welly-boot’ throw,

sports, basketball shots and penalty

kicks. They attend a weekend in the

Portadown Battalion run Rocky

Mountain Centre when they have their

first taste of adventurous activities.

On Saturday mornings there is Under-

18 and Under-14 football. Annual

camp remains a firm favourite which is

usually a joint BB/GB event.

Is there anything you think thatguarantees the company’s existenceand continuation?We have a small but highly motivated

staff team, who willingly use their skills

for the benefit of the boys. We create

occasions when staff and boys can

spend time together, chatting at

tuckshop time or playing darts, table

tennis etc. The staff try and

communicate with boys on all

levels as well as the weeknight

parade.

What form of Christian worshipand Bible teaching do you sharewith the boys?

All officers take


2006


SparklingSouthport

The 55th Annual North West District Display

Music in various forms was provided

by The Liverpool Battalion Band

comprised of 11th, 35th, 48th

companies, Silver Band of 1st Rishton,

and ‘Wirral Sound’ of 1st Moreton

BB/2nd Moreton GB.

Other performers were 1st Elworth

with ‘Ivan and Abdul’, 7th Southport’s

‘Footballer Dream’, 1st Ashton-in-

Makerfield’s ‘Come Forth’ – music and

mime story of Martha, Mary &

Lazarus, 24th Oldham Company &

Girls’ Association with ‘New

Commandment’, 9th Southport –

brass and keyboard skills with ‘Musical

Twosome’.

Congratulations to all performers for a

very professional show.

The performers adapted well to the new theatre style stage rather than thetraditional large open arena. The show ran smoothly thanks to the production

team, the co-operation of the theatre staff, Battalion officials, arena orderlies andthe inspiration of the Chaplains. The District was very pleased to have the Brigade

Secretary, Steve Dickinson, as guest of honour. A variety of well presented itemsby many companies in the District was much enjoyed by large audiences in two

performances. A selection of pictures illustrates some of the items:

5

1 2

Above: 8th Wigan – ‘The Road to Wigan Pier’ – a light-hearted twist on the parable of ‘TheGood Samaritan’ (1); 1st Ashton-in-Makerfield – ‘Ashton Olympics’ – a typical JS gamesevening based on the Winter Olympics (2); 1st Bare JS – ‘Staying Live’ – figure marchingwith a contemporary image (3); 3rd Trafford – ‘Is this the way?’ – traditional CompanySection drill, followed by ‘Is this the way to Amarillo?’ with modified steps to the tune of thesong (4); 3rd Trafford & 1st Congleton – United Flyers’ – gymnastic display (5);Background image: ‘Ivan and Abdul’: 1st Elworth.

4

3


Teams represented Battalions from

Birmingham, Devon, London,

Mid Staffs, Northampton and

Nottingham, in three age groups. The

usual events were competed in 100m,

200m, 400m, 800, 1500m, Hurdles, 4 x

100m relay, 4 x 400m relay, High Jump,

Long Jump, Triple Jump, Shot, Discus

and Javelin.

The Junior competition was won by

Northampton, who only failed to win

three events and miss the perfect score

by ten points! Something suggests that

may be we have potential Olympic 2012

competitors from this area! The

intermediate age group was very closely

contested with Birmingham beating

Nottingham by one point. Birmingham

also won the senior age group,

however, members from the 70th

London put on a good fight finishing

second by four points. Mr Steve

Dickinson, Brigade Secretary, joined us

for the afternoon to present the medals

and trophies.

Following the athletics meeting, most

teams trundled off to 33rd

Birmingham’s HQ, where the football

was being televised. Drinks were on

tap and at half time, we were fed with

hot dogs and cakes – can’t be bad! The

only disappointing end to the day was

the football result. Competitors had a

great afternoon together and being able

to watch the footie together was an

excellent finish to the day.

Congratulations to all who took part,

you were a credit to yourselves and

your teams. Hopefully, we will see

some of you in London in 2012.

FINAL RESULTS:

The English Athletics championships took place in Birmingham in July. There wasinitial concern from the organisers that no-one would come and compete, due to

the England football squad playing their quarter final match that afternoon!However, plans were put in place to overcome that factor. There was no way that

a football match was going to cause young men to withdraw to their lounge tellys!One very kind BB Company in Birmingham agreed to host the football after the

athletics, including putting on refreshments. So with that minor issue sorted andbribes in hand, the athletics could continue.

