Guessens District News
Guessens District - News - Highlights Archive
Brownie Sleepover
1st Digswell Brownies recently had an autumn themed sleepover in the District Centre. A foray into Sherrardspark Wood was great fun, despite the rain: Everyone pitched in to make a giant leaf picture with colourful leaves we collected on the way there.
Back at the Centre we sat outside around a pit fire, eating the toffee apples we had made earlier, making popcorn and toasting marshmallows. And of course we sang campfire songs!
In the morning there was more creative energy - making edible Brownies, and more craft with nuts and seeds.
A busy sleepover and a really good time.
1st Digswell Brownies recently had an autumn themed sleepover in the District Centre. A foray into Sherrardspark Wood was great fun, despite the rain: Everyone pitched in to make a giant leaf picture with colourful leaves we collected on the way there.
Back at the Centre we sat outside around a pit fire, eating the toffee apples we had made earlier, making popcorn and toasting marshmallows. And of course we sang campfire songs!
In the morning there was more creative energy - making edible Brownies, and more craft with nuts and seeds.
A busy sleepover and a really good time.
Report & photos - Brown Owl, 1st Digswell Brownies
Thanksgiving Service at Westminster Abbey
Recently our District Commissioner, Sue Rees, was invited to attend the National Guide and Scout Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving in Westminster Abbey in recognition of her work on the new programme. Sue, who was accompanied by Jan North, said “it was a real honour to be invited to the service and the join in giving thanks to all the volunteers across the country who give up their time to ensure thousands of girls can take part in such an amazing range of activities. The Abbey is a very special place and really highlights how important Guiding and Scouting are to our young people.”
Recently our District Commissioner, Sue Rees, was invited to attend the National Guide and Scout Service of Celebration and Thanksgiving in Westminster Abbey in recognition of her work on the new programme. Sue, who was accompanied by Jan North, said “it was a real honour to be invited to the service and the join in giving thanks to all the volunteers across the country who give up their time to ensure thousands of girls can take part in such an amazing range of activities. The Abbey is a very special place and really highlights how important Guiding and Scouting are to our young people.”
Photos by Sue Rees and Jan North
Local Resource Centre (aka "The Guide Shop") Very Busy
With resources for the new programme now released, and the new term underway, the Guide Shop has been particularly busy. Understandably most leaders are really keen to be able to introduce the new programme at the earliest opportunity and have purchased large quantities of materials for their units. However, nationally, some resources are now in short supply and we are currently waiting on a number of items.
Leaders who want significant amounts of materials are advised to let the shop team know so that their orders can be made-up before they come to the shop.
September 2018
With resources for the new programme now released, and the new term underway, the Guide Shop has been particularly busy. Understandably most leaders are really keen to be able to introduce the new programme at the earliest opportunity and have purchased large quantities of materials for their units. However, nationally, some resources are now in short supply and we are currently waiting on a number of items.
Leaders who want significant amounts of materials are advised to let the shop team know so that their orders can be made-up before they come to the shop.
September 2018
New Programme Launched
The wait is officially over. Our new programme was launched today (21st July) with resources now available through our local resource centre "the guide shop", with a special opening on 23rd July.
The new programme is broad, challenging, relevant and up-to-date providing a coherent guiding journey from Rainbows to Rangers. For leaders there's a round up of everything entailed - from activities to badges and resources - in the autumn 2018 issue of "Guiding".
The wait is officially over. Our new programme was launched today (21st July) with resources now available through our local resource centre "the guide shop", with a special opening on 23rd July.
The new programme is broad, challenging, relevant and up-to-date providing a coherent guiding journey from Rainbows to Rangers. For leaders there's a round up of everything entailed - from activities to badges and resources - in the autumn 2018 issue of "Guiding".
Busy Brownies
Cricket
In June, 1st Digswell Brownies had a fabulous time learning to play cricket (in glorious weather) at Knightsfield Cricket Club. Uganda Friendship Challenge 1st Digswell Brownies also had a great time building shelters in the woods, as part of the Uganda Friendship Challenge. Also as part of the Uganda Friendship Challenge they did some outdoor cooking. They made toasted cheese and ham sandwiches on buddy burners, and dampers on the open fire. And, of course, they toasted marshmallows!! |
The Right to Vote
Today a group of Guides from 3rd WGC and 1st Digswell Guides joined thousands of women and girls who marched through London in a living banner of green, white and violet to mark 100 years since women got the right to vote. Procession 2018 started in Hyde Park and finished in Parliament Square. Joining with a number of other units from across the South East we were all given a coloured scarf (ours were green) and snaked our way through the capital singing and cheering and clapping. What a wonderful way to celebrate the role of women in history and how Girlguiding has given girls a voice for over 100 years.
