The night begins with group games until every one has arrived. The whistle blows and the boys group into their teams for the roll call and uniform inspection. The boys are then given the chance to stand up and share any news that they may have with the rest of the boys. Afterwards the boys say the Anchor Boy Prayer and the leaders instruct them on what they will be doing that evening. All boys work towards the new Anchor Activity badges and this forms a significant part of the evening. A typical activity may consist of some craft-work, games and story-telling.
There are also many special events through the year and in the past we have had trips to the Fire Station, Police Station and Library. Other events are described below:
Enrolement Service
This Sunday afternoon service normally takes place in November. The location switches every year between Trinity Presbyterian and First Omagh Presbyterian Churches. Member’s attendance is recorded and parents and family are strongly encouraged to come along as well.
Battalion Parade
Each year a parade is held for all companies in the West Ulster Battalion. The boys parade to the church connected with the company hosting the parade for a short service of worship.
Fun and Games Day
The West Ulster Battalion heat is held on a Saturday afternoon in November. The competition involves a range of physical and mental tasks such as piecing together Christmas cards, identifying smells and relay games. Entry is restricted to a maximum of two teams each consisting of 4 boys and 2 subs which are normally selected in October.
Colouring Competition
Every year the boys take part in the Anchor Boy Competition which involves some creative skills. The boys normally draw and colour a picture and then the best two pieces are independently selected by a judge to represent First Omagh in the competition.
Games Nights
Throughout the year we have several special “Games Nights” where the boys compete in different activities. Over the year the points are totalled and the winning team is awarded a cup on Parents’ Night.
Parents’ Night
This is the boys chance to show some of the things they have been doing during the year and to receive their awards, certificates and prizes. It marks the end of the year for the Anchor Boys and all boys in the company normally play some part in the night. Parents’ Night normally takes place on the Friday before Good Friday. Group photos are also taken for the local press.
Charity
The Anchor Boys also have a chosen charity set by BBHQ every year. Further information about the charity selected this year and how we decide to support it will be distributed later in the year.
