The 1st Newport Girls’ Brigade, based at Castlehold Baptist Church in Newport since 1975, is set to celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a weekend of commemorative events later this month.
On the weekend of 15th/16th November, Organisers are inviting past members, officers, helpers and anyone connected with Girls’ Brigade on the Isle of Wight to get in touch, as preparations get underway for the milestone celebrations.
The anniversary weekend will feature displays of photographs and memorabilia at the church, alongside a special Celebration and Rededication Service. A social gathering is also planned for the afternoon of Saturday (15th November), where light refreshments will be served and former members will have the opportunity to reconnect and share memories.
The group is particularly keen to hear from any of the original founder members from 1975, as well as former leaders and officers from 1st Newport and other Girls’ Brigade companies across the Isle of Wight.
Vanessa Squibb, Joint Team Leader, has said:
“Being a founder member myself, I am very excited that we are celebrating our 50th Anniversary – where has the time gone?
“On this anniversary weekend, I’m especially looking forward to catching up with familiar faces and hearing how the Girls’ Brigade may have had an impact on their lives over the years. It’s a real privilege for Hannah and I to be leading 1st Newport Girls’ Brigade, as we look ahead to our next chapter – and the next anniversary!”
Hannah Brailsford, also Joint Team Leader, said:
“Celebrating this anniversary is really special. Although I was not involved with 1st Newport Girls’ Brigade here in the early days (I’m too young!), I joined as soon as I was old enough in 2002.
“Over the years, I’ve made incredible memories, built lasting friendships, and learned so many valuable skills. Now, as joint team leader with Vanessa, it’s a real joy to see girls’ lives continuing to be transformed through the same experiences that shaped mine.”
Anyone who has been involved with the 1st Newport Girls’ Brigade over the past 50 years is encouraged to get in touch with the group for further details on how to take part in the celebration weekend.
