Volunteers from Mansfield and Ashfield were amongst those from across the county who were honoured at a Girlguiding Nottinghamshire tea party at Portland College.

County Commissioner Kate Royse presented awards marking the exceptional achievements of 60 members and supporters.

Thirty-year long service awards were made to Mansfield’s Patricia Holmes, Patricia Shipley and Kathy Straw, and Jan Wells, from Ashfield. Elaine Britnell was presented with the County Brooch. Local Queen’s Guide Lisa King was also congratulated.

The commissioner presented long-service awards to 19 women who have devoted a combined total of almost 700 years to Guiding, together with Oak Leaf awards to 13 leaders and the Nottinghamshire 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 by Kate as a personal gesture of appreciation.

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

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

“Yet it’s only through the support of volunteers like these that we can offer such opportunities to so many girls in Nottinghamshire.’

Girlguiding Nottinghamshire has a membership of around 9,000 girls and young women across the county, including Rainbows (aged 5-7), Brownies (7-10), Guides (10-14), Rangers, Senior Section and Young Leaders (14-25).

To become a volunteer, call county headquarters on 0115 987 7220, e-mail Kate Royse via [email protected] or visit Girlguiding Nottinghamshire’s website at www.girlguidingnottinghamshire.org.uk

Pictured are the Mansfield award winners — Patricia Holmes, Lisa King, Patricia Shipley and Kathy Straw — with County Commissioner Kate Royse, centre.