A North Ayrshire girlguiding volunteer has been honoured for her work supporting girls and young women with the prestigious 60 Year Long Service Award.

Elizabeth Howie, 80, county vice president and Trefoil member, was presented with a specially-designed brooch in honour of her inspirational efforts by county commissioner, Louise Crichton, at a recent ceremony at Ayrshire North’s Activity Centre.

She first became involved in Girlguiding when she volunteered in the Saltcoats Brownie Unit in 1963. She has volunteered in different roles ever since – providing amazing opportunities for girls and young women.

Her highlights during her time with Girlguiding Scotland includes travelling to a wide range of countries, including India, Nepal, New Zealand and, this year, Switzerland.

As an avid walker/hiker, Elizabeth was the county’s walking advisor for 10 years and also became the Scottish advisor for a number of years. She continues to lead walks for friends, trefoil, and the odd guiding ramble.

She remains very active in Girlguiding as one of the county vice presidents, member of the Trefoil Guild, and works in preserving the long history of guiding within the Ayrshire North county.

For over 100 years guiding has made many positive differences in communities right across Scotland. The charity’s volunteers are committed to deliver guiding in new and innovative ways so that they can continue to keep connected and empower girls and young women.

By giving just a couple of hours a week, volunteers can help to empower local girls and young women enjoy a wide range of exciting activities, gain new skills, make new friends and have fun.

As a volunteer with Girlguiding Scotland you’ll be part of the leading charity for girls and young women in Scotland offering around 45,000 young members age 5-25 the chance to try new experiences, grow in confidence realise their potential and have fun.

If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer or know a girl who would like to join guiding, visit www.girlguidingscotland.org.uk/get-involved/ to find out how to get involved.