1

An informal History of

1st Blenheim

Boys’ Brigade Company

Wesley Methodist Church

1945 to 1995

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FOREWORD

It is with pleasure that I pen these few thoughts for our 50th

Jubilee Booklet.

Thankfulness is a word that comes to mind when I think about

the past 50 years of 1st Blenheim. Thankfulness to God for all

that has been achieved in the life of the Boys who have been our

members. Thankfulness to the members for their contribution to

the work of our Company.

There is much that one could write about, but I wish to say that

my time in 1st Blenheim has been one of making friends -

learning life skills - chances to travel to different parts of

New Zealand - developing leadership talents - and most

importantly becoming a follower of Jesus.

Boys’ Brigade has been a big part of my life. It has taught me a

great many things and for these I am very grateful.

It is my hope that this Jubilee Booklet will be a real treasure

for you and that it will bring back fond memories of your time

in 1st Blenheim.

Greetings to you all

Gary Longman,

Captain, 1966 to 1995

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INTRODUCTION

This informal history of 1st Blenheim Boys’ Brigade

Company is written to mark the first fifty years of the

Company and as a personal tribute by the writer to two

people - the Founder Captain, Bruce Patchett, whose

encouragement and example meant a lot to a shy young lad

who was No 113 on the roll and prior to that the example

of Vic Smart in The Life Boys. I thank the Jubilee

Committee for entrusting this labour of love to me. As I

have worked through the Company photo albums and other

records I see myself in many of the pages as one who has

been kept and grown in the Christian Faith through the

work of 1st Blenheim and the example shown by the

‘Skipper’ and ‘V for Victor’, together with the other

Officers of the day.

I have also valued the continued personal friendship and

encouragement of present Captain, Gary Longman. I will

always see 1st Blenheim as my home Company, with the work

at 3rd Blenheim and my wider BB involvement as having

grown out of this relationship. May God continue to lead

Boys to Jesus Christ in the continuing work of 1st

Blenheim Boys’ Brigade Company.

Alan D Harris,

No 113 on the roll

Company Display, Wesley Sunday School, early 1960s

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SIGNIFICANT ROLE OF THE BB IN THE CHURCH

I have a1ways said that the most demanding job for a

lay person in Wesley Church is Captain of the Boys’

or Girls’ Brigade Company. The services of both

Bruce Patchett and Gary Longman as Captains of 1st

Blenheim Company have been well and rightly

documented in this publication. I have stood back,

reflected and been thankful for their leadership.

MUM’S ENCOURAGEMENT

The 1st Blenheim Company of The Boys’ Brigade played

a significant role in shaping the lives of my two

Sons, Donald and Keith, both of whom were Queen’s

Men. It was initially Mum’s encouragement at home

and help with uniforms that set them on the Brigade

trail. Being a disciplined movement it had a healthy

effect in their decision making.

HOME ENVIRONMENT PLUS BB

The home environment and upbringing is of paramount

importance. When this is supported by a Christian

movement, such as Boys’ Brigade, it lengthens the

chances that the right choices will be made. From my

observation as a parent and official of the church,

not only Wesley Church, Blenheim, but the church

wider afield has been enriched by the lives of those

touched and encouraged by the 1st Blenheim Company.

MANY TALENTS USED

God has used the talents of so many in making the

Brigade what it is at Wesley. The co-operation of

parents, the contribution of the support committees

and the quality of leadership has impressed me. The

governing body of Wesley Church, the Parish Council,

has been truly grateful for the contribution of the

1st Blenheim Company. The Kingdom of God among Boys

has been advanced.

A H (Mick) Jellyman

Former Youth Co-ordinator

Wesley Centre

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THREE MEN WHO HAD A VISION

Bruce Patchett, Vic Smart, Dan Moir

IN THE BEGINNING

“... “... the BB has put me where I am today”, said an early

member of 1st Blenheim BB Company to the writer, “You

see, I was born on the wrong side of the track”. The

person was attending the 50th Jubilee celebrations,

together with some 80 other former members. If 1st

Blenheim Company had been formed for that person alone,

Dan Moir and the other folk who met at Vic & Alyeen

Smart’s home in early 1945 would have been well pleased.

SOME SOW .. SOME WATER ..

