Leeds Brownie leader honoured after 65 years supporting generations of local girls

Sue Bunn, 72, who lives in Halton, joined hundreds of fellow outstanding volunteers at the Girlguiding Celebrates event in London’s West End.       

The fabulous annual party – now in its fourth year – thanked and celebrated volunteers who were nominated by other Girlguiding members, parents and carers for making incredible contributions. 

The unforgettable afternoon saw attendees walk the red carpet, before enjoying delicious treats, refreshments and spectacular entertainment. 

Sue has been involved with Girlguiding for an incredible 65 years. She has been part of the movement since she joined as a Brownie growing up in Gildersome at the age of seven, before progressing on to Guides and Rangers in the village.  

She started helping at the same unit she herself had attended as a child, 1st Gildersome Brownies, when she was 16. Sue has volunteered there ever since and has been their leader since 1973, despite moving to Halton when she got married 48 years ago. 

“I’m still there, loving it as much as when I was seven years old,” said Sue. “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 says she gets a lot out of volunteering on a personal level too. 

“It’s an adventure which goes on forever,” she says. “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.” 

The Girlguiding Celebrates event was held on Saturday, June 6  at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square.  

“I was astounded when I had found out that I had been nominated,” said Sue. “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 was nominated by parent Kathryn Alexander for her dedication to the girls in her unit. 

“Sue is amazing and cares so much,” said Kathryn. “She gives 100 per cent 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. Girls thrive in Girlguiding. They’re on average 28% more confident than other girls in the UK, and 15% happier.1 

Girlguiding volunteers make a huge difference to the lives of thousands of girls, however much time they can spare. They also get to have lots of incredible experiences, develop new skills, and meet other like-minded people along the way. 

For more information about the flexible volunteering opportunities available at Girlguiding, visit girlguiding.org.uk