Sue Rees
District Commissioner
10th June 2018
Today a group of Guides from 3rd WGC and 1st Digswell Guides joined thousands of women and girls who marched through London in a living banner of green, white and violet to mark 100 years since women got the right to vote. Procession 2018 started in Hyde Park and finished in Parliament Square. Joining with a number of other units from across the South East we were all given a coloured scarf (ours were green) and snaked our way through the capital singing and cheering and clapping. What a wonderful way to celebrate the role of women in history and how Girlguiding has given girls a voice for over 100 years.
Sue Rees
District Commissioner
10th June 2018
Welwyn-Hatfield Civic Awards 2018
Three WHBC Civic Awards were made this year, one of them being to Jean Dossett in recognition of her work for Girlguiding. Her award was for her many years as a guiding leader and especially her contributions to the creation of our new District Centre. Jean has been the driving force behind gaining planning permission, obtaining the freehold, fundraising, placing the contract to build the centre, project managing the build and liaising on almost a daily basis with the builders, and finally commissioning arrangements for the centre. We are delighted that Jean received this recognition |
Open Day - 22nd April 2018
A lovely Spring day and an opportunity for those who had not yet seen inside the new Centre to join us for "a cup of tea and a cake".
Our plaque commemorating the official opening by HRH The Countess of Wessex is now on display in the entrance lobby. (photo on "About Us" page.) |
County Awards Evening
23rd March 2018 Congratulations to the members of the District who received awards at tonight’s Girlguiding Hertfordshire Awards. Jean Dossett - Anglia Award and 30 years service, Jenny Maskrey - Good Service Certificate, Bethany Eaton - Good Guiding Badge, June Archer - Good Guiding Badge, Brian Archer- Good Guiding Badge, Jaineen Ladley-Ellmers - 30 years service. You are all role models and and inspiration to other leaders and girls. Pictured here (L to R): Bethany, Jean, Brian, June and Jenny |
HRH The Countess of Wessex, President Girlguiding, Officially Opens District Guide Centre
16 March 2018
16 March 2018
HRH arrived by helicopter at Police HQ, Welwyn Garden City. On arrival at the District Centre she was met by the Lord-Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE.
Outside the Centre was a colour party of 6 girls with flags. Before going into the building the Lord-Lieutenant presented:
Cllr Richard Thake - The Chairman of Hertfordshire County Council
Cllr Barbara Fitzsimon – Deputy Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield
Mr Rob Bridge – Chief Executive of Welwyn Hatfield
Charlie Hall QPM – Chief Constable of Hertfordshire
Mrs Amanda Medler – Chief Guide
Mrs Sue Beswick – Girlguiding Hertfordshire County Commissioner
Mrs Sue Rees – Girlguiding Guessens District Commissioner
On entering the building Sue Rees and Sue Beswick introduced HRH to:
Mrs Jean Dossett – Trustee and Chair of New Build Committee
Mrs Margaret Breese – Trustee and Treasurer
Mrs Charmaine Butler MBE – Trustee and Secretary
Mr Bill Butler – Trustee
Mrs Carole Davis – Trustee
Also in attendance were:
Mrs Sally Settle - WGC Heronswood District Commissioner
Mr John Dossett - District Supporter
Mrs Rachael Harrington – Girlguiding Hertfordshire Photographer
HRH then met Senior Section girls who were packing hygiene packs for the homeless.
Outside the Centre was a colour party of 6 girls with flags. Before going into the building the Lord-Lieutenant presented:
Cllr Richard Thake - The Chairman of Hertfordshire County Council
Cllr Barbara Fitzsimon – Deputy Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield
Mr Rob Bridge – Chief Executive of Welwyn Hatfield
Charlie Hall QPM – Chief Constable of Hertfordshire
Mrs Amanda Medler – Chief Guide
Mrs Sue Beswick – Girlguiding Hertfordshire County Commissioner
Mrs Sue Rees – Girlguiding Guessens District Commissioner
On entering the building Sue Rees and Sue Beswick introduced HRH to:
Mrs Jean Dossett – Trustee and Chair of New Build Committee
Mrs Margaret Breese – Trustee and Treasurer
Mrs Charmaine Butler MBE – Trustee and Secretary
Mr Bill Butler – Trustee
Mrs Carole Davis – Trustee
Also in attendance were:
Mrs Sally Settle - WGC Heronswood District Commissioner
Mr John Dossett - District Supporter
Mrs Rachael Harrington – Girlguiding Hertfordshire Photographer
HRH then met Senior Section girls who were packing hygiene packs for the homeless.
In the kitchen a group of Brownies (and leaders) were making some chocolate brownies and decorating biscuits. HRH tried her hand at icing some biscuits.
