AROUND 190 Brownies and Rainbows along with about 45 leaders and helpers from Girlguiding Wharfedale (Addingham, Ilkley, Burley and Menston) celebrated Thinking Day in the King’s Hall, Ilkley recently.

World Thinking Day is an annual event held by the the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts across 150 countries. This event seeks to spread empowerment, friendship, and sisterhood among girls and to raise awareness on issues affecting girls and women from all walks of life. Each year, World Thinking Day has a different theme.

Ilkley Gazette: Thinking Day celebrations at the King's Hall, IlkleyThinking Day celebrations at the King's Hall, Ilkley

The theme for the day in Ilkley was taken from the 2023 World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) World Thinking Day activity pack with the theme "Our World, Our Thriving Future".

Ann Peacock, PR advisor for Girlguiding Wharfedale said: "There were 15 activity stations for the girls to visit and create a craft or do a quiz. The theme was loosely based on nature to link with the environment and peace.

Ilkley Gazette: A traditional Ukranian wool dollA traditional Ukranian wool doll

"Amongst other things, girls made ‘bug houses’ in old mugs, Lego trefoils and Herman worm and bead man. A lady from Ukraine demonstrated traditional flower painting and showed the girls how to make traditional wool dolls.

Ilkley Gazette: A craft activity at the Thinking Day celebrationA craft activity at the Thinking Day celebration

"All girls made pompoms in their meetings from crepe paper. Cheerleaders from Inspirations Dance based in Baildon and Otley choreographed amazing movements for the girls to take part in cheerleading prior to renewing the Promise which is always a big part of Thinking Day.

Ilkley Gazette: A craft activity at the Thinking Day celebrationA craft activity at the Thinking Day celebration

"Quote of the day came from Division Commissioner Sue Vint who said: 'I think it was a brilliant afternoon. The girls and leaders alike were very enthusiastic and engrossed in all the activities. Lots of girls I asked said they were having a fun time. I felt there was a great guiding spirit'."