Worksop: Celebrations as girlguiding volunteers are honoured for their services

The celebratory party was held by Girlguiding Notts at Portland College in Mansfield and County Commissioner Kate Royse presented awards marking the exceptional achievements of some 60 members and supporters.

Thirty-year long service awards were given to Worksop’s Margaret Little and Janis Barthorpe, whilst Celia Hoult received an award marking 50 years of service.

Kirstie Pogson was given the County brooch, and Margaret Merrills was awarded the Notts Star for having encouraged countless Worksop girls to make the most of their abilities.

During the afternoon, Kate Royse presented long-service awards to 19 Notts women who have devoted a combined total of almost 700 years to Guiding, together with Oak Leaf awards to 13 leaders and the Notts Star to six non-uniformed volunteers.

Five Queen’s Guide Awards were given special mention, whilst seven County brooches and six Thanks badges were presented.

The first five recipients of the county’s new Peer Education award were also announced.

“All our volunteers are amazing people and I continue to marvel at their enthusiasm, energy and commitment,” said Kate Royse.

“But those celebrated on this afternoon have given what I can only describe as exceptional service and it was a privilege to present them with these tokens of our esteem.

“I believe it’s vital to maintain girl-only spaces in which our young women can develop their potential.

“And yet it’s only through the support of volunteers like these that we can offer such opportunities to so many girls here in Notts.”

Girlguiding Notts currently has a membership of around 9,000 girls and young women but adult supporters and volunteers are essential if units are to keep open.

For details, call 0115 9877220, e-mail Kate Royse at [email protected] or visit www.girlguidingnottinghamshire.org.uk