Brenda Laight
Brenda was a friend to all who knew her and contributed greatly to the Newton Aycliffe community. Brenda spent 38 years of her life involved in numerous roles in the 1st Newton Aycliffe Boys Brigade company. Starting off as a helper in 1983, becoming an officer and progressing through the different sections until becoming Captain of the 1st Newton Aycliffe for the last 20 years. In addition she was also Secretary for the Darlington and District Battalion for many years.
Seeing the children complete the set activities each week, which would help them attain their badges, brought much pleasure to Brenda. There was always a varied programme of activities organised by her, which included sports, cooking, model making and quizzes, to name but a few. There were visits to and from various organisations, weekends away and competitions between the different Darlington and District companies. The younger boys particularly liked things where animals were involved.
Brenda helped many boys progress to achieve the President’s badge and ultimately their Queen’s badge. In fact, Bailey and Benedict Crossen were both working on their Queen’s badge when COVID restrictions began. They have both said they want to complete it, which is a special achievement for them, but also in memory of Brenda. I’m sure Brenda would be very proud of both of them, as she was of all the children who progressed through Boys Brigade.
Sadly, not everyone was able to attend the funeral service due to COVID restrictions. There were many people who waited outside Neville Parade Methodist Church, both before and after the service, wanting to pay their respects. Brenda touched the lives of so many and will be sorely missed by us all.
In memory of Brenda, contributions to Target Ovarian Cancer Charity.