JUNIORS: 1st Northampton 81 points

2nd Birmingham 66 points

3rd Nottingham 55 points

INTERS: 1st Birmingham 76 points

2nd Nottingham 75 points

3rd Northampton 67 points

SENIORS: 1st 70th London 74 points

2nd Birmingham 71 points

3rd Nottingham 58 points

2007Next year’s event is already being

planned. So get the date in your

diary – Saturday 7th July 2007 at

Harvey Hadden Stadium,

Nottingham. Don’t forget if there

is only one company in your

Battalion who wants to compete,

that is fine – still come along and

represent your Battalion. Extra

competition being added for the

morning - watch this space for

further details.

English Athletics

Championships


includes much physical and outdoor

activity. There are now just under 25

ICONZ units operating. Executive has

asked for work to commence on

developing an ICONZ style curriculum

for 13–18 year olds. The annual

National Leadership Development

Course is an intensive 7 day live in

training experience for our senior guys.

Participants camp out solo for three

nights with no watch, radio or any

human contact – they just loved it. In

total 42 young men plus 12 leaders

attended.

The South East Caribbean RegionThe Region held a Camp from 18th -

27th July. They report that it was well

supported with representation from

several Isands throughout the region

including Antigua, Anguilla, Grenada,

St. Martin, St. Kitts, Trinidad and

Tobago. The programme comprised of

a number of parades, drills and drum

displays, as well as a variety of

sporting, arts and craft, hiking, first aid

and other educational, social and

spiritual activities. The region has

developed a strategic plan that will see

a focus on fundraising, increasing

membership, officer and youth

training, development of a website and

the establishment of a regional office.

This year, the BBCI will organise 2

Bible Camps and next year intend to

create a BB section at the University

and in secondary schools.

Global FellowshipChapters from the GF Story: For the full

account click on to www.globalfellowship.net

BB SingaporeMembership currently stands at 7250

spanning 117 Companies. A major

recent undertaking has been the

development of the BB Learning

Centre in Siem Reap, Cambodia. This

was dedicated on 10 June. The centre

currently sees 50 youths regularly who

attend English lessons and take part in

other activities such as music, arts and

crafts. For the second time, His

Excellency S.R. Nathan, President of

the Republic of Singapore presented13

Boys with their President’s Award

which is Singapore’s highest

achievement, on 20th July. The annual

BB CARES (Community Activities

Rallying Everyone to Serve) event was

held on 22nd and 23rd July. Each

Company brought beneficiaries from

its selected welfare organisation for a

weekend of fun and fellowship.

BB Côte d’IvoireThe BB Côte d’Ivoire was founded in

1962. Due to civil war it was forced to

cease activity in 1990. However the

ministry resumed in March 2004

through the Methodist Church. The

Executive Officer Bassi Jérémie visited

churches and discovered that 7

companies were still in operation. Over

the last 2 years new companies have

been added so that BB is now active in

5 districts; South, North, Yopougon,

Abobo in Abidjan, and Abengourou .

BB New ZealandDirector Graham Creahan reports that

over 3 years ago BBNZ positively

adopted a fresh programme designed

to stem the organisation’s rapid

decline. The result is an action packed

21st century programme for youngsters

in the 6–13 year age range. ICONZ was

commenced with a new modern style

T-Shirt and baseball cap. There are no

military terms and the curriculum

Fresh GrantsGF Executive met in Cardiff

alongside the BBUK Brigade

Council 2006 and approved the

following grants for;

Burundi• Training of 40 new Officers

Kenya:• Training of 270 officers for

the establishment of 45 new

companies in the Embu

region

• Youth governance.

Rwanda• Training of 80 new officers

• Pastoral follow-up of existing

companies

• Work with street children

• Establishment of income

earning project rearing goats

SE Caribbean• Implementation of strategic

plan.

Swaziland• Establishment of 6 new

companies

West Africa• Pastoral support for

struggling BB work especially

in Benin, Ivory Coast, Togo,

Gambia

FDF DenmarkFDF has recently enjoyed a very

successful International Camp which

attracted over 13000 participants.

THIS AUTUMN, why not invite your

boys to pack and send a shoe box

full of simple Christmas gifts to a

desperately poor boy of their own age,

somewhere in Eastern Europe?

Operation Christmas Child, the world’s

largest children’s Christmas project,

has hundreds of thousands of deprived

boys aged four to 14 on its lists this

year. Most live in Eastern Europe,

some in central Asia, and some in

Africa.

Your boys’ shoe boxes may well be not

just this year’s only present, but the

ONLY present these boys will ever

receive throughout their entire

childhood. Your boys would be

welcome to send a personal letter of

greeting to the boy to whom the box is

given

Through our wide range of free

resource aids, including DVDs, videos,

posters, prepared devotional material

on ‘sharing what we have’, and even a

puppet, you could spend an evening

introducing your Anchor Boys, Juniors,

Company Section or Seniors to the

lives of needy children of Eastern

Europe, Asia and Africa.