GOD MAKES THE PLANT GROW

However this example is only one, of some 600 Boys, who

have passed through the ranks of this BB Company during

the past fifty years. Many others would acknowledge and

did acknowledge at the recent reunion the impact that 1st

Blenheim, the BB Objective and the life and witness of

Officers, had played in their lives. Some were involved

for many years, other for shorter periods, some continued

on as Officers in this or other Companie6. Some left

without any evidence of anything positive coming out of

their involvement with the BB, but we do not always know

what God has done, or is doing in each Boy’s heart.

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COMPANY FIRST MET ON MONDAY

FEBRUARY 12, 1945

On Monday, February 12, 1945 15 Boys met in the Wesley

Methodist Sunday School in High Street and so began what

was later to be known as 1st Blenheim Boys’ Brigade

Company. The Wesley Local Youth Council confirmed the

action and agreed that the Company should be open to Boys

of all denominations. It was formally enrolled at a

service on Sunday July 3, 1945 with 18 Boys present — all

in uniform. They were G Voyce, L Holdaway, A Gledhill, I

Manson, B Gledhill, I Holdaway, G Manson, G Gascoigne, P

Jacques, E Webby, A Patchett, G Williams, A Bright, I

Freeman, D McIntyre, L Fear, A McArthur and Rex Bright.

The first Officers appointed by the Church were — Bruce

Patchett, Captain; Rev H A Sharp, Chaplain; A S Allan and

R W Moseley, Lieutenants.

(It was interesting to note that on original enrolment

forms the Company was referred to as the 1st Marlborough

Company.)

‘THE PIONEERS’ - 1945

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WHERE WE HAVE LIVED

The first home for the Company was the Wesley Methodist

Sunday School. Later a building from the World War Two

air force Delta camp (in the Wairau Valley, above

Woodbourne) was purchased and moved to Wesley Church

grounds on the Henry Street — Charles Street corner.(Top

photograph).This became known as the Youth Hall and

became the home of the BB and GLB Companies and their

Junior Sections. At a later stage an extension was added

— this was used for offices and storeroom.

In the early 1980s Wesley Methodist Church was re—sited

onto land on the corner of Henry Street and John Street.

On the land was a former rugby gymnasium and this was

refurbished to become the Wesley Gym (pictured above) and

the new home of 1st Blenheim and the other youth work of

the church. For Company Displays and other special

occasions the multi—purpose Wesley Centre is used.

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“THE SKIPPER” - BRUCE PATCHETT

1917 — 1980

‘Mr Bruce Patchett, the father-figure of The Boys’

Brigade in Marlborough, died last night after an illness.

He was 63.’ So reported The Marlborough Express of

November 19, 1980 and the words ‘the father—figure of The

Boys’ Brigade in Marlborough’ is an accurate description

of what the “Skipper” meant to the Boys of 1st Blenheim

from 1945 to 1965.

Blenheim in the mid—1940s was a different Blenheim to the

one of the mid—1990s and Bruce Patchett, a committed

Christian, proved to be the ideal person to lead the

fledgling BB Company and in the ensuing years 1st

Blenheim became one of New Zealand’s leading Companies in

every respect. With the support of his wife, Linda, who

was a second ‘Mum’ to the Boys, Bruce showed by word and

example what ‘true Christian Manliness’ really was,

during his 21 years of leadership. This was evident not

just in the BB, but in all the other facets of his life

also — church, community and business.

NATIONAL INVOLVEMENT

His BB involvement wasn’t just within 1st Blenheim, He

took his part in the setting up of the Nelson—Marlborough

Battalion in 1947 and assisted in its affairs, being

appointed to represent the area on the New Zealand

Executive the same year. In 1951 he became a Dominion

vice—president, a position he held for 15 years into the

mid—1960s. Again in 1979 he took his part in national

affairs and at the time of his death he was a New Zealand

vice—president.

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RESPECTED INTERNATIONALLY

Bruce was also respected on the International Boys’

Brigade scene with friends in many parts of the world.

The international involvement began with his leading of

the 109—strong contingent to the International Camp in

the UK in 1954 (reported on under ‘Camps’) and was a

continuing interest from thereon.

At the recent Golden Jubilee celebrations we were

conscious that the spirit of “the Skipper” was among us

in the lives of the Boys who had been ‘through the ranks’

under his captaincy.

BRUCE PATCHETT TRUST ESTABLISHED

Following the death of Founder Captain, Bruce Patchett, a

memorial trust was set up in his name. The aim of the

trust is to financially assist NCO’s and Officers of the

Nelson—Marlborough Battalion to attend national training

courses. Bruce was an enthusiast for youth leadership

training and encouraged Brigade members to take every

opportunity for training.

