Alloa Boys' Brigade celebrates anniversaries and retirals

They were celebrating the 140th anniversary of the formation of The Boys’ Brigade, the upcoming 70th anniversary of their own company, the move from Moncrieff UF Church to Ludgate Church, and particularly the retiral from frontline duties of both John and Eileen Forrest.

John has been part of the company since joining as a boy in 1955, serving as an officer since 1961 and then as captain since 1966 – an amazing lifelong commitment.

Eileen Forrest started out as a Brownie leader during the 60s and 70s, before marrying John and working in the background to support John in his work with The Boys’ Brigade.

She too then joined the movement and took over as Officer in Charge of the Anchor Boys and Junior Sections – a role which she has held for more than 37 years.

The 26th Stirling (Alloa) Boys' Brigade held their celebration evening at the Dunmar Hotel.

Between them, they have more than 100 years of service to the youth in Alloa, both through their professional careers as teachers and through their voluntary service in youth organisations.

At the celebration event, they were presented with an inscription that read: “Be proud of what you have done, the brilliant people you are and never underestimate the difference you made to so many lives.”

The highlight of the evening was the projection of photographs going back through the years – and no matter the age of the person now, the memories came flooding back.

Special guests were Rev Dawn Laing; Battalion officials, Rev Ian Goring, and Mr Alan Dunn; and HM Vice Lord Lieutenant John Spruce and his wife Deputy Lord Lieutenant Anne Spruce.

Recruiting for all Sections of the Company takes place at the beginning of September and further information about the Company can be found on their website at www.26bballoa.org or via email at 26bballoa@gmail.com.

The website features information and photographs of BB and Company activities over past years and ex-members/parents can also join our closed Facebook page – search for 26th Stirling (Alloa) BB Coy.

The 26th Stirling (Alloa) Boys' Brigade held their celebration evening at the Dunmar Hotel.