A CLITHEROE woman who has devoted nearly 30 years to the Brownie movement has retired.

Pat Houldsworth recently stepped down as Brown Owl at St Mary's Brownies after 29 years in the role.

Paying tribute to Pat, the Rev Canon Philip Dearden, vicar at St Mary's Church, said: "Over many years Pat has faithfully built up the trust of parents and girls to make our pack one of the strongest you can imagine.

"Throughout her time as Brown Owl she has infected the girls with her enthusiasm, imagination and Christian commitment which has been clear for all to see, especially when the girls have been on parade."

He added: "Pat feels that the right time has come to step aside. She has exercised an invaluable ministry and set a wonderful example to other leaders and would-be leaders, and in true style she has also trained some excellent adults to follow in her wake."

Pat's successor will be Carol Dinsdale, also from Clitheroe.