A BLACK Country youth organisation is inviting past and present members to help celebrate its 40th birthday.

The 4th Dudley Boys’ Brigade, which is now based in Blackheath, will be marking four decades since the company first launched in Netherton at a special event from 6pm on Sunday (March 4).

Richard Johnson, an officer in the company, said: “We would like to invite all past and present members and their families to join us in celebrating this special occasion.

“After starting at Noah's Ark Methodist Church in Netherton back in 1978 a lot has happened.”

Following the closure of Noah’s Ark – where the group regularly entertained over 30 children at one time – the company moved around the area, with Northfield Road Primary School being one of its homes.

The group now meets at Blackheath Central Methodist Church, in High Street.

Visit www.facebook.com/events/2014917062064555/ for more information about the birthday celebrations.