The Trust is always open to accepting donations to top up

the capital. In fact any funds left over from the 50th

Jubilee will be given to the Trust.

The Company Captain can give prospective donors

information regarding the Trust.

. . .with some of the Boys

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GARY LONGMAN - 2ND CAPTAIN

Following Bruce Patchett as Captain wasn’t an easy act.

However Gary has done this well and after 30 years of

service he will retire at the end of the Jubilee Year

1995. Gary was an early member of the Company, joining as

an 11 year old (No 63 on the role) he has spent most

Monday nights since at Boys’ Brigade — some 47 years! In

an interview, by Cynthia Brooks, marking his 25 years as

Captain, (The Marlborough Express December 27, 1991) he

makes the following observations —

“I firmly believe I have been called by God into this

ministry and always appreciated what Boys’ Brigade did

for me as a little lad. Then as I got older it had an

influence on me to become a Christian.”

“We are not setting out to create superhuman people, but

Boys with good control and moral standing. We like to

think we are planting seeds for someone else to reap

later on, especially as their Christian life goes.”

“The reason their mothers send them (Boys from homes

without a male figure head) to Brigade is to give them

the male figure that is not in the home ... that takes a

tremendous amount of trust and the onus is on us as

leaders to be aware of the examples and standards we set

for the Boys.”

WIDER INVOLVEMENT

Like his predecessor, Gary played a full part in the

affairs of the Battalion On the national scene, he

assisted with the national leadership courses held in the

area and was catering officer at Camp Marlborough.

He encouraged his NCO’s and Officers to take every

opportunity for training, both locally and regionally, as

well on the national scene.

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“THIS IS YOUR (BB) LIFE ...“

In 1991 Gary got 1st Blenheim’s 47th annual display under

way and after devotions and inspection, the Chairman Rev

Norman West, seemed to get it all wrong when he asked

Gary to sit down. It may have seemed all wrong to Gary,

but to others it was all going to plan ... and so began

“This is your (BB) Life Gary Longman”.

The idea had been hatched by David McKelvey Senior NCO,

to mark Gary’s 25 years as Captain. He, with others,

brought the programme together with a number of speakers

highlighting various aspects of Gary’s RB life - Rex

Bright, Brian Patchett (Lower Hutt), David Mardon

(Christchurch), David James and Norman West. Alan Harris,

tied the programme together with items from letters of

greetings and anecdotes from days past. What Boys of

today had heard of Blenheim’s Clarrie Rayner’s Milkbar

and Gary’s well-known Austin A35?

The “This is your Life .. .“ book and a BB plaque

suitably inscribed, was presented by David McKelvey. The

programme then continued as Gary had arranged, albeit

some 35 minutes late!

Others at this function included Graeme & Pat Todd and

Ross Hunter from Nelson. Gary was certainly taken by

surprise, but was definitely moved and very appreciative

of the thoughts and efforts of all concerned.

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OUR BAND

In 1946 the band was formed and for many years was a

prominent part of the Company. “Band practise, Thursday

night!” Taking part in Anzac Day parades and other civic

services, the annual enrolment services, Founder’s Day

parades in Blenheim, Nelson, Motueka and other places,

gave the Band (and the Company) a high profile.

Early instructors included Arch Kitching and Frank White.

Rex Bright recalls, that from memory, Arch had just one

old bugle for all to try and get a note out of.

Originally they met in the south end corner room of the

old Wesley hall. Battalion, Company and other camps saw

at least a bugle taken for bugle duties.

An indication of how the band was seen by the community

is reflected in this letter to The Express on April 28,

1961.

“1 wish to congratulate the Boys’ Brigade Trumpet Band on

their excellent playing and marching at the Anzac Day

parade. This small combination does a good job and has

many admirers. On this occasion their display was

outstanding.” Ex-Trumpeter.

BAND HIGHLIGHT

A real highlight for the Band was in May 1963 when the

band was selected to take part in the celebrations to

mark the end of the 80th Anniversary Relay Run in

Wellington. They played at Government House and took part

in the Sunday Street parade.

In 1964 the band completed a re-equipping programme with

ten valve bugles and a new bass drum. New side drums and

a new mace had been purchased when the Company started to

re-equip several years earlier. In the early 1970s the

band went into a decline and eventually into recess.

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Band members 1946

With Sir Bernard Fergusson, Governor General

Government House Wellington, May 1963

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DRILL THRILLS!

