29/05/2026
Celebrations for Sally Funnell's 40 years of volunteering with 8th Rickmansworth Brownies π
This was a particularly special cake to make... as as all three of my daughters were Sally's Brownies, and I still volunteer alongside her as Dusky Owl π¦
Sally was so surprised when I secretly organised for all the parents to turn up early in her honour at the end of a recent Brownie meeting, along with the district commissioner. Celebrations included speeches and thank you cards made by the girls... and of course a piece of cake for everyone!
Sally was an 8th Rickmansworth Brownie herself, and returned as a young leader as soon as she was old enough. On finishing Uni she was invited back as an adult leader, became Snowy Owl... and has been Snowy ever since!
'I have many wonderful memories of my time in guiding - from attending Thinking Day celebrations in Westminster Abbey as a Brownie, to setting off on Guide Camp in the back of a removal truck. I also sang on a recording (in the days of cassette tapes!) of guiding songs at Maida Vale studios.
Iβve seen a number of changes to the uniform and programme. But guiding continues to help girls develop skills like teamwork, independence, leadership, creativity and empathy. They grow in confidence. There's something for everyone!
Iβve worked alongside some wonderful adults too. Weβre a real team!β