GIRLGUIDING volunteers were given special awards for clocking up 110 years of service between them.

The long-service awards were presented to volunteers in Girlguiding Ribble Valley Division at Waddow Hall in Clitheroe.

A total of six 10-year service awards and 10 five-year service awards were presented by Lancashire East County Commissioner, Barbara Bryan.

Jenny Ashton, leader of Langho St. Mary’s Guides, said: “I joined Girlguiding as a Brownie and then a Guide.

"I loved Girlguiding so much that when I had my own daughter I helped establish two Rainbow groups, then Brownies, then Guides.

"Being awarded my 10-year service badge as a volunteer is a mountain top moment. I am so privileged to have had a positive impact on so many girl’s lives, watching them grow and develop in confidence.

"Some of my Guides have travelled the 10-year journey with me and are approaching their 16th birthdays!”

Ribble Valley Division Commissioner Harriet Smith thanked members of the outgoing district teams with spring flower arrangements, made by Emily the Florist of Chatburn.

Harriet also presented the incoming district teams with their commissioner badges and mugs labelled with their new roles to take to events.

Harriet said: “Our leaders provide wonderful experiences and it’s a pleasure to give them public recognition.

"Over 700 under 18-year-olds currently benefit directly from the support of our lovely leaders in the Ribble Valley.

"Long service awards show that our leaders enjoy guiding too!

"They make brilliant opportunities happen. If they are having half as much fun as me they must be having a fabulous time.

"Thank you to everyone who volunteers their time for the benefit of our young members.”