BB is an inspiration

Stacey and I recently joined Provost Lorraine Cameron for the opening of the new battalion HQ for Paisley and District Boys’ Brigade.

This project has taken various forms over the years and has changed from what their original vision was.

The important thing is that the people involved were able to stay focused and look at other ways of providing a headquarters fit for the 21st century.

In all honesty, it is a lesson for all community groups.

There will always be your preferred option, but, if you can’t do that, then look at ways of making the project work.

This is a perfect example of that kind of can-do mentality.

As an honorary vice president of Paisley and District Boys’ Brigade, it is always good to catch up with old friends.

It is funny that I was never actually in the BBs, but since becoming an elected member, I have worked closely with them.

They even seem to have forgiven the fact that I joined the Scouts as a youngster.

However, there is a family connection, as both of my parents were leaders in the junior section when they were younger.

So, when the local battalion decided that part of the funding package for the new HQ would be a ‘buy a brick’ campaign, I was only too happy to buy two in the name of both my mum and dad.

It was an important time in their life and, I thought, a fitting way for me to remember them.