OCC shoe boxes go to children living

in International Displaced Persons

camps, in disused railway carriages, in

austere orphanages, in hospitals, in

overcrowded flats, in slums, and even

living beside rubbish tips and in

underground sewers.

The videos depict the stark poverty –

but also show what your boys can

achieve through sending shoe boxes.

select a number of the presents from

the list. Or you might even do a

simple fund–raising activity so that

your Company could buy the gifts

instead.

A further evening could be spent with

the boys gift-wrapping the shoe boxes,

and packing them together to send off

to your local Operation Christmas

Child warehouse.

In fact, our many warehouses around

the country are always looking for

volunteer packers, and your older boys

might want to consider an evening

spent in one, helping out.

This Christmas, we hope to send more

than a million shoe boxes to needy

children in: Armenia, Azerbaijan,

Belarus, Bosnia, Kosova, Kyrgyzstan,

Liberia, Mozambique, Romania,

Serbia, Swaziland and Ukraine.

Your Company would be joining with

over 10,000 schools, 4,000 churches,

and thousands of other individuals,

families and businesses across the UK

in sending shoe boxes.

The gift filled shoe boxes cost us so

little – and the shoe boxes bring these

children so much. The boxes bring

some joy and fun into their drab lives,

and most important, a daily reminder

to the children that somewhere in the

world there is indeed love – and that it

is directed at them.

The shoe boxes are a reminder that

God gave Jesus to all of us for

Christmas. He has not forgotten

them, and neither have we.


Samaritan’sPurse

For further details on our free

resources, our warehouses and

our National Shoe Box Sunday,

please go to:

www.samaritanspurse.uk.com

The joy and relief these gifts can bring

to a deprived child is deeply moving.

“The genuine delight on the faces of

the children when they opened their

boxes was so apparent,” recalls one

OCC distribution team member. “A

tennis ball, a finger puppet, a small

plastic toy – their value to the child is a

thousand fold the cost to the person

who has prepared the box.

“Simple gifts really do make a world of

difference to children whose families

struggle to provide them with even the

day-to-day essentials. The children

were so thrilled with their boxes that it

was humbling to see.”

Our Operation Christmas Child leaflet

gives simple and detailed instructions

about the sort of presents needed:

from toothbrushes to tennis balls to

simple toys to pencils and paper.

You might suggest that the boys go

shopping with a parent or a carer and

page 128 • VOLUME 114 No. 4 • October 2006page 128 • VOLUME 114 No. 4 • October 2006

IN LATE JULY, 24 members and staff

from the 17th Nottingham and 7th

Northampton Companies travelled

half way around the world to the West

Indies, specifically Jamaica, to

undertake a community project to help

the local people of Ocho Rios.

The story does not begin there though;

the preparation for this project had

begun about twelve months ago. A

great deal of money was required to

undertake the project, and both groups

of lads immediately started fundraising.

In total, £22,000 was required for the

trip. This was not a National project

and therefore we had to plan everything

from scratch. The total of 24 going paid

a deposit to get the ball rolling, and car

boot sales, a garden party and several

other fundraising events went a long

way towards paying for

accommodation, flights and also the

materials needed once in Jamaica. Fast

forward 9 months and the groups met

up in Gatwick airport to depart, and we

were soon in Montego Bay.(Well, ten

hours later)

On our first full day, the group went to

the Pineapple Basic School to look at

the progress made there in the last

three years since the previous trip. A

church had become the school’s

sponsor, and they were now doing

quite well. We were told our help was

needed elsewhere, in a region known

as “Exchange”.

The existing school in “Exchange” was

basically corrugated steel in

construction, with the main classroom

being open to the elements. The local

education advisor informed us the

school needed to be rebuilt, and we

decided to use our money to build

them a decent school. We hired a

couple of local builders and worked

shifts to do the manual work. The first

couple of days were taken up clearing

the new build area, but in no time our

work included transportation of

building materials, laying foundations,

with a few members even trying their

hand at bricklaying! The school was

constructed of brick foundations,

wooden walls and a corrugated steel

roof. The classroom was the size that

in the UK would house a class of about

30 pupils, however, that was going to

be split into two rooms each for 40.

Another part of the job was the

levelling of the playground, as well as

painting the new school and its toilets.

The local people were hugely

appreciative, and members of the

community made us food and even

stopped passing cars to ask for

donations towards the project. At the

official blessing ceremony of the

school, with local media present and

the mayor and local MP, we also made

a donation of resources to the school,

including books, stationery and games.

