Girlguide volunteer recognised for years of service

A Girlguiding volunteer has been honoured with a prestigious award for her years of work supporting girls and young women.

Volunteer for Hampshire north Ruth Bint was presented with a Laurel Award, Girlguiding’s second highest honour, at the beginning of this month.

The Laurel Award is given to someone who is a role model, team player, shows brilliant leadership skills and an outstanding commitment to Guiding.

Mrs Bint said: “It was a complete surprise to receive my Laurel Award. I was stunned and feel so honoured to receive it.

“Girlguiding has given me fun, friendship and many amazing opportunities and adventures over the years.

“Girlguiding helped build my confidence and enabled me to take on many new challenges in life.

“It is so rewarding to help provide opportunities for girls and young women to grow in confidence and build the skills they need for life.”

Mrs Bint is the Duke of Edinburgh lead volunteer for the Girlguiding South West England region and she has supported hundreds of girls through completing their Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

She was instrumental in the rolling out of the Diamond Fund which helps to support disadvantaged young people complete their Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

She is also involved in the organisation of a biennal Girlguide outdoor activity event called ‘Try, Inspire and Qualify’, and she has led Girlguide groups up to the summit of Mount Snowdon using her mountain leader qualification.