Drill has always been a part of BB and 1st Blenheim has

had a proud tradition of drill and winning the Battalion

Drill Competition from early days.

In 1958 as part of the 75th Anniversary celebrations a

National Drill Competition was held in Wellington and 1st

represented the Nelson Battalion at the event, held in

the Winter Show building. Nervous was hardly the word, as

the Boys waited for their turn. There were two parts to

the competition — inspection and the squad drill. At last

it was all over and the results awaited — when they came

it was first for uniform and second overall, 185 1/3rd

points! The winners were Canterbury Battalion (1st

Christchurch), 195 5/6th points.

It was some 29 years later before the opportunity for a

‘return match’ in Canterbury — this time it was 1st

Blenheim first and the squad arrived home with the sweet

feeling of victory and revenge for 1958. In this Jubilee

year the Company is to make another foray into Canterbury

for the 1995 Drill Competitions.

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KING’S and QUEEN’S AWARDS

During the fifty years 108 members have achieved the

highest award in the Movement — the King’s/Queen’s Award.

Until 1956 the Award was presented at the Founder’s

Weekend Celebrations in October, but from 1957 they were

presented at the annual inspection & display held in

December.

In 1965 Boys were first invited to attend a function at

Government House, Wellington where they were presented

with their Queen’s Award Certificate from the hands of

the Governor General, Sir Bernard Fergusson. Attending

this first function were Alistair Boyce and Trevor Hayes.

Following Governor Generals have continued the ceremony

and in recent years each Boy has been able to take two

guests with him. Other activities including a dinner and

church parade are now part of what is referred to as ‘the

Queen’s Men Weekend’ and many 1st Blenheim Queen’s Men

and their families have attended the functions.

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KING’S MEN

1948 — Alan Bright, Ivan Manson

1949 — Rex Bright, Russell James, Tom Jellyman

1951 — George Dwyer, William Ashley

QUEEN’S MEN

1952 — lain McFarlane, Hugh Jones

1953 — Ron Barr, Gary Longman, Peter McNabb, Graham

Hamilton, Dexter Taylor

1956 — Donald Gardiner, Brian McNabb, Donald Parker

1957 — Geoff Sandford

1958 — David Poswillo, Lennox Willett, Brian Patchett,

Paul Crump, Robert Allan, Alan Harris

1960 — Barry Harkness,

1961 — David Russell, Brian Jones, Roger Thwaites, John

Naysmith, Graeme Patchett, Keith Carpenter, Peter

Willett, Barry Holdaway,

1963 — Kerry Brown, Donald Jellyman, Kevin Hayes

1964 — Trevor Hayes, Alistair Boyce

1965 — Allan Boyce, Bernard Thompson, Alan Naysmith

1966 — Allan Jones, John Ballinger

1967 — Richard Velvin

1968 — Graham Wadsworth, Eric Russell, John Ward, Ralph

Allen, Kerry Sowman

1970 — Keith Jellyman, Graham Holdaway

1971 — John Trewavas

1972 — Peter Blacklaw, David Bush

1973 — Michael Campbell

1974 — Paul Trewavas

1975 — Philip Vile

1977 — Rodney Parkes, David Sewell

1978 — Grant Stubbs, John Wilson

1979 — Wayne Parker, Glen Vile, Ian Wilson, Gregory

Manson

1980 — Andrew Brown, Robert Cromarty, Malcolm Taylor,

Lloyd Carpenter

1981 — Darryl Carpenter, David James, Philip Vercoe

1982 — Raymond Brown, Jonathan Parkes, Andrew Pickering,

Owen Lewer, Richard Simpson

1983 — Gregory Vercoe, Charles Parker, David Field

1984 — Andrew Dowling, Wayne Taylor, Philip James, Murray

Richards

1985 — Stephen Lewer, Mark Longman, Brent McNamara

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1987 — Stuart Freeth

1988 — Kent Longman, Andrew Cromarty, Roger Van Raalte,

Michael Brown, Stephen Parker, Kelvin Vercoe,

Conway Taylor, Tim Bown

1989 — David McKelvey

1990 — David Ireland, Mark Freeth, Anton James, Ross

Frater

1991 — Andrew Sherriff, Andrew Jamieson

1993 — Geoffrey Hayes

1994 — Darren Jones, Mark Poswillo

1970 Queen’s Men

1989 Queen’s Man

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TREVOR ON ICE

Trevor Hayes, (Queen’s Man 1964)

In 1965 applications were called for Brigade members to

go to the Antarctic as part of a DSIR Youth scheme. It

was the second time that the BB had been invited to take

part in this and two places were available. Trevor Hayes,

(Queen’s Man 1964) from 1st Blenheim was successful, as

was Paul Russell of 15th Wellington (a Company with which

1st had an association at the time). The two BB Queen’s

Men, with two Scouts travelled by boat to and from Scott

Base and spent three weeks in Antarctica.

