NEWS RELEASE 13th March 2018
Guide Unit Helper gains top award in Region
Disability Awareness was the theme of a special night for 1st Alverstoke Guides on Monday when Victoria Langford led the programme from a position of knowledge. Vicky has multiple disabilities and was able to explain her life story and how she has made adaptations to live life to the full. Guiding has been a big part of her social life providing fun and exciting challenges that she has readily taken part in.
With activities such as visiting the Guiding international centre at Our Chalet in Switzerland, going through an ice cave, camping at Foxlease the Guide centre in the New Forest, attending the Big Gig pop concerts and gliding from HMS Daedalus. Guiding has given Vicky amazing opportunities for nearly 40 years.
During the evening on Monday the Guides were able to gain a better understanding of how activities and games can be adapted for use by all. Denise Starkie of GADSAD (the Gosport & District Sports Association for the Disabled) talked about what they do locally and Vicky showed her sporting medals gained over many years. Her ‘boss’ Tina Lewis, the Manager of Scope in Gosport, explained how Vicky helps as a Key Volunteer in the shop and is a valued member of the team.
The big surprise though was from Lyndsey Cook, County Commissioner for Girlguiding in Hampshire East, who Vicky thought was just visiting to see her disability awareness programme in action! Lyndsey produced a framed certificate and citation recognising her dedicated years of Guiding service and presented Vicky with the coveted Region Chief Commissioner’s Award badge.
Assistant Leader at 1st Alverstoke Guides, Pam Marsden, said “Vicky deserved an award for her loyal support. She used to be a Young Leader with me many years ago and has continued to give great service benefiting the Guides locally through her inspiration and support.”
Girlguiding is the UK’s largest voluntary organisation for girls and young women, led by dedicated trained volunteer Leaders. Why not register your daughter in Guiding by visiting and use the ‘Information for parents’ tab for more information.
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The photo shows Vicky after receiving her award surrounded by L-R: Lyndsey Cook (County Commissioner, Girlguiding Hampshire East; Tina Lewis (Manager of Scope in Gosport); Pam Marsden (Assistant Leader 1st Alverstoke Guides); Diane Williams (Leader of 1st Alverstoke Guides); and front/right Denise Starkie of GADSAD.
1st Alverstoke Guide Unit is an operating name of The Guide Association.
Guides are aged 10-14 years. Registered Charity No. 306016