'It’s an adventure': Meet the inspirational Leeds Brownie leader recognised by Girlguiding after 65 years
Sue Bunn first joined Brownies at seven-years-old - at 72 she’s still there now!
An inspirational Leeds Brownie leader who has been involved with Girlguiding for 65 years was thanked for her dedication at an exclusive red carpet event in London’s West End last weekend.
Sue Bunn, 72, who lives in Halton, was honoured alongside joined hundreds of fellow outstanding volunteers at the Girlguiding Celebrates event at the Odeon Luxe on Leicester Square on Saturday June 6 .
The annual party celebrated volunteers who had been nominated by Girlguiding members, parents and carers for their incredible contributions.
The Brownie leader said that she felt “astounded” when she found out that she had been nominated.
Sue said: “I was thrilled and honoured. It was lovely to go to an occasion full of people who care just as much about Girlguiding as I do.
Sue’s involvement with Girlguiding began at just seven years old when Sue joined 1st Gildersome Brownies.
After progressing on to Guides and Rangers, at 16 Sue decided to begin helping out at her old Brownie group.
In 1973, Sue became leader of 1st Gildersome Brownies and has been there ever since, despite moving to Halton when she got married 48 years ago.
Sue said: “I’m still there, loving it as much as when I was seven years old.
“I’ve reached the stage where some of our Brownies’ grandmas were my first Brownies! I can’t wait for Wednesdays, our Brownies night, to come around each week. I go in with a smile and come home with a smile.
“I simply adore all the girls and have a great team who all create wonderful opportunities and experiences for the girls. We’re there to help them to believe that they can have their best go at anything, broaden their horizons, make and build new friendships, develop skills, build their confidence, try out new adventures and have the best fun ever!”
As well as supporting the girls, Sue feels she gets a lot out of volunteering on a personal level too.
“It’s an adventure which goes on forever,” the 72-year-old said.
“It’s given me never-ending friendships, fun and support. It challenges my thinking and has opened doors to lots of opportunities. My favourite activity is going on pack holiday. I’ve helped to organise nearly 50 holidays over the years. I feel so lucky.”
Sue was nominated by Kathryn Alexander for her dedication to the girls in her unit.
Kathryn said: “Sue is amazing and cares so much.
“She gives one hundred percent week in and week out to help the girls get the most out of Brownies; whilst having as much fun as possible, helping the environment and making memories. A better advocate for Girlguiding, I honestly believe, you would struggle to find.”
Girlguiding is powered by over 80,000 inspiring volunteers who give their time and talents to create the best experience for girls.
If you’re interested in volunteering, visit the Girlguiding website to learn more.