This week in . . . 1961

The premises was located at Rathmore House.

Performing the honours was Lord Maclay, president of the Boys’ Brigade.

The building at Glenarm Road could accommodate 42 guests. It featured a canteen, dining room, living room, conference room, kitchen, chapel and drill hall.

In addition, it provided four chalets for 22 guests.

Lord Maclay was welcomed by fellow peer Lord MacDermott, president of the Boys’ Brigade in Northern Ireland.

Lord MacDermott said that the opening would be one of his colleague’s last official roles as BB president before his retirement after 15 years’ service.

Lord Maclay said that he was “very happy” that his last public function as president was in an area of such “enthusiasm and devotion to the brigade” where its “principles were always upheld”.

The event was attended by chaplains Rev. R E W Thornton, of Inver Parish Church; Rev. R V A Lynas, Gardenmore Presbyterian; Rev. J S Armitage, Larne; and the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church.