Ardmore Camp 1957-58

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CAMPS

Right from the earliest days camping has been a feature

of The Boys’ Brigade — indeed the BB introduced camping

as a recreational activity in 1886, long before it was

the leisure activity it is today. So, it was quite

natural for 1st Blenheim to quickly be involved in the

Nelson Battalion 1945/46 Summer Camp at Wairoa Gorge,

Brightwater. Fourteen Boys from Blenheim joined others

from Nelson and Hokitika (2nd Westland) for the 8—day

camp.

An Express newspaper clipping reports — ‘The camp was

favoured with exceptionally good weather and a full

programme of Brigade activities was carried out.’ It also

noted that a day was spent in Nelson for the benefit of

those who had never been in the city before and that an

very impressive parade marched through the streets.

Summer camp 1946/47 was held in the Richmond Showgrounds

and BB members from Wellington were present. In 1949/50

Boys crossed the Straits to attend the Wellington

Battalion’s Camp at Wainuiomata. Photos show the Prime

Minister of the day Peter Fraser and fellow politician

Walter Nash being piped into the Camp.

BB NEW ZEALAND SILVER JUBILEE CAMP WAIPARA, NORTH

CANTERBURY December—January 1951/52

1st Blenheim contingent

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BATTALION CAMP SITE The Battalion had a camp site in the Teal Valley, (turn

off at the foot of the Nelson side of the Whangamoa on

the highway to Nelson), so camps were held here for a

period of time in the late 1940s, early 1950s. This site

was later sold. In 1955/56 a camp was held at Dovedale,

near Motueka. After this Battalion Summer Camps were held

on a less regular basis and none in recent years.

(It is interesting to note that at early camps full

uniform was taken and worn on special occasions.)

The Company has attended Wellington Battalion summer

camps and more recently members have had the opportunity

to attend the regular summer camps run by the Canterbury

West Coast Battalion at Waipara

DEEP CREEK BB/GB CAMPSITE In 1971 Marlborough Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades were able

to take over the disused Deep Creek school and school

house and develop it into a campsite. It had been vacant

for many years, but with working bees it was ready for

opening on October 16 of the same year. Since then it has

been further developed and is used by schools and other

groups as well as the Brigades.

OTHER CAMPS Company camps, of varying lengths, have also been held

throughout the years — some under canvas, others using

houses, woolsheds and the like. Pelorus Bridge, Lake

Rotoiti and places in the Marlborough Sounds have been

popular venues. Some camps have been for pure fun, others

for specific purposes such as training and planning.

OVERSEAS CAMPS In August 1954 the first Brigade International Camp was

held on the playing fields of Eton College, England. It

was to mark the centennial of the birth of Sir William

Smith, Founder of the BB. Some 2000 Boys and Officers in

400 tents from many parts of the world attended,

including three from 1st Blenheim — Graham Hamilton, Alan

Bright and Don Gardiner, with Bruce Patchett as O C of

the large 109 strong New Zealand/Cook Island contingent

who travelled by sea to attend.

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PAN AUSTRALIAN BB CAMPS A number of 1st Blenheim members have crossed the Tasman

to attend Pan Australian BB Camps. Trans Tasman BB links

were strengthened when Brian Patchett attending such a

camp in 1962/63, decided that a certain Lady Officer,

called Rose, would make an ideal wife.

CAMP PHOTOS (clock wise)

Te Wairoa - 1994;

A Kaireperepe Company Camp; Eton 1954;

Dovedale, Battalion Camp 1955/56

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NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL CAMPS

The Company has had representatives at all the National

Camps held in recent years

1957/58 — The 75th Anniversary Camp at Ardmore, Auckland.

1973/74 — The 90th Anniversary Camp at Tomoana, Hastings.

1978/79 — Camp Marlborough. (See separate story)

1982/83 — Camp BB 100 Centennial Camp, Mystery Creek,

Hamilton.

1987/88 — Canterbury Challenge at Waipara, Canterbury

Battalion’s Campsite in North Canterbury.

1994 — Camp Te Wairoa, Rotorua.

