On Thursday 13th May Girlguiding Cornwall took the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of some of its members and to thank many others for their commitment over the past years especially those who had been involved with celebrating the centenary year in 2010.

The large gathering of girls and their parents along with Leaders and their supporters was welcomed by both Mary Eddy, the current County Commissioner and Jill Kendall, President of Girlguiding Cornwall. They also welcomed Gill Slocombe who is about to become Chief Guide for Girlguiding UK.

During the evening presentations were made to Guides and Senior Section girls who had successfully completed their Baden Powell and Queens Guide Award Challenges, followed by Long Service and Special Thank You awards to Leaders from across the county.

It was only when most people thought that it was all over that Gill Slocombe announced that she had a very special surprise for Mary Eddy. She then presented her with the Laurel Award which is only given by Girlguiding UK to people who have shown outstanding commitment and inspirational work within  Girlguiding. Only a very small number of these awards are given out in the UK and they recognise someone who is very special within the guiding movement.

As Mary finishes her term of office as County Commissioner later this year is was an amazing tribute to the work she has done for the last five years. Mary was both surprised and of course delighted by the award.

Queen's Guides, Heather Walker from Falmouth, left, and Bethany Westcott from Saltash, right. with Gill Slocombe.