1st Irvinestown Boys’ Brigade recently celebrated their 40th anniversary as a company with a special church service.

Mrs. McKeon, whose late Husband Chancellor Victor McKeon started Irvinestown BB 40 years ago, was delighted to be present on this special occasion along with her family, commenting that the Chancellor would be thoroughly delighted to see the company go from strength to strength.

Canon Paul Thompson was delighted to conduct the service and see so many former BB boys return for the special anniversary event, with some having travelled from Leeds and Scotland to mark the occasion.

Captain Joe Graham congratulated all the officers and boys for their never-failing support and noted that having over 80 boys achieve their Queens awards made him feel “really proud”.

Alistair Grey, one of the first Queens men travelled from Killinchy and told the congregation of his wonderful memories and how Boys Brigade shaped his life. He thanked all the former officers, commenting on the value of their wonderful work.

The afternoon service finished in the church hall with a delicious cup of tea, traybakes and cake, and those in attendance were able to view a selection of photos, DVD and slide presentations of years gone by.

It was great to see Irvinestown Boys’ Brigade go from strength to strength.