Greenisland BB stalwart honoured for services to young people

Donald John Blair of 1st Greenisland Company was named in the New Year Honours list for services to young people in Co Antrim.

Joining the Life Boys of 1st Greenisland BB Company in 1964, he was promoted to the Company Section in 1967 working through the ranks, enjoying the many activities offered and gaining a Queen’s Badge along the way.

After discharge in 1974, he was asked to become a leader in the company and has continued in that role to this day.

Mr Blair said: “I am delighted to have been honoured with this award and I want to dedicate it to the many leaders who have influenced me and who have never been recognised for the tremendous work and Christian influence they have had on many boys through their leadership in the Boys’ Brigade.”

Reflecting on his BB career, Mr Blair lists among the highlights: “Leading the Junior Section for many years enjoying great fellowship and 28 consecutive week-long camps in Saltcoats, Scotland.

“The many competitions, sporting and otherwise, at East Antrim Battalion, Northern Ireland and UK levels including taking a five-a-side football team to Falkirk in 2016 and winning the national title and becoming UK champions.”

Further highlights, he notes, include taking part in the national Remembrance Day parade in London with five others from the company as BB representatives; attending summer camps in many parts of the UK “with the most memorable being three visits to the Channel Islands” and being invited to become only the third president of 1st Greenisland Company.

Click here to read: New Year honours for east Antrim’s business and community leaders.

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