In the two weeks we were in Jamaica,

we managed to construct the two-

classroom school, which will in

September be the school for about 80

local children of preschool age. This

will make a huge difference to the local

people. Before the children would have

to travel miles using an expensive bus

service, the unfortunate ones going to

the old basic school in Exchange. This

new school means those children will

be able to get a decent start in life; what

better gift can you give?

We were all affected by the whole

experience, and have learnt a lot about

how people in other countries live, and

it has made us appreciative of what we

have in this country. We would highly

recommend a trip like this. Our two

companies have shown how we can

make a difference to disadvantaged

children from around the other side of

the world, and maybe your company

could do something similar.

Adam King, Malcolm Semenytsh (17th Nottingham) & Andrew Wade (7th Northampton)

JamaicaProject

Outside the new school


council meetings, a journey taking

them shoulder height through

crocodile invested rivers – and we

complain about travelling for a few

hours to attend Brigade Council!

The BB in Cameroon is a forward-

thinking organisation and aims to be

self sufficient by the year 2016. To date

they have started a farm in the

Northern Region for boys to work on

and generate income; one company

has a firewood project where they

bundle firewood and sell to local

residents; and another company keeps

chickens. But they have experienced

barriers as they do not have the initial

capital to employ a full time farm

labourer or to buy seeds. They need

help.

Stephen Cowden (4th Newtownabbey,N Ireland); Rob Botting (1st Woodley,Reading)

Visit toCameroon

“Those who oppress the

poor insult their Maker,

but those who help the

poor honour Him”

Proverbs 14:32 (NTL)

Our trip was full of new experiences

and adventures, with adrenaline

running high before we even left the

UK – our VISAs were only received 3

days before departure, Stephen was ill

from taking the Malaria tablets, and we

all felt like pin cushions from the

number of precautionary injections

required, including Yellow Fever.

We all found the experience to be

greatly humbling. To witness people

who have nothing compared to our

luxuries, yet appreciate everything as a

great blessing from God – what a

challenge to us! Our eyes were also

opened to the commitment and

dedication of both staff and boys in the

BB. Staff would travel for three or four

days to attend training courses or

Earlier this year we were presented

with the opportunity to travel to

West Africa on behalf of The

Boys’ Brigade UK along with the

Brigade Secretary to visit BB

companies in Cameroon.

Cameroon is a very picturesque

country with a population of around 16

million; however life is not trouble-free

for those who live there. Cameroon

has an average life expectancy of 46; a

mortality rate for under 5’s of 14.9%;

and is a country where 40% of the

population live below the national

poverty line. Amidst all these

difficulties, The Boys’ Brigade

movement remains strong with around

6000 members in just over 300

companies.

ALAN BURGESS (70) joined the 2nd

Chislehurst & District Company at Days

Lane Baptist Church, Sidcup when he was

12. During his membership of the

Company he developed a love of music and

learned to play a number of brass

instruments. He became an officer in the

company and on moving to the Maidstone

area he joined the 1st Maidstone Company,

firstly as a Lieutenant and then Captain. A

further move took him to Yateley in Surrey

where he became an officer in the 1st

Yateley Company. He was also the secretary

of the Mid Southern England Battalion and

a member of the England Regional

Committee and the Brigade Executive.

Alan’s other interests were playing in the

church worship band, organising

pilgrimages to Ypres and working as a

volunteer on the Romney, Hythe and

Dymchurch Railway. Condolences are

extended to his wife Beryl and their five

sons and their families.

REG BURNETT (84) started the 1st

Costessey Company at Costessey Baptist

Church in 1952. He served the company

well for over 53 years, 21 of which he was

Captain. He took the boys on camps

including Austria and Switzerland. He

faithfully served the church as deacon and

treasurer for many years. Everyone who

knew him has their own fond memories of a

gentle, patient and caring man who will be

greatly missed. He was able to share in the

joy of his son’s wedding just five days

before peacefully going to be with his Lord.

We give thanks to God for his life. Our

thoughts and prayers are with his wife

Wendy, son Paul, daughter in law Lisa, the

family and his friends.

JOHN B FIDLER (61) joined the 3rd

Wallasey Company at Liscard

Congregational Church on its formation.

