Thanks to Suzanne for this latest news from 1st Newport Girls’ Brigade Company. Ed
1st Newport Girls’ Brigade Company will be celebrating their 40th Anniversary in October.
This company was started, in October 1975, by Mrs Barber together with a number of members of Castlehold Baptist Church who saw the need for a girls youth organisation as part of their mission of the church.
What is Girls’ Brigade?
Girls’ Brigade is a Christian national and international organisation which has been in existence for 123 years.
Over the 40 years there have been many changes within the company which has had seven Captains, one of them being the Minister and Chaplain of Castlehold, Reverend Richard Steel.
What’s on offer?
Many dedicated leaders and girls have attended over the years, experiencing a range of activities from canoeing, archery, cooking, visits to Newport Fire and Ambulance stations, camps, activities leading to the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and lots of craft and games.
Some girls have even been locked up in the cells at the Newport County Court, on a visit of course!
Changing uniforms
Uniform has also changed over the 40 years changing from itchy dresses, caps and sashes to Blazers with braid (which I think many Mums will remember stitching their braid on) skirts, ties and hats (also with braid) and of course the white gloves.
Now the girls wear polo shirts, sweatshirts and black trousers, a much more practical uniform.
‘Seek Serve and Follow Christ’
Many things about the company have also remained the same. They continue to meet at Castlehold Baptist Church and have always fulfilled their aim of raising the volume of hope among girls and young people by providing an action-packed programme of fun and a safe friendship group for girls and young women aged 4 to 18. Their motto has also remained the same to ‘Seek Serve and Follow Christ’.
All welcome to parade service
Mrs Sandra Brailsford, Captain – 1st Newport Girls’ Brigade Company writes:
“To celebrate the 40th Anniversary this Company is holding a parade service on Sunday 25th October at Castlehold Baptist Church, Newport High Street at 10.30am, to which you are all invited.
“It would be great to see old members and leaders and to acknowledge all that you did while you were involved in the company. We are also having an Anniversary Lunch in November. This will be the opportunity to look at old photos and catch up over a fabulous lunch in beautiful surroundings.
“If you would like to attend this event, please telephone 07580 268 051 by 31st October as there is a charge for this event.”
