Charlie’s dedication honoured
A Cambuslang man who has dedicated his life to the Boys’ Brigade has been honoured alongside two members of the current generation.
Charlie Black first joined the organisation in 1936 as a Life Boy, and 80 years later he is still an officer in the 217th Gilbertfield Company.
On Sunday, October 2, he was honoured by the company, alongside Andrew McKenna, 19, and Fraser Kennedy, 18, who received their Queen’s Badge certificates, and Kyle Williamson, 15, and Jordan Lisco, 16, who received their President’s Badge.
The company gathered at Flemington Hallside Church for the service, with company captain Kenneth Duncan speaking about Charlie’s contribution.
During his 80 years, Charlie has been a boy, officer, captain and honorary captain.
He took a particular interest in drumming in the bugle band and was a member of the 217th band who won the Glasgow Championship in 1951.
In 1990, when the band was revived, Charlie was still a member and helped them win the Scottish Championship in 2001.
His other great passion was camping, and his BB career has seen him travel to the likes of England, Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.
Also honouring Charlie were William Thomson, president of the Hamilton and District Battalion who appointed him honorary vice- president of the Battalion.
Charlie was presented with a memento from the company in the shape of commemorative bowl and a certificate from the battalion.
Speaking to the Reformer, Charlie said the organisation had changed greatly during his time: “When I started we were averaging 60 boys.
“Unfortunately, in this day and age there’s so much more for boys to do with regards to computers and things like that.
“But the BB still has a place as a Christian organisation.
“It’s been a great 80 years, I’ve dedicated my life to the BB and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed every part of it.”
Earlier in the service, Cathkin pupils Kyle and Jordan had received their President’s Badges from David Sneddon, chairman of the Scotland committee and vice-president of the Hamilton and District Battalion.
He also presented Andrew and Fraser, who are both students, with their Queen’s certificates. The pair had previously received their badge at a ceremony in Motherwell during the summer.
Mr Sneddon praised the boys for their commitment and dedication and encouraged them to stay with the company so they could pass on their knowledge to younger members.
Charlie was delighted to share the moment with the boys: “It brings great pride. Two years back we had another two boys also got the Queen’s badge.
“The company has been going 92 years and we are still here. Of course we have a fine minister in Neil Glover, he’s a grand fellow.”
Glenn Jamieson, officer in charge of the junior section, said: “We must congratulate the boys and Charlie for all dedication they have given to the company.”