A Boys Brigade company in Rishton is preparing to celebrate its 25th anniversary.
Old and current members of 1st Rishton Boys Brigade will come together at Rishton Methodist Church for a special inspection display and awards night.
The company was formed in 1988 with 14 boys since going on to achieve the Queen’s Badge – the top award for Brigade officers.
Co-founder and current captain Geoff Smale has been with the Brigade for 25 years and said it will be an ‘historic night’.
Mr Smale, of Petre Crescent, Rishton has been with the Boys Brigade since 1955 and previously served at the 1st and 2nd Accrington Boys Brigade units.
He said: “The Rishton group is still going and we have a very healthy church at the moment.
“We would like to invite old members to come back on the night and take part in the celebrations. We have managed to get Rev David Kennard who was the Boys Brigade chaplain when the company started and our vice-president and founder officer Malcolm Thompson.
“We have our annual display and it’s where parents can come along and see what the lads have been doing during the year, such as physical activities and arts and crafts.” Mr Smale, a retired senior office administrator at Hyndburn council, said they have continued the ‘strong traditions of the Brigade’ in the area.
In 1999 three boys from the company attended the Royal Review by the Queen at Windsor Castle and members continue to represent the unit at national events.
Mr Smale, 74, said several of the group play with the Accrington and District BB Brass Band and the band is open to all new, existing and ex members.
The 1st Rishton Boys Brigade currently has 20 youngsters on the roll aged between five and 18.
The celebration and inspection night will take place on Wednesday, May 15. Mr Smale said he will hand over his captaincy on the evening to leader Robert Brankin but will remain involved with the company.
