Historic Girlguiding Activity Centre saved by players of the People's Postcode Lottery

The new year has got off to a bright start for Girlguiding activity centre Waddow Hall, after receiving funding to restore its roof to its former glory, thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery. 

Thanks to the support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery, repairs have been undertaken, ensuring Waddow Hall can continue bringing the fun and adventure of guiding for years to come.

To celebrate and acknowledge the funding, on 15 January 2022, local Girlguiding unit 2nd Whalley Brownies and Guides cut the ribbon to reopen the hall unveiling a plaque to mark the occasion.

There to celebrate the reopening, Guide Dulcie, 13-years-old, said: “I’m so happy Waddow Hall has reponed. I love when I go camping here with my unit and especially going on crate stack– it’s so much fun!” 

Guide Apryl, 10-years-old, said: “I love trying out all the different activities at Waddow Hall when we visit. Grass sledging and the cave are my favourites. Thank you to the players of the People’s Postcode Lottery for helping reopen my favourite place to explore!” 

Laura Chow, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery at People’s Postcode Lottery said: “We’re so pleased to have been able to support Waddow Hall in its renovations and get Waddow Hall back open to its fullest capacity. Spending time outdoors has been well recognised for its importance in supporting wellbeing and all young people deserve some fun and adventure after such a challenging time.” 

Luke Gaskill, Centre Manager at Waddow Hall said: “It’s so fantastic to finally be able to reopen our doors to the hall. The beauty of Waddow Hall is being able to create amazing memories for all those that visit here. After closures due to the pandemic and repairs, I’m so excited to welcome back guests. A big thank you to the players of People’s Postcode Lottery for making this possible.” 

Waddow Hall is one of five Girlguiding activity centres providing thousands of girls and young women every year with the opportunity to have fun and adventure through the many outdoor activities on offer. From camping, bush craft, abseiling, climbing, kayaking and archery, there is something for every girl to experience and gain new skills. 

The 17^th century manor house is set in 180 acres of beautiful parkland overlooking the River Ribble. The site has a rich and interesting history prior to being bought by Girlguiding in 1927; it was built by the Tempest family during the Tudor period and served as an isolation hospital for children during the Second World War.  

ENDS 

Notes to Editors  

For further information, image and interview requests please contact the Girlguiding press office on [email protected] or call 0207 592 1733. 

Girlguiding activity centres also welcome all schools and youth groups to its centres. With over 45 activities to choose from, a trip to one of the Girlguiding centres provides the opportunity for adventures that aren’t possible in a hall or classroom. Children of all ages and abilities develop new skills in a unique environment as they increase their confidence, change their perspective by broadening their horizons, develop better team working and communication skills, and improve health and fitness.

To book an adventure at Waddow Hall email [email protected] or call 01200 423186 or visit girlguidingactivitycentres.org.uk/centre/waddow-hall

About Girlguiding   

Girlguiding is the leading charity for girls and young women in the UK, with nearly a third of a million members. With over 25,000 groups meeting weekly, powered by over 80,000 volunteers, we’re active in every part of the UK offering girls and young women a space where they can be themselves, have fun, build brilliant friendships, gain valuable life skills and make a positive difference in their communities. We build girls’ confidence and raise their aspirations. We give them the chance to discover their full potential and encourage them to be a powerful force for good. We run Rainbows (5–7 years (4-7 in Ulster)), Brownies (7–10 years), Guides (10–14 years) and Rangers (14–18 years) with a youth membership of 240,000. Registered Charity No 306016. www.girlguiding.org.uk 

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