Riggs Retreat cont.

In 1883, The Boys’ Brigade became the first voluntary uniformed youth movement in the world. Others soon followed, such as the Church Lads' Brigade (1891) and Boy's Life Brigade (1899). Events at Hainault were usually held on the Whit Monday bank holiday.

"INVASION OF THE BOYS' BRIGADE AT HAINAULT - Hainault Forest on Whit Monday presented signs of much activity. Several thousands of boys belonging to various Boys' Brigades in London were provided with a day's outing. Special trains were run for the purpose of conveying them from Liverpool Street to Grange Hill Station."  Leytonstone Express and Independent 5 June 1909