Proceeding into the main hall HRH was introduced to some of the major financial contributors and a representative of the Trefoil Guild:
Miss Joan Webb - Major financial contributor
Mr Alex Corches - Tarmac, Area Business Manager (major financial contributor)
Ms Stacey Odwell - Velux, Regional Sales Manager (donated windows)
Mr Mike Attridge - Lioncrest Homes (Builders)
Mrs Joan Cobb - WGC Trefoil Guild
Miss Joan Webb - Major financial contributor
Mr Alex Corches - Tarmac, Area Business Manager (major financial contributor)
Ms Stacey Odwell - Velux, Regional Sales Manager (donated windows)
Mr Mike Attridge - Lioncrest Homes (Builders)
Mrs Joan Cobb - WGC Trefoil Guild
HRH then met three groups of girls and leaders as follows:
- Guides conducting a science activity
- Guides who are going on International trips in 2018 (to Uganda and USA/Canada), working with Brownies on activities themed with the trip.
- Rainbows and Brownies who were playing games
To commemorate the occasion HRH was invited to unveil a plaque. Sue Rees gave a short speech about the rebuilding project and HRH replied praising the girls & leaders of the District in their achievement. A posy was presented to HRH by a Rainbow and a Guide thanked HRH for coming to open the Centre.
Girls and leaders were outside to wave as HRH left. Fortunately the weather was nice.
Girls and leaders were outside to wave as HRH left. Fortunately the weather was nice.
Many photos in Gallery
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Meeting our new Chief Guide
The official opening also gave us the opportunity to meet our new Chief Guide, Amanda Medler:
The official opening also gave us the opportunity to meet our new Chief Guide, Amanda Medler:
Pictured here, in front of the District Centre, (from L to R):
Julia Jeffery (Hertfordshire Assistant County Commissioner), Amanda Medler (UK Chief Guide), Sue Rees (Guessens District Commissioner),
Jean Dossett (Trustee and Chair of the New Build Committee) and Sue Beswick (Hertfordshire County Commissioner).
Julia Jeffery (Hertfordshire Assistant County Commissioner), Amanda Medler (UK Chief Guide), Sue Rees (Guessens District Commissioner),
Jean Dossett (Trustee and Chair of the New Build Committee) and Sue Beswick (Hertfordshire County Commissioner).
16th March 2018
District Centre - Open Afternoon
Although there could not be a general invite to be in the building when HRH visits, you can, of course, watch her arrival and her meeting with the dignitaries. Consequently, following the official opening we are arranging a further open afternoon (22nd April, 2:20 - 4:30) to allow everybody the opportunity to visit the new building and to join us in a cup of tea whilst looking around.
7 March 2018
Although there could not be a general invite to be in the building when HRH visits, you can, of course, watch her arrival and her meeting with the dignitaries. Consequently, following the official opening we are arranging a further open afternoon (22nd April, 2:20 - 4:30) to allow everybody the opportunity to visit the new building and to join us in a cup of tea whilst looking around.
7 March 2018
From The Royal Diary:
"The Royal Diary" shows that on 16th March, after attending the National Shire Horse Show, Bingley Hall, Stafford County Show Ground, HRH The Countess of Wessex, President, Girlguiding, will open the Girlguiding Centre, Guessens Road, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire.
"The Royal Diary" shows that on 16th March, after attending the National Shire Horse Show, Bingley Hall, Stafford County Show Ground, HRH The Countess of Wessex, President, Girlguiding, will open the Girlguiding Centre, Guessens Road, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire.
Official Opening
The exciting news is that we have been told that our Girlguiding President, HRH Countess of Wessex, will be coming to officially open the new District Centre in Guessens Road. She will be accompanied by the new Chief Guide and other dignitaries. This will be in March.
As you can probably imagine, there is now a lot of planning to be done!
The exciting news is that we have been told that our Girlguiding President, HRH Countess of Wessex, will be coming to officially open the new District Centre in Guessens Road. She will be accompanied by the new Chief Guide and other dignitaries. This will be in March.
As you can probably imagine, there is now a lot of planning to be done!
St Francis Christmas Tree Festival Competition
Tammy Williams (Leader) masterminded the construction of the tree for 1st WGC Brownies entry, the “Sleep Over Project". It won 1st prize in the Youth and Uniformed section of the St Francis Christmas Tree Festival competition!
This wonderful tree was made by the Brownies (with a little help from the Leader) during a 24-hour sleep-over at the Centre during the weekend 25th, 26th November. Well done girls.
The tree is now in the small hall at the Centre for everyone to see!
Tammy Williams (Leader) masterminded the construction of the tree for 1st WGC Brownies entry, the “Sleep Over Project". It won 1st prize in the Youth and Uniformed section of the St Francis Christmas Tree Festival competition!
This wonderful tree was made by the Brownies (with a little help from the Leader) during a 24-hour sleep-over at the Centre during the weekend 25th, 26th November. Well done girls.
The tree is now in the small hall at the Centre for everyone to see!
(Click on the pictures to see the full length of the tree.)
Report and photos: Margaret Breese - December 2017
3rd WGC Guides Cake Sale
Congratulations to girls from 3rd WGC guides who raised £100 with a music themed cake sale in aid of the fabulous Nordoff Robbins music therapy charity. Thank you to Edward and Caroline for coming to tell us all about the wonderful work the charity does.