BB NEW ZEALAND SILVER JUBILEE CAMP

1951 was the Silver Jubilee of Boys’ Brigade New Zealand

and a Jubilee Camp was held at the Canterbury Battalion’s

campsite at Waipara, North Canterbury. [Cost for Boys

under 15, 53 shillings 5 pence; Boys over 15, 66

shillings 9 pence and Officers, 76 shillings 5 pence.]

Disaster struck at the 11th hour with a nationwide

railway strike and suddenly the task of getting some 1650

folk to camp became a major difficulty and the holding of

the camp became in doubt. However, as reported in The BB

News souvenir camp issue, at 12.37 on Christmas Day it

was announced on the radio that the Boys’ Brigade Silver

Jubilee Camp would be held, but that Boys would have to

make their own travel arrangements. Well, BB ingenuity

prevailed and some 850 folk from the North Island finally

arrived at Waipara.

1ST BLENHEIM TO THE RESCUE

The same BB News issue noted ‘Officers of 1st Blenheim

Company had set to with a will and found bus

accommodation and some trucks which would take 240 from

Picton.’ (North Islanders arriving by the daylight ferry

Tamahine). They arrived at camp at ten minutes to

midnight! So including the South Islanders, some 1350

made it to camp — only 300 less than registered.

CAMP MARLBOROUGH 1978/79

To have a national camp on our own back door, so to speak

was an interesting experience and the exciting thing was

that the local BB families and supporters got right

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behind it. Bruce Patchett was Camp Director with Gary

Longman, as catering officer and Chairman of the local

supporters committee. Among the things the local

committee had to do was find sufficient chairs and tables

to sit 400 for meals; arrange a team of helpers to do

dishes and find trail bikes, canoes and the like. The

programme of this camp was the start of a new era into BB

Camping, a host of different activities being arranged

and campers being able to choose some activities.

For local BB members attending, a highlight was the Camp

parade from A & P Park through town to the Blenheim

School, with drums drumming and bands playing. After

which the 1200 plus campers were let loose in town. Camp

Marlborough was a good witness to the people of

Marlborough as to what the BB is all about.

THE LIFE BOYS 1952

Taken in the old Wesley Sunday School hall — the mural is

a Solomon Islands scene and effective reminder of the

mission outreach of both the Methodist Church and the BB

in the South Pacific.

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ENTER THE JUNIOR SECTIONS

THE LIFE BOY TEAM In 1946 the Life Boy Team was started under the

leadership of Russell Moseley. In 1951 Vic Smart

succeeded him. The Life Boys were referred to as the

Junior Reserve of The Boys’ Brigade and there was very

little combined activity between the two groups.

NAME CHANGE However during the 1960s there grew a closer involvement

until in 1967 they integrated into the one movement The

Boys’ Brigade. The two units were to be known as “The

Company’, with a Team Section and a Company Section.

RECRUITING AREA FOR COMPANY In 1st Blenheim there was always a good working

relationship between the two groups — a recruiting area

for the Company with the younger Boys aspiring to the day

when they, too, would be in the Company, wearing the

uniform and having lots of badges on their ‘sleeves as

well!

BALANCED PROGRAMME The Life Boy programme was clearly based on a four—square

programme — “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature and in

favour with God and Man”, Luke 2 verse 52. Educational,

Physical, Spiritual, Social. There were games, relays,

stories and lots more ...

A more in—depth programme to meet the changing needs of

Boys, with an awards programme (The Achievement Scheme)

now operates in the Team Section. A fifth aspect — that

of community added, but the basic ‘all—round’ programme

still applies.

In the 1960s Bruce & Linda Patchett were hosts at more

than one of the popular Life Boy Leaders national

training weekends held during that period.

COMMITTED LEADERSHIP

Vic Smart was succeeded by Graham Dowling as Leader in

Charge and through the years the Team has been well

served by many committed leaders — both men and women.

Present Lieutenant—in—Charge is Lindsey Norriss.

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1st Blenheim Team Section

taking part in the 1970 Company Display

Inspecting Officer Ian Brooks MP

2ND BLENHEIM

In the 1960s when the Methodist Church commenced an

outreach in the lower Hutcheson Street area (Mayfield), a

Team was started, feeding Boys into 1st Blenheim Company

upon reaching the age limit. Alison Smith was the Leader

in Charge. Later, for a period of time, David Garnham and

Alan Harris, from 3rd Blenheim provided the leadership.

