A WOMAN celebrating 50 years of service is hoping to inspire others to join the Girlguiding community.

Walney’s Rhona Teale was presented with an award celebrating her 50 years of Girlguiding at an annual gathering of leaders by Region Chief Commissioner Julie Walton.

Over the last five decades Rhona has worked through many changes in the Uniform and Programmes of Activities to keep Guiding ‘relevant for today’s girls’.

Rhona was Leader in Charge at St. Mary’s Walney Guides for 25 years before going to St. Paul’s. She also helps with the Brownie units in Barrow.

Rhona boasts the honour of being District Commissioner on four occasions, and County Commissioner from 2004-2009, as well as holding the post of County Chair of Finance for two five-year terms.

“Guiding has taken me all over the world,” said Rhona. I have taken girls from the region on a scout jamboree, stayed in Guide centres doing service in India and Mexico as well as visiting New Zealand.

“I have attended receptions at St. James’ Palace in 2005, Trouping the Colour in 2006, the Buckingham Palace garden party in 2009 and a service in Westminster Abbey in 2011.

“Guiding opens up a world of opportunities for its girls as well as their leaders through its wide range of activities as well as offering adventure, overseas trips, friendship and fun, life skills and outdoor activities whilst growing in confidence. “We embrace Diversity and Inclusion, welcome people from all backgrounds including disabled, LGBTQ+, people of colour and those of all religions or philosophical beliefs and none.”

Girlguiding is always looking for new members and leaders.

Rainbows is for those aged four to seven, Brownies from age seven to 10, and Guides for those aged between 10 and 14.

Rangers accepts members aged between 14 and 18, and girls can start working towards their leadership qualification at 16.

All leaders hold current DBS and safe space qualifications, and first aid and other training is given.

To find a unit near you, register at: girlguiding.org.uk