Report and Photos: Sue Rees - November 2017
Reptile Night !
Last night, 3rd November, the 7th WGC Brownies had a visit from Codicote Reptiles. The guy was fab and the girls absolutely loved it!
He brought along a couple of snakes, some lizards and a tarantula.
This was a brilliant opportunity for the Brownies to get up close to these fascinating creatures!
By the end of it, even the nervous ones were wanting to hold everything.
Last night, 3rd November, the 7th WGC Brownies had a visit from Codicote Reptiles. The guy was fab and the girls absolutely loved it!
He brought along a couple of snakes, some lizards and a tarantula.
This was a brilliant opportunity for the Brownies to get up close to these fascinating creatures!
By the end of it, even the nervous ones were wanting to hold everything.
Report and photos from 7th WGC Brownies
Making The Promise
Being enrolled as a Rainbow, Brownie or Guide is a special occasion and girls get to choose when and how they want to make their Promise. The 3rd Welwyn Garden City Guides have had some novel ideas. In the summer some girls were paddle boarding at Stanborough Lakes when they made their Promise and others decided to celebrate with sparklers near Bonfire night.
Being enrolled as a Rainbow, Brownie or Guide is a special occasion and girls get to choose when and how they want to make their Promise. The 3rd Welwyn Garden City Guides have had some novel ideas. In the summer some girls were paddle boarding at Stanborough Lakes when they made their Promise and others decided to celebrate with sparklers near Bonfire night.
Sue Rees (Otter)
Rainbows Celebrate
On Sunday 24th September, Rainbows across the country celebrated Rainbows 30th birthday. Rainbows from Guessens District celebrated by going on a visit to Paradise Wildlife Park. It was a beautiful sunny afternoon, and after looking around at the animals, we all enjoyed singing 'Happy Birthday' and eating birthday cake. Details from 1st Codicote Rainbows
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First Overnight Event The District Centre recently played host to its first overnight event. 18 girls from Hertfordshire County took part in the Baden-Powell Adventure weekend. They made ‘no sew’ cushions, took part in a selfie challenge around Welwyn Garden City and then went to the outdoor cinema at Hatfield House! The District centre proved an ideal base! Sue Rees (Otter) |
Testing Times
In September, during a meeting in the new District Centre, the 3rd Welwyn Garden City Guides had fun trying out some of the taster activities from the new UK Girlguiding programme which is currently being developed. The girls also enjoyed trying their hand at taekwondo ! |
Acoustic Panels Fitted in the District Centre
On 30th August 2017 Herwin Acoustics Ltd fitted acoustic panels in both the main and small halls. (There are a further two small panels due to be fitted in the main hall in the next few weeks). These reduce the reverberation (echo) and a hirer on 31st August commented how much better it was than when they made a preliminary visit. |
Our Garden in August 2017
At the end of August our District Centre garden has really blossomed - a profusion of colour. The new rich soil has no doubt helped.
The tomato plants are also yielding plenty of fruits.
At the end of August our District Centre garden has really blossomed - a profusion of colour. The new rich soil has no doubt helped.
The tomato plants are also yielding plenty of fruits.
Acoustics in the District Centre
Early users of the new District Centre in Guessens Road have found the acoustics to have a very bad echo effect. A little research showed that many halls have similar problems - you'd think architects would produce hall designs without these problems (as they need to for some other categories establishments) but it seems that they don't!
Proper reverberation tests were made a few weeks ago and a contract has now been placed for the provision of acoustic panels which should substantially improve the situation. The work should take place at the end of August.
Proper reverberation tests were made a few weeks ago and a contract has now been placed for the provision of acoustic panels which should substantially improve the situation. The work should take place at the end of August.
5K Bubble Rush
16th July : Taking part in the 5K BubbleRush at Cheshunt - in aid of Isabel Hospice.
Photos from 1st Digswell Guides
RSPB Rye Meads
1st Digswell Brownies had a great trip to RSPB Rye Meads recently. They had a mini-beast hunt, saw lots of birds, including baby kestrels, and made a sticky leaf summer collage. All with the help of some wonderful RSPB volunteers!
Photos and report courtesy of 1st Digswell Brownies
Our Guides At Tolmers Activity Centre
On Monday 12th June, 56 guides from 1st Digswell and 7th WGC spent an enjoyable evening at Tolmers Scout Activity Centre.
The girls took part in a number of activities: high ropes, climbing wall and the large inflatable. They were able to spend an hour on each activity and were all very tired by the end of the evening but had "an awesome time"!
The girls took part in a number of activities: high ropes, climbing wall and the large inflatable. They were able to spend an hour on each activity and were all very tired by the end of the evening but had "an awesome time"!
