News
26 July 2026
Volunteers Saddle Up for 50K Cycle Challenge to Support BB Museum's New Home
The Boys' Brigade East Antrim Battalion Heritage Society is calling on the local community to support its volunteers as they take on a special 50-kilometre sponsored cycle challenge to help fund the next exciting chapter in the history of the BB Museum. The challenge comes as the charity prepares to move into its new, larger premises at 34 North Street, Carrickfergus. The new museum will provide significantly more exhibition space, improved facilities for visitors and volunteers, and a secure home for the Society's ever-growing collection. However, the larger building also brings increased running and maintenance costs. To help meet these additional expenses, volunteers from the Society will cycle the equivalent distance from the historic Boys' Brigade Museum at Gannaway, Millisle, to the BB Museum's new home in Carrickfergus-a journey of approximately 50 kilometres. Each participant will be collecting sponsorship through individual sponsor forms, while supporters from further afield can contribute through the Society's GoFundMe fundraising campaign. Chair of Trustees Drew Buchanan MBE said: "Our volunteers give thousands of hours each year to preserve and share the remarkable history of The Boys' Brigade. As we prepare to move into our new premises, we face increased costs but also incredible opportunities. This cycle challenge is about much more than raising funds-it's about bringing our community together to help secure the future of the BB Museum. Every pound donated will make a real difference." The BB Museum is home to thousands of artefacts, photographs, uniforms, medals, documents and memorabilia, telling the story of The Boys' Brigade both locally and internationally. Since opening its first museum premises in Carrickfergus, the charity has welcomed thousands of visitors, hosted changing exhibitions and educational events, and worked tirelessly to preserve the heritage of one of the world's oldest Christian youth organisations. The move to the new premises marks the beginning of an exciting new era, allowing even more of the collection to be displayed and ensuring the museum can continue to grow for many years to come. The Boys' Brigade East Antrim Battalion Heritage Society is encouraging individuals, churches, community groups and local businesses to sponsor a volunteer or make a donation through its GoFundMe campaign: gofundme Support the BB Museum's New Bigger Premises Appeal Every contribution, large or small, will help create a sustainable future for the museum and ensure that the heritage of The Boys' Brigade is preserved for future generations. For more information, to sponsor a cyclist or to arrange an interview, please contact: Drew Buchanan MBE
Chair of Trustees
The Boys' Brigade East Antrim Battalion Heritage Society
Email: chair@bbeab.org
Together, we can help preserve the rich heritage of The Boys' Brigade for future generations.