He proceeded through the ranks, gaining

both the Queen’s Badge and The Duke of

Edinburgh’s Gold Award before succeeding

his father as Captain in 1974. John

remained Captain of the company until his

sudden death in July. John had a firm

Christian commitment and was greatly

respected as Captain, headmaster of Park

Primary School and as a local preacher. His

gifted leadership enriched the lives of

generations of young people in the

community of Wallasey. Because of John’s

leadership the company participated in

national competitions, inter-change visits

with the FDF in Denmark and had a steel

band. We extend Christian love to his wife

Sheila, sons Stephen and Paul, mother Joan

and brother David.

GORDON HARPER grew up in the 45th

Birmingham Company at Yardley Wood

Baptist Church. He was a former Captain of

51st Birmingham Company at Northfield

Baptist Church, a position he held for eight

years. Gordon opened the Anchor Boy

section in 1981 and recruited officers who

shared his vision for the BB in Northfield.

Through his leadership and example he

instilled the BB object in the boys in his

charge. He encouraged the older boys to be

responsible for the younger one and offered

wise counsel to future captains. He will be

missed by many officers and boys who

knew him affectionately as Mr H. Our

thoughts and prayers are with his wife

Margaret and his to sons, Peter and

Richard.

JOHN NUGENT LAWTON (90) joined as a

Life Boy and worked his way up through the

ranks, becoming Captain of the 27th Dublin

in 1943 and a Lieutenant in the 14th Dublin

in 1961 after the companies amalgamated.

In 1965 he and his late wife Kathleen began

work with 9th Dublin and John was still its

Captain when he died in April this year. He

served the Battalion and District well in

various offices over the years, culminating

with election as a Vice-President. He was a

faithful member of the parish of All Saints,

Grangegorman and its Guild, an altar server

and Sunday School superintendent. John

served young people well, and even in old

age related easily to them. We give thanks to

God for his life and work and thoughts and

prayers are with his son Philip and family.

SHAUN McBRIDE (15) was a member of

the 212th Glasgow Company (Bishopbriggs)

for 11 years. Starting in Anchor Boys, he

progressed through all sections with

distinction and had recently received his

President’s Badge and the company’s Best

Senior. Shaun was an enthusiastic

individual, particularly when it came to

sport. He regularly participated in National,

Battalion and District events, golf and

football being his favourites. He was always

willing to lend a hand in all activities at

summer camp. A thoughtful and caring

person, Shaun’s friendship and personality

will be greatly missed by all within the

company. Our thoughts and prayers are

with his family.

Mrs NAN NEIL became known to many

thousands of members during the last two

years as wife of our former President, when

together with John she travelled many

thousands of miles attending Brigade

events throughout the British Isles, but she

was known to countless others through her

many years of devoted service to the

Brigade, which started as a sixteen year old

helper in the 9th Coatbridge Company.

Nan was an equal partner in the BB firm

“John and Nan Neil” and she played an

important role in John’s decision to take full

time service in the Brigade in 1961. Together

they made The Boys’ Brigade a life long

commitment and it was in recognition of

this service that Nan was made an

Honorary Vice President of the Brigade.

Nan valued this recognition highly and the

letter of invitation from the Brigade

President was kept among the prized

possessions in her handbag.

During John’s Presidential year, whatever

the occasion Nan was there, always

immaculate, always putting others first and

always deeply concerned for the Boys and

the influence that the Brigade might have.

That was Nan’s vision, based on the noble

traditions of the Brigade and shared

selflessly throughout her life. Few realised,

the seriousness of Nan’s final illness, which

she fought with her distinct steadfastness.

The whole Brigade is indebted to the

sacrifices that Nan made on all our

behalves and we assure John and family of

our prayers at this time.

ALAN VOCE (78) had 40 years’ association

with the BB. He was a Life Boy in the 33rd

Manchester Company and progressed to an

NCO. He helped run the company during

the war years and also the company at the

Moravian Church in Manchester. After the

war he became an officer in the 33rd

company, until he moved to Rochdale and

the Littleborough company. Several more

moves brought him to Devon where he was

instrumental in the formation and running

of the 1st Tiverton company. He was also

training officer for the Exeter area. Alan, a

local preacher, said the BB brought him to

Christ.

H R (RON) WRIGHT (84) was appointed

Captain of 3rd Blackburn in 1944. He

served in many capacities at Group and

District level until he was appointed to the

full time Brigade staff as Field Officer for

Lancashire and Cheshire District in 1966.

In 1974 he and his wife Edna were

appointed as Wardens at the Brigade

National Training Centre, Felden Lodge with

Ron having part-time responsibility as Field

Officer for South Midland District. After a

short time Ron secured a post as Youth and

Community Officer for the London Borough

of Harrow. In retirement Ron returned to

the North West and was appointed

Honorary Vice-President of the District. We

extend our sympathy to Edna and sons

David and Phillip.