Photos and report courtesy of 1st Digswell Guides
Efflorescence on the District Centre
Efflorescence is the "proper" term for the white on the brickwork. This is caused by the minerals and salts in the water and appears as wet bricks dry after construction. The following two pictures (taken in June and April) show how much the efflorescence on the front of the building has reduced over these two months.
These pictures also show just how much the garden has developed in this short space of time.
Efflorescence is the "proper" term for the white on the brickwork. This is caused by the minerals and salts in the water and appears as wet bricks dry after construction. The following two pictures (taken in June and April) show how much the efflorescence on the front of the building has reduced over these two months.
These pictures also show just how much the garden has developed in this short space of time.
How The Garden Is Growing
If you've been in Guessens Road recently you'll probably have noticed how well everything is growing. The beech hedging planted by Guides and Brownies (with adult help!) is sprouting out - there seems to be just one piece that needs replacing. The shrubs have all taken and the various other flowers and plants all seem to be doing well. A special thanks to those who have watered the garden during the drier spells.
If you've been in Guessens Road recently you'll probably have noticed how well everything is growing. The beech hedging planted by Guides and Brownies (with adult help!) is sprouting out - there seems to be just one piece that needs replacing. The shrubs have all taken and the various other flowers and plants all seem to be doing well. A special thanks to those who have watered the garden during the drier spells.
We Need More Leaders and Adult Helpers
What do adults in guiding do? Girlguiding isn't just for girls: Across the UK, more than 80,000 amazing volunteers contribute over ten million hours to guiding every year. In return, Girlguiding offers friendship, training and the opportunity to develop new skills.
There are many volunteer roles in guiding. Many volunteers give their time as Leaders or Assistant Leaders for guiding units (Rainbows, Brownies and Guides) and get to see girls enjoying events and activities that they have helped organise. Other volunteers take on administrative responsibilities, or help out with driving or maintenance on an occasional basis.
Like in many other areas, Girlguiding Guessens needs more leaders and adult volunteers. If you think you might like to join us in Guessens District please get in touch and find out more.
There are many volunteer roles in guiding. Many volunteers give their time as Leaders or Assistant Leaders for guiding units (Rainbows, Brownies and Guides) and get to see girls enjoying events and activities that they have helped organise. Other volunteers take on administrative responsibilities, or help out with driving or maintenance on an occasional basis.
Like in many other areas, Girlguiding Guessens needs more leaders and adult volunteers. If you think you might like to join us in Guessens District please get in touch and find out more.
Visitors to this Website
Since this website was started (just over 2 years ago) there have been 7131 visitors and 19734 page views! Of course, much of this activity was down to the "Raise the Roof" fundraising and no doubt many views were also to keep in touch with the building of the new District Centre.
(figures to end of May)
Since this website was started (just over 2 years ago) there have been 7131 visitors and 19734 page views! Of course, much of this activity was down to the "Raise the Roof" fundraising and no doubt many views were also to keep in touch with the building of the new District Centre.
(figures to end of May)
Units Start to Settle-In at the Centre
From the end of April the various Rainbow, Brownie and Guide units who used to meet in the old Hut have moved into their new home.
From the end of April the various Rainbow, Brownie and Guide units who used to meet in the old Hut have moved into their new home.
The A2 displays showing those who sponsored the new centre are now on display in the Lobby. (These replace the smaller temporary displays which were put up for the Open Day.)
Save The Children
The first letting of our new District Centre for community use was to Save The Children on Friday 6th May. The hall was packed with "happy quizzers", including a table of Guiders (and husbands). Our new kitchen was also "road tested" - although nothing was actually cooked.
The evening seemed to be very successful in raising funds for STC - and feedback about our Centre was very favourable.
The first letting of our new District Centre for community use was to Save The Children on Friday 6th May. The hall was packed with "happy quizzers", including a table of Guiders (and husbands). Our new kitchen was also "road tested" - although nothing was actually cooked.
The evening seemed to be very successful in raising funds for STC - and feedback about our Centre was very favourable.
1st Welwyn Rainbows
One of our new Rainbow units - 1st Welwyn Rainbows - has been selected as one of the Charities that will be supported by the Welwyn Festival this year - which is fantastic news. Make a note of the dates for the Festival Week - Friday 16th to Sunday 25th June, 2017! Come to the ever-popular Street Market from 9 a.m. till 12.30pm on Saturday 17th June. For further details of the Festival: Website: http://www.welwynfestival.org.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WelwynFestivalWeek Twitter: @welwynfestival |
4th May 2017
22 April 2017:
Open Day was a great success. From 1:30 to 4:30 the new District Centre buzzed as visitors flocked in to "inspect" the new building and its facilities.
Sue Rees and Jean Dossett hosted the event and greeted neighbours of the Centre, numerous Girlguiding colleagues, girls from the various sections and parents, those from the companies who built the Centre, the Mayor of the Borough Council Cllr Pat Mabbutt, and Girlguiding Hertfordshire County Commissioner Sue Beswick. Everyone was very impressed with the achievement, not least those for whom the Centre will now be their regular meeting place. Ladies of a certain age who had fond memories of their time using the old hut were delighted to meet old colleagues and share reminiscences.
