The 4th Ashton-u-Lyne Company of the Boys' Brigade was founded in September 1932. Our first Captain was James Plenderleith who was assisted by Lieutenants Ernest Plenderleith and Albert Warren. In September 1936, James Plenderleith resigned as Captain and was replaced by Albert Warren, who remained as Captain until 1965 when he began to work with people with learning disabilities. Albert always remained connected with the Company and for a period helped out as Leader of the Life Boys', now known as the Junior Section. He served for a period as President of the Company and is now at the grand age of 90 a Life Member of our Company. Albert is held in  high esteem at the 4th Ashton and is fondly referred to as the " Daddy of the Company ".
    The Warren Family certainly figured in the Company's membership with Albert being supported by six of his Brothers, Harry, Joseph, Samuel, Ernest, Thomas and Frank.

    In 1932 the Company began with 20 Boys and 3 Officers. The Boys' uniform consisted of a cap (one shilling and ninepence), brown belt (two shillings) and a white cotton haversack (ninepence). So for each Boy the uniform cost four shillings and sixpence. Total cost for 20 Boys was four pounds and ten shillings.

    During it's time the 4th Ashton has produced two Congregational Ministers (now United Reformed) and a Royal Naval Commander. It would be nice to know exactly how society has benefited from the 4th Ashton, so, if you were once amongst our ranks we would love to hear from you.