Obituaries Obituaries Obituaries Obituaries



Small ads Small ads Small ads Small ads

APPROVED CAMPSITESThe following sites have been officiallyapproved, having met Guidelines laid down bythe Brigade, and local Fire and Public HealthAuthorities.

CAMP 2007/08 NORFOLK. BB canvas campsite fully equipped for up to 50 persons nearSheringham/Cromer. Superb clifftop locationwith sea view and access to beach from campsite. Contact Chris Norman: (t) 07703 571 915(e) [email protected]

AUCHENGILLAN OUTDOOR CENTRE offers achoice of camping areas and modern indooraccommodation in an unrivalled setting in thecentral Scottish Highlands near to LochLomond. Visiting groups can undertake anextensive range of challenging and adventurousactivities (on-and off-site) and there are lots ofplaces of interest to visit close by. Free colourbrochure available from Auchengillan OutdoorCentre, Blanefield, Stirlingshire G63 9AU. Tel:01360 770256; Fax: 01360 771197; E-mail:[email protected]:www.auchengillan.com

FELDEN LODGE CAMPSITE 2007/08. BBcanvas campsite operated by 10th Enfield fullyequipped for up to 50 (smaller campswelcome) at the BBUK HQ in Hertfordshire(from June to September). Mainstoilets/showers. Minibus available. Access toon site sports facilities, local activity/leisurecentres, within easy reach of theme parks andLondon. Contact Chris Norman on (t) 07703571915 or (e) [email protected]

SWANAGE CAMPSITE 2007/08. BB canvascampsite operated by 10th Enfield (formerly byLondon District) fully equipped for up to 60(smaller camps welcome) in Swanage. Suitablefor mixed groups. Mains toilets/showers andonsite sports field, tennis/basketball courts.Contact Chris Norman on (t) 07703 571915 or(e) [email protected]

HONEYHILL CAMP; (NW Kent Battalion). 12acres Bearsted near Maidstone. Easy access tocoast, places of interest, sports facilities.Building with kitchen, gas, electricity, messtent. Contact Ian Humphreys, Tel: 07870197715. Email:[email protected]

WEST MIDLAND DISTRICT CAMPSITE -DYFFRYN Enjoy the Blue Flag beaches and thehills of the Cambrian Coast. The Boys’ BrigadeWest Midland District Camping Centre at DyffrynArdudwy Gwynedd has three sites, all withelectric lighting, calor gas cooking, and flushtoilets, showers are available. Two of the sites,for 20-25 persons, each in its own 2 acre fieldwith a 40x20 marquee and a purpose built foodpreparation unit, fully equipped, canvas campingare available in 2007, also booking for 2008.Details from Jamie Copson, 67 Riverview Close,Worcs, WR2 6DP. Tel: 01905 480955.

Camp 2007 and 2008. Popular site atFRESHWATER, ISLE OF WIGHT, availableAugust. Fully equipped, flush toilets, mainsgas/electric cooking, electric fridge, freezer andlighting. Close to safe, sandy beaches andleisure center. Minimum charge 20 campers.For free information pack and further enquiriescontact Kirk Lakin, Freshwater CampEquipment Trust, 100 West Court Road,Worthing, West Sussex, BN14 7DP. Tel: 01903205 353 Email: [email protected]: www.freshwatertrust.com

NORTH DEVON campsite. Large field, seaviews, permanent cookhouse, showers andtoilets. Fully equipped for up to 80. Contact:Geoff Hills, Warcombe Farmhouse, WarcombeLane, Morthoe, N Devon EX34 7EJ. Tel: 01271870501.

SWANAGE, DORSET – Booking now for 2007Excellent fully equipped camp site. Close tothis delightful town and its sandy beach.Comprehensive, well maintained facilities andcanvas. Gas, electricity, flush loos. Forjoint/single camps any size from 35 to 100. BBapproved. Brochure: Steve Nice, 29 Botelers,Basildon, Essex, SS16 5SD. Tel: 01268 545 907.Email: [email protected]. See the facilities onour website at www.bdcg.org.uk

BROMLEY BATTALION CAMPSITE situated atWhitecliff Bay, Isle of Wight is available for afew dates in 2007. Fully equipped with allwhite canvas. Male/Female shower blocks,Flush Toilets, Mains Gas and Electricity.Details from George Francis, ‘Kenwyn’,Beesfield Lane, Farningham, Kent DA4 OBZ(013222 862401 or 01474 705475 (e)[email protected]