Gallons of tea & coffee were served and plates of cake magically disappeared.
(There are pictures in Gallery.)
Open Day was a great success. From 1:30 to 4:30 the new District Centre buzzed as visitors flocked in to "inspect" the new building and its facilities.
Sue Rees and Jean Dossett hosted the event and greeted neighbours of the Centre, numerous Girlguiding colleagues, girls from the various sections and parents, those from the companies who built the Centre, the Mayor of the Borough Council Cllr Pat Mabbutt, and Girlguiding Hertfordshire County Commissioner Sue Beswick. Everyone was very impressed with the achievement, not least those for whom the Centre will now be their regular meeting place. Ladies of a certain age who had fond memories of their time using the old hut were delighted to meet old colleagues and share reminiscences.
Gallons of tea & coffee were served and plates of cake magically disappeared.
(There are pictures in Gallery.)
22 April 2017:
Congratulations to all of the Guessens District award recipients at the Girlguiding Hertfordshire annual awards on Friday 21st April - John Dossett (County Thanks Certificate), Jan North (County Good Service Certificate), Paula Hills (County Good Service Certificate), June Archer (30 Years Service Award) and Sue Rees (Anglia Brooch). The District is very grateful for all they have done for Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Young Leaders and Leaders over the years.
Congratulations to all of the Guessens District award recipients at the Girlguiding Hertfordshire annual awards on Friday 21st April - John Dossett (County Thanks Certificate), Jan North (County Good Service Certificate), Paula Hills (County Good Service Certificate), June Archer (30 Years Service Award) and Sue Rees (Anglia Brooch). The District is very grateful for all they have done for Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Young Leaders and Leaders over the years.
New Rainbow Units
A new Rainbow unit - 1st Welwyn Rainbows - has opened and meets on Wednesdays. Another new Rainbow unit - 1st Codicote - will open soon and will meet on Mondays.
A new Rainbow unit - 1st Welwyn Rainbows - has opened and meets on Wednesdays. Another new Rainbow unit - 1st Codicote - will open soon and will meet on Mondays.
15 April 2017:
This was an important day for Guessens District as it marked the occupation of the (new) District Centre. Many hands (and their vehicles) helped to bring back all of the materials which had been in store while the new Centre was being built.
Finishing touches also continued - to be ready for the Open Afternoon on 22 April.
This was an important day for Guessens District as it marked the occupation of the (new) District Centre. Many hands (and their vehicles) helped to bring back all of the materials which had been in store while the new Centre was being built.
Finishing touches also continued - to be ready for the Open Afternoon on 22 April.
6 April 2017:
An exciting day - our new District Centre is about to be handed over by the builders and there was a teach-in on how to use the various systems.
We are now ordering various bits of equipment (especially extra chairs, tables & notice boards) to get ready for our Open Afternoon on 22 April.
(See also District Centre, Building Progress - and Gallery.)
An exciting day - our new District Centre is about to be handed over by the builders and there was a teach-in on how to use the various systems.
We are now ordering various bits of equipment (especially extra chairs, tables & notice boards) to get ready for our Open Afternoon on 22 April.
(See also District Centre, Building Progress - and Gallery.)
District Centre - Garden Working Party (18 & 19 February 2017)
With the hard landscaping well underway it was time to do the soft landscaping. With favourable weather and girls, parents and leaders volunteering this weekend they helped to make a tremendous change to the kerbside view of the new Centre. Our builders had cleared the rubbish away and 10 cubic metres of top soil (quite a pile!) was delivered - this had to be wheel-barrowed across the area to level it out, trenches were dug for the new hedging, and some shrubs planted. Plenty of complimentary comments were made by passers-by, both about the new building and the gardening work in progress.
A big thank you to all those who turned up to help.
There are photos in Gallery under "Garden Working Party".
With the hard landscaping well underway it was time to do the soft landscaping. With favourable weather and girls, parents and leaders volunteering this weekend they helped to make a tremendous change to the kerbside view of the new Centre. Our builders had cleared the rubbish away and 10 cubic metres of top soil (quite a pile!) was delivered - this had to be wheel-barrowed across the area to level it out, trenches were dug for the new hedging, and some shrubs planted. Plenty of complimentary comments were made by passers-by, both about the new building and the gardening work in progress.
A big thank you to all those who turned up to help.
There are photos in Gallery under "Garden Working Party".
Quiz Night Report
Quiz Night, organised by 10th WGC Brownies, took place at Stanborough School on 27th January.
Matthew Buckley and Gary Fitzpatrick were the Quizmasters and, with a number of able helpers, put some 200 "quizzers" through their paces. The quiz, raffle and bar sales produced a profit of £2643; there was also a very generous personal donation of £1000 (for which we can claim Gift Aid); and together with support from two companies totalling £1250; a grand total of £5143 was raised!
