Guardian News

Guide unit has to close until leader is found

By David Morgan

8:30am Saturday 28th January 2012

ONE of Cheshire’s oldest Guide groups has been forced to close until a new leader can be found.

Chelford Guides, which was established in 1929, has temporarily shut its doors due a shortage of volunteers to run the group.

This has meant that young girls in the village have had to abandon their meetings in the Scout Hall in Knutsford Road to attend the Alderley Edge unit.

The 83-year-old group has been without a leader since volunteer Nicola Bharucha moved out of the area.

Judy Povey, speaking on behalf of the district team, said: “It’s very sad that we’ve been forced to suspend the Chelford Guiding unit.

“We’re very keen to get it going again and are appealing for adults in the area to get in touch if they’d like to be involved.

“Many women juggle a job, a family and other responsibilities with a role in Guiding and manage to do so quite successfully. Support and training is always available and no one is left isolated or without someone to turn to.”

The temporary closure is also expected to have a knock-on effect on Chelford’s Brownie pack.

Judy, who has been involved with Guiding for most of her life, added: “We have a thriving Brownie unit where the girls have lots of fun and opportunities to do some brilliant things.

“To be able to continue that on for girls of 10 and over would be excellent and excellent for the community too.”

Volunteers are offered full training, support and guidance.

Judy said: “Guiding is the largest youth organisation in the country.

“It enables girls and leaders to achieve their potential, helps them to work as part of a team, develops leadership skills, encourages commitment and responsibility, offers opportunities and challenges one might never experience elsewhere.

“It creates friendships, fun, and enjoyment right across the board.

“We’re all working together to get this unit revitalised.”

Could you help save Chelford Guides? To get in touch call Judy on 01625 583199 or Anne Carsons on 01625 612181

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