The Mussong Family were strong supporters of all the

activities at Mayfield. When the Church ceased using the

hall, the Team and Girls’ Brigade unit were closed.

AND NOW THE ANCHOR BOYS For many years there were BB folk who saw a need for a

younger unit, to meet the growing needs of 6 to 8 year

old Boys — in fact in many Teams there were Boys of this

age group being ‘quietly catered for’. So, in the 1980s

the Anchor Boys emerged in New Zealand and in 1988 the

first Anchor Boys met as part of 1st Blenheim Company.

They now take their part as enthusiastic members, with a

simple and varied programme meeting their needs, again

with Leaders concerned with the requirements of this age—

group. The present Leader in Charge is Kim Parker.

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ROYAL VISITS The Company has been on parade for all visits of

Queen Elizabeth 2nd to Blenheim. In January 1954 the

Company paraded in uniform and lined High Street —

Graham Hamilton was the BB representative in the youth

guard of honour. The next visit in January 1963 the Band

gave a demonstration in front of the Royal Visitors.

In March 1977 on a very wet day, there was a Royal

Reception at Woodbourne, the bad weather deterred many

people and groups, but the Marlborough Express reported

“I understand that among the largest groups represented

were the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades, all in uniform”.

‘As a result of 1st Blenheim . . .

1st Wairau Valley Company was formed in 1961 by Old Boy

Rex Bright (No 18) on the roll and was Founder Captain of

the Company. He also served a period of time on the BB

New Zealand National Executive.

3rd Blenheim Life Boy Team (3rd Blenheim) was formed in

1960 by Old Boy Alan Harris. [Later to become 3rd

Blenheim (St Ninian’s) Company.]

As well as serving two terms on the National Executive,

Alan has edited the national magazine, BB News, for 14

years and is involved in BB work within the Pacific and

internationally on the World Conference Committee.

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Enjoying the feast at the 25th Birthday celebrations

+ New Company Colours were presented by Old Boys at the 21st

celebrations

+ The Baptismal Font was the gift to Wesley Church on the

occasion of the 21st Birthday

+ To mark 50 years of association with the Methodist Church, a

pulpit chair was presented to the congregation at the Jubilee

service. (Tony Maffey, an Old Boy, made the chair on behalf of

his employers.)

Hundreds of pounds and dollars have passed through this BB

Missions Box, as the Company has supported the work of the BB in

the Pacific Regional Fellowship. (Some given willingly - some

coerced as loose change after canteen time!)

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COMING OF AGE In June, 1965 the Company celebrated its ‘coming of age’ - 21

years of service to Boys. Some 90 Old Boys, present members and

invited guests attended a banquet in Wesley Sunday School hail.

Among the guests were Dan Moir and his wife — it was at his

suggestion that the Church started the Company. New Queen’s and

Company Colours were presented to the Company by Lester

Holdaway, on behalf of the Old Boys. These were dedicated at the

Sunday service, the 21st annual enrolment service of 1st

Blenheim, by the Chaplain, the Rev C B Oldfield.

25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATED In July 1969 the Silver Jubilee of the Company was celebrated

with a tea for Company members, followed by the 25th Anniversary

enrolment service. Guest Speaker at the dinner was the now

retired “Skipper”, Bruce Patchett. He said that to have reached

the 25 year milestone was a great achievement for any

organisation, an indication of the worthiness of the

organisation and its place in the community. The Company had

often been described by Brigade officials as being one of the

finest in the country. “Only you fellows can keep it that

way; may this Company continue to advance,” he told the

Boys. At the service, conducted by the Chaplain, the Rev R H

Allen, Boys were presented with their annual membership card, by

circuit steward, A H (Mick) Jellyman. I .

21st Dinner

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A FEW OF THE FACES AT THE

GOLDEN JUBILEE

Alan Bright (18), Jim Mears (76) Ernie Webby (10)

Alistair McArthur (17)

Stuart Freeth (446) Michael Brown (439)

Brent McNamara (465)

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Linda Patchett and Jocelyn Longman cut the Jubilee Cake.

31

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS - MAY 10 TO 12, 1995

More than 80 Old Boys, including a number of originals,

such as Lester Holdaway who was No 2 on the roll (and

chairperson of the Jubilee Committee) and Russell Moseley

an original Officer, attended the weekend of celebrations

to mark the jubilee. Les Bouterey, Vice—President BBNZ,

represented the national movement.