A truly amazing result.
A big thank you to the organising team.
Matthew Buckley and Gary Fitzpatrick were the Quizmasters and, with a number of able helpers, put some 200 "quizzers" through their paces. The quiz, raffle and bar sales produced a profit of £2643; there was also a very generous personal donation of £1000 (for which we can claim Gift Aid); and together with support from two companies totalling £1250; a grand total of £5143 was raised!
A truly amazing result.
A big thank you to the organising team.
2 February 2017:
The Hedley Foundation have given a generous grant of £2000 towards equipping the new District Centre.
The Hedley Foundation have given a generous grant of £2000 towards equipping the new District Centre.
20 January 2017:
The Edith Murphy Foundation have very kindly donated £2000 to the fund for our new District Centre. This will be used to help finish the job!
The Edith Murphy Foundation have very kindly donated £2000 to the fund for our new District Centre. This will be used to help finish the job!
Hertfordshire Community Foundation have generously given a grant of £5000 which will be used towards equipping the kitchen with flooring, lighting & tiling, as well as decorating and generally finishing off the kitchen to a standard that it will be suitable for use by the girls of the local Girlguiding units and by others in the local community.
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Mayor and County Councillor Visit New District Centre (10th December)
On Saturday 10th December our Mayor, Cllr Pat Mabbott and Malcom Cowan, County Councillor, made a visit to the new Girlguiding Guessens District Centre being built in Guessens Road, WGC. They were welcomed by Sue Rees, District Commissioner, and Jean Dossett, Chair of the Rebuild Committee and were shown around. They also met with the Girlguiding Guessens District Trustees and a few of the Brownies and Guides who will use the centre when it is complete.
The new Centre replaces the Guide Hut which had been there for nearly 90 years and is being constructed by Lioncrest Homes. The roof is now on the building, and interior work is well underway. Jean said “Without the help of many residents, as well as numerous organisations, we could never have raised the money for this new Centre”. Although all of the money for the main building contract has been raised, the Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Leaders of Girlguiding Guessens still need to continue fund raising to fully fit-out and equip the building: Any individual or organisation able to assist should contact Jean in the first instance ([email protected] ).
The Mayor said she saw the new Centre as an important community asset and was pleased that both the Borough and County Councils had been able to contribute. Malcolm expressed his pleasure that such a modern well insulated & fully equipped building was replacing the old hut and that it would be used by many people in the area.
Sue Rees said that it was expected to complete the Centre in the first quarter of 2017 and for there to be an official opening in the Spring.
The new Centre replaces the Guide Hut which had been there for nearly 90 years and is being constructed by Lioncrest Homes. The roof is now on the building, and interior work is well underway. Jean said “Without the help of many residents, as well as numerous organisations, we could never have raised the money for this new Centre”. Although all of the money for the main building contract has been raised, the Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Leaders of Girlguiding Guessens still need to continue fund raising to fully fit-out and equip the building: Any individual or organisation able to assist should contact Jean in the first instance ([email protected] ).
The Mayor said she saw the new Centre as an important community asset and was pleased that both the Borough and County Councils had been able to contribute. Malcolm expressed his pleasure that such a modern well insulated & fully equipped building was replacing the old hut and that it would be used by many people in the area.
Sue Rees said that it was expected to complete the Centre in the first quarter of 2017 and for there to be an official opening in the Spring.
Kids on the Catwalk : 3rd October
Jenny Maskrey, 1st Digswell Guides
4th October 2016
4th October 2016
Polypipe Step In To Help
Polypipe, another company involved in the Building Better Communities competition, have generously agreed to provide products for the new building.
Jean Dossett (Chair of Hut Rebuild Committee)
31 August 2016
31 August 2016
Where Did It All Go?
Velux Make a Big Contribution
At the recent Jewson presentation I met Andrew Lumsden, Velux Marketing Manager, and he promised their assistance with our new building.
The good news today is that they are providing all of our new roof windows free of charge! This is very generous of them – and it will be saving us nearly £6000. Top marks to Velux.
Jean Dossett (Chair of Hut Rebuild Committee)
25 July
The good news today is that they are providing all of our new roof windows free of charge! This is very generous of them – and it will be saving us nearly £6000. Top marks to Velux.
Jean Dossett (Chair of Hut Rebuild Committee)
25 July
Jewson "Building Better Communities" Awards
Photo from Jewson: Jean and Margaret are, standing, 8th & 9th from the left.
Jewson held their national awards day on 4th July and we were invited to attend.
Thanks to our many supporters who voted for us, we had a good day: We were awarded £1000 and presented with a framed certificate.
We also made some good contacts in Jewson and Velux who have offered to help us with materials as we proceed.
Jean Dossett (Chair of Hut Rebuild Committee)
Margaret Breese (District Treasurer)
4 July
Thanks to our many supporters who voted for us, we had a good day: We were awarded £1000 and presented with a framed certificate.
