The 18th Gateshead was founded in 1939 by Bill Atkinson at Denewell Avenue United Reform Church Low Fell, where the company still resides today. This year we are celebrating our 70th Anniversary!

The current Captain is Nick Bucknall, who took up the post in the summer of 2007, following on from Gail Woodall.

The 18th Gateshead is currently running all four sections, with over 47 lads, five officers and numerous helpers. It also has an active Duke Of Edinburghs scheme, in which three lads have already completed their Bronze award and 2 more are expected to complete very soon as well as one at Silver!

Over the last few years there have been many entertaining and fundraising events undertaken by the company. The Big Bash (variety show) to celebrate the Companys sixtieth year was a great success, as have been the many discos, quizzes, car washes and social events.

As ever the highlight of the BB year is annual camp, April 2009 at Broomley Grange (Northumberland) proving no exception.