Almost 600 Girlguiding members volunteer for Queen's funeral

Almost 600 members of Girlguiding, the UK’s leading charity for girls and young women, have volunteered to act as ‘Wayfinders’ to support members of the public at sites across central London on Sunday 18^th September and Monday 19^th September, the day of the HM The Queen’s funeral.

Maddie, Girlguiding Advocate from Cheltenham, said: “I’m honoured to be involved in such an historic event and to have the opportunity to play a part in the funeral of our Patron. The Queen was such a strong woman and a great role model to all our girls and young women. Being able to assist people who are paying their last respects, while representing Girlguiding, is an honour. When I did my promise, I promised to serve my Queen and I feel that this is the perfect way to keep my promise until the very end.”

Emma, Brownie, Guide and Ranger leader from Lancashire, said: “I always feel proud to be a member of Girlguiding, but even more so this past week. The way in which our community of volunteers has come together to support such a poignant event is incredible and speaks volumes to how proud our members were to call the Queen our patron. As a Queen's Guide, especially, it will be an unforgettable privilege to serve my Queen one final time this weekend.”

The Queen had a long-standing personal history with Girlguiding first joining as a Guide in 1937, at 11 years old alongside her 7-year-old sister, Princess Margaret as a Brownie. As a member of the 1st Buckingham Palace Guides, Princess Elizabeth took part in camping trips and earnt badges in swimming, first aid, interpreting and horse riding. 

In 1953, the year after she succeeded to the throne, HM The Queen became Joint Patron for Girlguiding with Queen Elizabeth (The Queen Mother). Throughout her life the Queen embodied the spirit of guiding. Every day she kept her promise to do her best, live according to her beliefs, and to serve people