THE circus added a touch of magic to celebrations in Droylsden for a special birthday for the Brownies movement.
Over 75 Brownies and 20 volunteers from the Ashton Division of Girlguiding came together for a circus skills party.
It was to mark the 110th birthday of Brownies – which were originally called Rosebuds, first organised by Lord Baden-Powell in 1914 to complete the range of age groups for girls in Scouting.
Last Sunday afternoon (November 24), expert performers from Circus Sensible wowed with magic tricks, before the Brownies tried their hand at juggling, spinning plates, twirling Chinese Diabolo, walking on mini stilts, and even balancing peacock feathers on their fingertips!
Nicola Horsfield, Ashton Division Commissioner (Designate), said: “It was fantastic to see so many of our Brownies and leaders having fun and marking 110 years of friendship and adventure.
“Ever since 1914, Brownies has offered young girls somewhere safe and relaxed to be themselves, make friends, and try new things, week after week. We’re extremely grateful to Circus Sensible for wowing the girls, and to 250th Manchester Scouts for providing our venue.”
At the end of the party, the Brownies received commemorative badges and leader Colline Holness was presented with a special certificate to thank her for 20 years of voluntary service.
There are currently spaces for girls at Rainbows (ages 4-7), Brownies (ages 7-10), Guides (ages 10-14) and Rangers (ages 14-18) across Ashton Division – covering Ashton-under-Lyne, Audenshaw and Droylsden – plus other parts of Tameside.
Girlguiding is also on the lookout for casual or regular volunteers, all of whom can expect to receive free training and mentoring support.
Anyone interested in registering their child or becoming a helper is encouraged to visit https://www.girlguiding.org.uk/information-for-parents/register-a-child/