It was not the only new name that members of the Guide Movement in Pembrokeshire had to celebrate over the last year, although that was pretty special.

We are no longer Pembrokeshire Guide Association, but Girlguiding Pembrokeshire, a name which we hope will reflect our aim of combining the traditional values of Guiding with a modern go-getting style.

But, in this Jubilee year, there was much more to celebrate, not least that we have over 1,000 members in Pembrokeshire, and nearly all of them took part in one aspect of our Jubilee fun.

It began in May, when over 600 Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Senior Section members paraded through the streets of Tenby to St. Mary's Church for a service of thanksgiving. Girls from every section took part in the service, which was full of happiness and joy, and will long be remembered by those who were there.

Next it was the turn of the Rainbows, who gathered together at Scolton for some 'Royal' fun, whether it was throwing golden wellies, searching for the golden bear's palace, or just enjoying the picnic. All had a wonderful time, even if some were not too sure what they were celebrating!

Later in June came the Brownies and Guides' turn with a Fun Afternoon at Withybush Showground. Over 300 girls, resplendent in their gowns, some with home-made chariots, revelled in an afternoon of line-dancing, parachute games and a giant disco. Our ingenious miniature version of the London Eye was on hand for everyone to throw money in. The money was later sent to enable a party of Russian Guides from Siberia to visit Wales and take back ideas and support to their newly formed organisation.

But the highlight had to be the visit of Pembrokeshire's very own Queen, complete with Ladies in Waiting. Her Majesty, elegantly attired in white silk, ermine-trimmed robe, and tiara, was crowned with a magnificent crown (kindly lent by Mrs. Smith, of Tenby) by County Commissioner, Mrs. Nicole Evans, and, while Her Majesty may have borne an uncanny resemblance to County President, Mrs. Kathleen Phillips, at least one little Brownie went home convinced she had seen the Queen.

As can be imagined, these events did not 'just happen', and a great deal of hard work went into the planning and manning, to give the girls a Jubilee year they will always remember. This was not organised by a special committee, but by a band of women, young and old, who work voluntarily, throughout every year to ensure that the Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Senior Section members of Pembrokeshire have a movement that is relevant to, and conscious of, their ever-changing needs and interests. Not an easy task, but one which could become easier with more help.

This month is 'Reach out and Recruit' month, when we hope we can inspire you to come and join us. It is not only the girls who gain from Guiding. No-one expects anyone just to walk in, and know what to do. Our training schemes have gained a Quality Award, can be worked through at a pace to suit the individual, and can be used to gain an NVQ.

So many of the skills that you learn as a leader or a helper are transferable into day-to-day life, and look good on your CV if you are trying to re-enter the job market. But apart from that, you make new friends, have a lot of fun, and have the satisfying realisation that you are actually 'making a difference'. Whether you can offer regular, or just occasional help, we want to hear from you now.

In Tenby we are particularly short of leaders. We have waiting lists of girls, but cannot welcome them all without adequate adult support. Many of you were members yourselves, and have fond memories of Gang Shows, camps, and crazy evenings on Waterwynch melting marshmallows on reluctant fires. Some of you even travelled abroad thanks to Guiding. Surely you want your daughters to have the same opportunities. Guiders cannot go on for ever, but new leaders are needed now; first to help, then, when they feel ready, possibly to take over. Only if that happens now will all units be able to carry on.

Don't wait for someone else to volunteer, come and join us now.

Either contact Guiders or 'phone Nicole Evans (01834) 844256. Help us continue to make Girlguiding Pembrokeshire vibrant, relevant and fun!