Commenting after the visit, Carla said:

“It was lovely to be with 5th Portadown Boys Brigade, Tartaraghan, on Friday night alongside my colleague Alderman Sydney Anderson. It was uplifting to meet with the young men who attend the company, and their very dedicated leaders.

It was especially an honour to present the Anchor Boys Section with a badge marking Her Late Majesty’s Platinum year and to serve as a reminder of her patronage and love of the BB. For the Older Boys Section, both Sydney and I really enjoyed the discussion on current affairs, and also the more local discussion around issues that need addressed in the Birches area which is part of the boys badge work. From the exchanges it is clear there could be a few future public representatives within the ranks, with the passion for a better local area and a better Northern Ireland clear from the questions and comments. Certainly both Sydney and I came away from the discussion both challenged and inspired by what we had heard.

The Boys Brigade is a tremendous organisation that instils many foundation blocks into the lives of young men, both in terms of Bible teaching, but also many practical skills that are of huge benefit for the rest of their adult life. At Tartaraghan Julie and David, alongside the rest of the leadership team, do a fantastic job and ensure the boys really enjoy being members of the BB. Along with Sydney we wish the Company continued success in the years ahead.”