We also made some good contacts in Jewson and Velux who have offered to help us with materials as we proceed.
Jean Dossett (Chair of Hut Rebuild Committee)
Margaret Breese (District Treasurer)
4 July
Open Garden & Coffee Morning a Great Success
On Friday 20th May 2016 the weather was, fortunately, very pleasant. In Roundwood Drive WGC, Heather and Marion hosted a very successful "Open Garden". Almost 100 guests were welcomed and, from donations, cake & plant sales, a raffle and "Sponsor a Tile", over £1800 was collected for the "Raise the Roof" fund.
See photos in "Gallery".
90 years ago: From the local papers
Guiding in WGC – The Beginning
(Quotes from the Welwyn Garden City News)
16th April 1926
GIRL GUIDES
For the purpose of forming a branch of the Girl Guides Association in Welwyn Garden City a meeting is to be held this afternoon at 2:30pm at Alpha School, Elmwood, to which a cordial invitation is extended to all women interested.
The original can be viewed in the Library at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City.
23rd April 1926
Girl Guides and Brownies
On Friday last at Alpha School a meeting was held to form a local Association of the Girl Guide movement. Lady Chambers was in the Chair and consented to become President of the Association. The meeting was addressed by Mrs Joan Fryer, Divisional Commissioner for Mid-Herts. One company of Guides has been already formed for girls between 11 and 16 years of age, and a company of Brownies for girls between 8 and 11 years is shortly to be started. The Hon Secretary, Mrs Heath Gray of 16 Dellcott Close will gladly furnish particulars to those interested.
The original can be viewed in the Library at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City.
16th April 1929
The Welwyn Times dated 11 April 1929 carries a large article, with a photograph, about the opening of the Guide Hut in Guessens Road. The cost was “about £380” and at the date of opening £166 had been raised towards this.
(Quotes from the Welwyn Garden City News)
16th April 1926
GIRL GUIDES
For the purpose of forming a branch of the Girl Guides Association in Welwyn Garden City a meeting is to be held this afternoon at 2:30pm at Alpha School, Elmwood, to which a cordial invitation is extended to all women interested.
The original can be viewed in the Library at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City.
23rd April 1926
Girl Guides and Brownies
On Friday last at Alpha School a meeting was held to form a local Association of the Girl Guide movement. Lady Chambers was in the Chair and consented to become President of the Association. The meeting was addressed by Mrs Joan Fryer, Divisional Commissioner for Mid-Herts. One company of Guides has been already formed for girls between 11 and 16 years of age, and a company of Brownies for girls between 8 and 11 years is shortly to be started. The Hon Secretary, Mrs Heath Gray of 16 Dellcott Close will gladly furnish particulars to those interested.
The original can be viewed in the Library at Campus West, Welwyn Garden City.
16th April 1929
The Welwyn Times dated 11 April 1929 carries a large article, with a photograph, about the opening of the Guide Hut in Guessens Road. The cost was “about £380” and at the date of opening £166 had been raised towards this.
Tea party at Guessens Road Guide Hut: 20th March 2016
After nearly 90 years of use, not just for Guiding but all sorts of things (even as a temporary school room while Templewood School was being built), Girlguiding WGC Guessens District Headquarters (The "Hut") is about to close - to make way for the building of the new District Centre.
On 20th March many of those who used the hut met for a "farewell" tea party. Some remembered the 1930's, others were current members of Rainbows, Brownies or Guides. Sue Rees, District Commissioner welcomed everyone and along with the current leaders ensured the event was a brilliant success. There was no shortage of cakes! - with supplies coming from leaders as well as donations from Morrison's and The Co-op Shoplands.
With planning permission just renewed, diagrams for the new building were displayed - and an "opening" party suggested.
As further funds are still needed to build and equip the centre, "Sponsor a Tile" was officially launched. Names of sponsors will shortly be added to the record.
A big thank you to those who came and shared their memories.
A few photos (with more in "Gallery") -
After nearly 90 years of use, not just for Guiding but all sorts of things (even as a temporary school room while Templewood School was being built), Girlguiding WGC Guessens District Headquarters (The "Hut") is about to close - to make way for the building of the new District Centre.
On 20th March many of those who used the hut met for a "farewell" tea party. Some remembered the 1930's, others were current members of Rainbows, Brownies or Guides. Sue Rees, District Commissioner welcomed everyone and along with the current leaders ensured the event was a brilliant success. There was no shortage of cakes! - with supplies coming from leaders as well as donations from Morrison's and The Co-op Shoplands.
With planning permission just renewed, diagrams for the new building were displayed - and an "opening" party suggested.
As further funds are still needed to build and equip the centre, "Sponsor a Tile" was officially launched. Names of sponsors will shortly be added to the record.
A big thank you to those who came and shared their memories.
A few photos (with more in "Gallery") -
Girlguiding Guessens Registered Charity number 1155795