VECTIS YOUTH CAMPS. Three beautifulcampsites on the Isle of Wight with permanentkitchens, showers and toilets. Each site is selfcontained and is in easy reach of safe beachesand all the attractions of the Island. All tentingand equipmnt supplied. Prices from £30 perperson per week. Ideal for organized camps ofbetween 25 and 200 people. Contact bytelephone 01344 430203. Email:[email protected]; website:www.vectisyouthcamps.org.uk

GLENGARRY CAMP 2007/8, Chideock, Dorset(near Lyme Regis). Fully equipped approvedBB site 10 minutes from beach. Brickcookhouse, running hot and cold water, gascookers and grills, chip fryer, new fridge freezeretc. White canvas for 30 – 70 including 45’ x30’ marquee. Nearby leisure centre withindoor pool 10 mins. Contact Mark 020 89031116 or email [email protected]

CAMPING ANDHOLIDAY ACTIVITIESBLACKPOOL AREA. Self-cateringaccommodation. (1) Accommodation for 44 incomfort. 4 single bedrooms for staff. 2 showerrooms, bedding and crockery provided. Fullyequipped kitchen. (2) Small Party Unit for 16persons, including 2 staff rooms. Fullyequipped as above. (3) Camp site with campkitchen/dining room, shower and toiletfacilities. The complex includes a large sportshall with climbing wall and sports field. Quietsituation near Kirkham, a market town on theFylde Coast. Within easy reach of Theme Parksand Lake District. For brochure contact: TheWarden, The Boys’ Brigade, Carr Lane, Treales,Kirkham, PR4 3SS. Tel/Fax: 01772-685000.www.TheBoysBrigadeInTheNorthWest.org.uk

BARNABAS TRUST ACTIVITY HOLIDAYCENTRES. Four beautiful locations in the southof England, the Midlands and the ScottishBorders offering self-catering accommodation(indoors and ready pitched tents). A widevariety of instructed activities at four centres(catered option also available). For brochuresand prices contact Brian Barnes, BarnabasTrust, FREEPOST TN2 186, Tonbridge, KentTN11 9BR. Tel: 01732 361361.www.barnabas.org.uk

SOUTHERN SCOTLAND. Spacious Edwardianhouse in its own grounds within the lovely townof Moffat. Rent the Well Road Centre for a self-catering conference/ activity weekend/week.Open all year. Two meeting/ activity rooms.Large kitchen and dining room. 13 comfortablebedrooms of various size. Indoor sports hall.The beautiful Moffat hills for hiking/orienteering. Suitable for groups of 20 to 65 innumber. Only your group in occupation duringyour stay. For brochure contact: Well RoadCentre, Moffat DG10 9JT. Tel: 01683 221040 ore-mail: [email protected]

GREEN MOOR CENTRE, Sheffield & DistrictBattalion’s residential centre for Training andOutdoor Pursuits. Sleeps 28 (3 dormitories, aseparate 2-staff bedroom and separate 2-staff/disabled bedroom. Toilets, showers andfully fitted kitchen. Situated in the Upper DonValley, 10 miles north of Sheffield on edge ofPeak District National Park, within easy reachof MA. Grid ref SK280994. Contact Sue Cowie,tel/fac: 01246-274021 email:[email protected]

ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES IN CORNWALL.Kayaking, Climbing, Open Canoeing, Surfing,Abseiling, Archery, the River Challenge and TheQuest! A reputation for truly adventurousactivities in spectacular settings. We’re happyto arrange anything from one-off sessions toweekly programmes. great range of campsites,bunkhouse and hostel accommodation.Contact: Simon, Shoreline Outdoor Pursuits,11a Crooklets, Bude, Cornwall EX23 8NE. Tel:01288 354039. AALA LICENCED FOR ALLADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES.

Camp 2007 ILFRACOMBE, NORTH DEVON.Dates in August 2007. Canvas camp site for upto 40 people with large marquee, cook tent,brick built toilet/shower facilities, field forsports/games. Local facilities for quad biking,horse riding. 5 minute drive to Ilfracombe.Surfing in nearby Woolacoombe. Contact KevinHarper on 0121 745 2456 ([email protected]) for an information pack.

CAMP AT CHARMOUTH. Self-catering fullyequipped canvas site available summer 2007/8.Easy access to coast, places of interest and sportsfacilities. For information contact: 020 8466 1826(ansaphone) or [email protected]

Brigade Summer camp, STOKE GABRIEL,SOUTH DEVON. Come and camp in our fullyequipped white canvas camp next to a farm sitenear Paignton. Shop/telephone/showers onfarm. Many local attractions. Please enquirevia a sae to Clive Gordon, 88 Farn Road, Oldbury,B68 8QZ, 07718761150 or Jim on 07968520488.

