Sutton Brownies were given a surprise when Girlguiding Nottinghamshire’s County Commissioner, Jackie Brocklehurst, dropped in at 4th Sutton-in-Ashfield Brownies’ awards evening.

The highlight of the meeting in The Lammas huts was a special presentation to Libby Petford, 10, who was awarded Girlguiding Nottinghamshire’s Celtic Cross to acknowledge her exceptional courage and determination in the face of challenging personal circumstances.

“Libby has shown great bravery, maturity and resilience throughout a very difficult time in her life,” reads her citation. “She is a true credit to her family and fully lives up to her Brownie promise.”

Now a member of Skegby Guides, Libby remains a Guide helper at the Brownie pack, where her mum, Cheryl — affectionately known as Snowflake by the girls — is one of the unit’s adult leaders.
The presentation was a complete surprise to them both.

“It was a great night for all the girls who collected their badges, but it was a particularly memorable occasion for Libby and Cheryl,” said Tawny Owl Catherine Graves, who had nominated Libby for the Celtic Cross.

“I’m always delighted to help celebrate our girls’ achievements and was honoured to be invited to give Libby this special award,” reflected Jackie Brocklehurst after the presentation.

“It’s wonderful and humbling to see our younger members showing such amazing determination to overcome the challenges which life throws at them.”

Girlguiding Nottinghamshire is recruiting additional volunteers to open up more opportunities for friendship, fun and personal development to girls and young women all over the county.

Anyone interested in finding out what’s involved is invited to call 0115 987 7220 or visit www.girlguidingnottinghamshire.org.uk