GIRLGUIDING West Yorkshire North held a Thanks and Recognition Evening on Friday, October 12 at the Queen’s Hall in Burley-in-Wharfedale.

The evening was hosted by Wharfedale Division and saw 150 women of all ages gather for a meal and to congratulate each other on the work done in Girlguiding locally.

They were welcomed by County Commissioner Julie Smith and the Deputy Lieutenant for West Yorkshire Major Stan Hardy, gave a short address where he sincerely thanked Girlguiding for what is done for the young people today, saying that the fostering of community awareness and good citizenship is invaluable in today’s climate of pressure in school, in work and at home. His words were echoed by Ann Gordon the Chief Commissioner for North East England.

The County Commissioner for West Yorkshire Scouts, Mark Stageman, was also present to acknowledge the close relationship between the two Movements.

Alison Gordon presented Girlguiding long service brooches to Rita Haynes, Gillian Mulligan (30 years), Angela Overend, Bobby Barford, Chris Simpson (40 years) and the special silver rose brooches for 25 years service within Yorkshire were presented by County Vice President, Gillian Everall, to Heidi Beardsmore, Gill Lister, Su Holgate and Ann Peacock.

Further presentations for exceptional service were made to Chris Simpson, Louise Welch, Janet Armstrong and Kay Bolton.

Girlguiding is the largest all female youth organisation in the country and provides activities and development opportunities for girls and young women aged between five and 25. The Girlguiding County of West Yorkshire North includes the city of Bradford, plus the surrounding areas of Wharfedale and Keighley and boasts a membership of nearly 3,000 girls.

To fulfil the commitment to these members many volunteers are required who are willing to give their time and energy to train. There are currently 769 such volunteers, 347 of them holding full Leadership qualifications.

More volunteers are always needed. Visit www.girlguiding.org.uk/