Big Brownie Birthday Bash proves a winner

All the Brownie girls from across the county and neighbouring districts, aged from 7 to 10, were joined by 500 plus leaders, helpers and a team of ‘Party Makers’ for a day of special events and exclusive use of Wheelgate’s rides and attractions.

“This is one of the largest single events taking place in the UK to mark the 100th anniversary of Brownies’ foundation, and we’re really excited to have staged it here in Nottinghamshire,” said Kate Royse, Girlguiding Nottinghamshire’s County Commissioner as she greeted the girls.

A special welcome was extended to guest of honour Julie Bentley, chief executive of Girlguiding UK, who had travelled from London to join Nottinghamshire Brownies for the day.

The girls enjoyed a variety of specially-planned events including dance, aerobics, magic and circus-skills workshops plus music-making and arts and crafts, and the party closed with a special concert by local band The Burgundys.

Everyone also helped decorate two model elephants as part of Girlguiding’s regional Arts Explosion challenge: the finished artworks will be displayed after the event within an ‘elephant sculpture trail’ across the Midlands.

Youngsters also enjoyed all the activities on offer at the fun park and took picnics to make the most of the sunny day.

With temperatures reaching 25 degrees, the Brownies could cool off in the waterpark and enjoy ice-creams in what has been tipped as being a ‘fantastic occasion’.

“It’s been an amazing day for everyone,” added Kate. “Our thanks must be extended to the small army of volunteers who have made the Big Brownie Birthday so special. Without their time, dedication and enthusiasm it simply wouldn’t have happened.”

For details on volunteering opportunities with Girlguiding Nottinghamshire, call county headquarters on 0115 987 7220 or visit www.girlguidingnottinghamshire.org.uk