SPECIAL DAYS28TH OCTOBER 2006: CHANGE THE UKCSV Make a Difference Day is the UK’s biggestday of volunteering which last year saw around114,000 people take part in over 4000 activitiesacross the country. 1,996 bags of litter werecleared, 104,130 bulbs were planted, 21,148litres of fresh paint were used. Log on towww.csv.org.uk/difference: register an activity,search those that have already been set up inyour area and look for inspirational activityideas. Alternatively contact Pete Sessions onpsessions@ csv.org.uk or call 0207 643 1440.

BOYS’ BRIGADE MEMORABILIA AUCTIONat Burntwood Methodist Church, Cannock Rd,Burntwood. Saturday 21st October 2006. Viewfrom 12 noon, auction starts 2.00pm.Catalogues and info available from 1st

September on receipt of 2 x 2nd class stamps.Postal bids accepted. Items include BBScouting badge, and Pre-merger Life SavingBadge together with membership cards,uniform items, other badges UK, overseas etc.Proceeds to BB Development. K B King, 14Gomer Close, Codicote, Hitchin, Herts SG48DP. [email protected]

Small Advertisements Copy to BBHQ, Felden Lodge, Hemel Hempstead, HertsHP3 0BL. The Boys’ Brigade takes no responsibility for statements made in anyadvertisements here or elsewhere in the BB Gazette. Advertisements for Januaryissue should be received not later than 1st November. The cost is 20p per word.

Christmas Cards

A range of Christmas cards featuring The Boys’ Brigade

crest are available, sold in packs of 10 with envelopes.

NEW!

31 520 1 3 Kings Cards £4.00

31 521 1 Snow Scene Cards £4.00

31 513 1 Nativity Cards £3.50

31 515 1 Family Cards £3.50

BBSUPPLIESBB Supplies, Garcia Estate, Canterbury Road,

Worthing, BN13 1BW Telephone: 08707 442 292; Fax: 08707 203 842

Order online 24 hours a day through the Online Shop athttp://shop.boys-brigade.org.uk

Also available at local depots around the UK (See Supplies Catalogue or Website for more details).

Pocket Diary 2007

Calendary year pocket diary incorporating

new anchor logo with ‘the adventure

begins here’ strap line.

31 593 1 £3.00

Membership Card 2006-2007

Sold in packs of 10. Space is

included on the back to record

Church/Bible Class attendance

31 365 1 £1.30

Situated in the beautiful Scottish Borders, and easilyaccessible from major routes, Whithaugh Park (pronounced“Wit'ff”) is a superb well-stocked 110 acre activity centreoffering self-catering or full board options for groups ofbetween 5 and 200 young people. Accommodation is inwarm and welcoming log cabins. Whithaugh is run by longestablished Christian charity Barnabas Adventure Centres.

Free overnight stay for leaders (exploratory visit)110 acre venue amidst breathtaking sceneryExcellent self-catering accommodation for 5-200 young peopleScandinavian log cabinsOptional youth programme Full board optionIndoor heated swimming poolSports hall Optional instructed activities:on site archery, canoeing, climbing wall etcSports pitchesClose to motorway networks

Other Barnabas Adventure Centres: Carroty Wood (Kent), Frontier Centre

(Northants) and Halls Green (Kent)

Price List:Weekends from £33Long weekends from £43Mon-Fri from £47Summer weeks £92 All prices are per person and include VAT

Call us now!Whithaugh Park, FREEPOST Newcastleton Scottish Borders TD9 0BR Tel: 01387 375 394 Fax: 01387 375 661Email: [email protected] quote ref: BB Oct

Resources they’ll love to learn from

Christingle: the service for childrenthat welcomes the whole community

Christingle originated in the Moravian Church in 1747 Charity Registration No 221124

Teach children the Christian message in a simple, fun way using our new FREE Christinglematerials covering all strands of the RE curriculum.

Through Christingle you can also help us work with children, families,schools and other agencies to resolve many of the issues

that cause 100,000 under-16s in the UKto run away. By acting now we can prevent

many of them risking a life on the streets.

Get your free Create-a-Christinglepack by calling 0845 600 8585 orvisiting www.christingle.org

While online, check out ourdedicated schools informationincluding:

• activities

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• PHSE lesson plans

• and many other resources

Documents

In this issue - Boys' Brigadeleaders.boys-brigade.org.uk/gazette1006.pdf · In this issue: > Crossover > Cameroon > KGVI ... difficulties in arranging visas, insurances, ... A big