On 21st September, Brownies and volunteer leaders, past and present, came together for a special party to celebrate 40 years of fun, friendship and adventure at 40th Ashton Brownies! The unit has been meeting at Holden Clough Community Primary School since 1st April 1984, when Jean Bradley opened the unit as Brown Owl.
The Brownies planned the special occasion themselves by preparing a welcome banner and speech, designing invitations for their family and friends, and choosing the party games and homemade treats. They were delighted to receive a special commemorative plaque to sign, handmade by guest Rosemary Johnston from 12th Ashton Brownies.
Margaret Biddle, leader at the unit for the last 35 years, kicked off the celebrations, saying: “It’s fantastic to see so many people here to celebrate our 40th anniversary, especially those who used to attend Brownies when they were young and have gone on to become volunteers for Girlguiding. We’re extremely grateful to the school and all of the leaders, girls and parents/carers for their ongoing support. Lots has changed over the decades but we continue to provide girls with somewhere safe and relaxing to be themselves, make friends, and try new things!”
Brownies Charlotte, Gracie and Isabella presented leaders Margaret Biddle and Carole Lowe with gifts to thank them for their extraordinary service of 35 years and 30 years respectively. The Brownies and their guests were happy to help draw the raffle and to see the Ashton Flag up close, prior to it going on display in the school for the next 12 months. The girls headed home with special certificates, party bags and slices of cake.
Now that the party has passed, the Brownies can look forward to a busy autumn/winter programme including building a campfire, baking, making bird feeders, and visiting the cinema. There are limited spaces at 40th Ashton, plus spaces for girls at Rainbows (ages 4-7), Brownies (ages 7-10), Guides (ages 10-14), and Rangers (ages 14-18) across Ashton Division and other parts of Tameside. Anyone who’s interested in registering their child or becoming a casual or regular volunteer should follow this link https://www.girlguiding.org.uk/get-involved