LEADERS from Girlguiding Wharfedale gathered at West Yorkshire North Camp Holiday and Expedition Site (WYNCHES) in Burley-in-Wharfedale for a special thank you evening.
Division Commissioner Sue Vint has just finished her term of office which she has held for seven years. The incoming Commissioner, Karen Hill made a short speech and a presentation of a voucher and some gardening items to Sue who is a well known gardener. She will carry on as a Unit Guider in Burley and maintain her District Commissioner role.
Sue said: "I was overwhelmed by such lovely comments in the card, they were very moving and I will treasure it. Thank you again for all your support over the years."
She then went on to present certificates and badges of thanks and recognition to members of her executive team who will carry on in their roles with Karen.
The evening was rounded off by sharing a fantastic curry supper prepared and presented by Burley Ranger Guide Unit.
Ann Peacock, PR Advisor for Girlguiding Wharfedale said: "We are so lucky to have such a centre as WYNCHES so close to home and all of our Units make good use of it for camps, holidays, archery, grass sledging and many other outdoor activities familiar to the Girlguiding Association. As you may have noticed in The Gazette, members are in danger of losing five of the National Centres which have many more facilities and would be sorely missed never to be recovered. Before departing, the Leaders gathered for a photograph to show their support for the battle to save the centres – the symbol of this support is a heart formed by forefingers and thumbs.
"Girlguiding members appreciate all support with challenging this decision, such as signing the petition which can be found at: https://www.change.org/p/girlguiding-uk-to-review-and-reconsider-the-decision-to-sell-the-five-activity-centres."
The day after the leaders thank you event around 30 girls from all sections (Rainbows, Brownies and Guides) and a dozen Leaders took part in the Rombald's Ramble.
They walked from Darwin Gardens in Ilkley to The Apostle Stones and back, having picnicked on the way. Units taking part were from Wharfedale Division plus one Guide Unit which came from Oakworth.
Ann Peacock said: "WhatsApp messages to Leaders after the walk were to say that they’d had a ‘fab time’. One 10 year old Guide said ‘I've walked a million, billion miles and I feel awesome’. A bit of an exaggeration but the miles will count towards the North East England step out badges to encourage walking and it will also count into the new land adventure badge. Great stuff because we know that most girls like to achieve as many badges as possible.
"Ally Foster, Leader of 3rd Ilkley Brownie Guide Unit has just resigned as County Walking Advisor. This activity has been arranged for several years by Ally, halted only by Covid so everyone expressed grateful thanks and wished her well."
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