SOCIAL EVENING Friday night saw a large number of old Boys, partners and

friends gather for a social evening. A theme seemed to be

“Is that so and so ...haven’t seen him for years.”

Throughout the evening and indeed the whole weekend, a

display of Company photographs, scrap albums and other

memorabilia created much interest.

BUS AND TRAIN OUTING A Saturday afternoon bus trip enabled visitors see the

changes in Blenheim and the Wairau Plain since they were

involved in 1st Blenheim. Afternoon tea was at the

Vintage Farm Machinery Museum — part of the Brayshaw Park

complex and folk returned to the Wesley Centre (almost)

by Riverside Railway. A beautiful sunny autumn day

enhanced the outing.

JUBILEE DINNER Over 130 Old Boys, current members, partners and friends

attended the Jubilee dinner. Master of Ceremonies was

Lester Holdaway and speakers representing the various

decades were:

1945 — 50 Alistair McArthur; 1960s John Orchard; 197Os

David James; 1980s Brent McNamara.

During the evening various greetings that had been

received were read out by Paul Crump. Alan Bright

presented Linda Patchett with flowers. A Jubilee cake,

made by Wendy Newman and iced by Joy Bush, was cut by

Linda Patchett and Jocelyn Longman. A trophy for Young

Leaders was presented to the Company by the 1995 serving

Officers.

SERVICE OF THANKSGIVING Guest preacher for the Sunday morning service was Old

Boy, the Rev David Bush, from the Rangiora Methodist

Church. His sermon was “Looking Back to go Forward”.

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OLD BOYS PROVIDE MUSIC AT SERVICE Guest Organist was David Garnham. An Old Boys choir (with

some ring—ins) was conducted by David Poswillo, with

Barrie Parker, Organist. Accompanying both organists on

the piano, was Lennox Willett. Although not an Old Boy,

Barrie is Father of Queen’s Man (1988), Stephen Parker.

GREETINGS Greetings were received from Old Boys and Friends in many

parts of New Zealand and overseas including Australia,

Canada, and Seoul (South Korea).

OLD BOYS INVOLVED IN DIFFERENT ROLES A number of Old Boys were involved in different roles

during the weekend. They included Barry Holdaway, local

historian, the commentator on the bus trip; train driver

was John Orchard and Lester Holdaway was conductor; Roger

Thwaites was official photographer; Kent Longman, with

sister Sharolyn, entertained with a musical item at the

dinner.

JUBILEE COMMITIEE

Front row, David Brown, Linda Patchett, Lester Holdaway,

Chairperson; Gary Longman, Rex Bright, Back row: Kevin

Hayes, Paul Crump and Alan Harris, Secretary.

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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS We acknowledge —

The use of photographs and information taken from The

Marlborough Express files in compiling this history. The

use of photographs - many sources unknown.

The use of information taken from the Company photo

albums/scrap books and records.

The support of the many folk from whom information has

been sought and willingly given.

Where possible all information, names and dates have been

checked, we apologise for any incorrect details.

DATES OF SIGNIFICANCE 1945 Meeting at Vic Smart’s home agrees to form Boys’

Brigade Company at Wesley Methodist Church

Feb 14 15 Boys meet in Wesley Methodist Sunday

School

July 8 Formal enrolment of 1st Blenheim Company

Oct 14 Company takes part in Founder’s Day

celebrations in Nelson

1946 Battalion Summer Camp, Wairoa Gorge, Wakefield

Life Boy Team formed

Band formed

1954 August Founder’s Centennial Camp, Eton, England

1958 Aug 30 1st Blenheim, 2nd in National Drill

Competitions,

1961 St Ninian’s Platoon formed (Now 3rd Blenheim)

1st Wairau Valley Company formed

1963 January Band gives display at Royal Visit

May 80th Anniversary Relay Run. Band plays at

Government House, Wellington and Sunday Parade

1964 Band re-equips with new instruments

1965 June 6 Company celebrates 21st anniversary

Dec 4 Bruce Patchett retires. Gary Longman

appointed Captain.

1964/65 Trevor Hayes takes part in DSIR Youth Antarctic

programme

1969 Company celebrates 25th anniversary

1978/79 Camp Marlborough National Camp, Blenheim

1982 Company moves to Wesley Centre complex

1995 Company celebrates Golden Jubilee

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The Object of The Boys’ Brigade —

The Advancement of Christ’s Kingdom

among Boys and the promotion of Habits

of Obedience, Reverence, Discipline,

Self Respect and all that tends towards

a true Christian manliness.