This book lists and illustrates probably every badge ever used by The Boys’ Brigade in the UK and Ireland from its foundation in 1883. It has been painstakingly researched and records in one place the full history of Boys’ Brigade Badges, their origins and changes over the last 120 years. It is excellent value for money and is packed with over 800 badge illustrations, in full colour, in its 292 A4 pages. There are also many old black and white prints that enrich the wonderful story of the proficiency badges, medals, uniform badges, button badges and scarf pins of the world’s first international uniformed youth organisation. It is fully referenced with all sources listed at the end of each section. A full glossary of badge terminology (probably the first ever produced) has also been included at the end of this volume.

Jam-packed with information it makes for a fascinating read - either cover to cover or to dip into now and then. Its three authors must be the top three BB Historians and Collectors in the UK. Rob Bolton co-ordinating editor, has enriched his narrative by his vast collection of old photographs. He draws form his long BB experiences in the BB as a boy and officer in the West Midlands. He also brings his wealth of knowledge through his research of BB History and Badge Collecting. Les Howie also draws from his wealth of BB knowledge and experiences in Edinburgh. He has painstakingly researched much of this volume and undertook the proof reading. Bob Mandry’s contribution to the book comes from his two main hobbies collecting and photography. Bob has built up a vast knowledge of BB Badges and must have one of the largest collections. He also uses his photography skills to skillfully record every badge. A list of every BB Badge including every variety ever produced in the UK and Ireland has been painstakingly produced. This "Checklist" has been published as a companion to the book and is available as a separate item in ring - binder format.

There already exists much first-class published material covering the development and history of The Boys’ Brigade mostly the result of research undertaken for the Centenary in 1983. Badges of the Brigade fills yet another gap giving us a unique insight into some of the Brigades’ early activities.

I strongly recommend this book to anyone interested in the history and development of the Boys’ Brigade. It is an excellent book for all members and ex-members as well as an essential catalogue for all enthusiasts and collectors of brigade memorabilia. An excellent book to use within the Company programme for badge work, it also illustrates parts of Brigade History (especially in the Target Year). Finally, it illustrates some of the social history of the 20th century - that which is our own Brigade Heritage - Surely a must for every Company.