The fact that, 40 years after coming into being, the company has 100 boys on the roll confirms just how successful it has been.

Each of the sections is in a healthy state numbers-wise, with the Anchor Boys and Juniors meeting on Wednesday nights (6.30pm to 7.30pm and 7.30pm to 9pm respectively) and the Company section on Friday nights.

The first of the events marking the 40th anniversary is the annual enrolement service which takes place on Sunday, October 12. The service, at Edenderry Methodist Church, is at 10.30am and it will be preceded by a parade. Old boys are invited to attend.

THen on Wednesday, October 15, the Anchor Boys and Juniors will join forces for a 40th birthday party to which parents and friends are invited.

In keeping with the object of the Boys’ Brigade - ‘the advancement of Christ’s kingdom among boys’ - an evening of dedication and prayer will be held the following night (8pm to 9pm) in the church. Again past members are invited to attend this thanksgiving at which to pray for the on-going ‘advancement of the kingdom’.

A celebration dinner will be staged on Friday, October 17 (7.30pm for 8pm start). Current members and their parents and friends are welcome to attend, as are old boys.

Company Captain, Kenneth Vennard, said, “This is a chance to renew friendships, share memories, look back and look forward.”

The Captain has a remarkable record of service which actually pre-dates the formation of the Company section, for it was in 1966 that, when he was a young NCO with 1st Portadown (Thomas Street), he was asked to assist Kenneth McClatchey with the Life Boys as they then were.

Tickets for that October 17 dinner are £15.

The week of events ends with a gospel concert on Saturday, October 18. Again the venue is the church hall, where the starting time will be 7.30pm.

Those taking part are Pride of the Birches Accordion Band, the Rev Drewe McConell, Homeward Bound, Musical Messengers, Kenny Archer, the Rev Dr David Clements and Robert Chambers.

It’s seven years since the last gospel concert staged by 7th Portadown and those who attended that event in 2001 still have memories of just how good a night that was. Admission is £5 and tickets - 300 of which have been printed - can be bought in advance. They are available from David Binks who can be contacted on 028 3833 7643.

Alternatively, take your chances at being able to pay at the door.

ends