WITH 60 years under her brownie sash, Anne Orme will leave the 36th Warrington St John’s Brownies with a host of memories that she will never forget.

The 78-year-old mum, who lives in Callands, said a fond farewell to fellow leaders, brownies and their parents as she marked her 60-year milestone in guiding.

She said: "I first joined when I was 11 and I was 18 when I became a tawny owl.

"I have been involved all those years but when I turned 60 I had to come out of uniform so Gaynor Connor took over as brown owl.

"I wanted to help her settle in and show her the ropes but I just kept coming."

Since Gaynor took over in 1997, Anne was been known as wise owl – a fitting name for the former secretary of Mersey White Lead company on Sankey Bridges who has clocked up more than half a century of experience.

The popular brownie leader has also held many roles within guiding including commissioner and treasurer at Guide HQ in Loushers Lane. 

Her troupe always played an important part in her life – even forming a guard of honour of brownies and guides at her wedding to Ray Orme in 1961.

She has also played a vital role in securing a home for the group which originally met at St John's Church in Grosvenor Avenue in Bruche before relocating to a temporary home at The Scout Hut on Vale Owen Road.

The unit has now moved to St Margaret's Smile Centre on Sandy Lane in Orford.

But despite retiring from the group, she will continue with her work in The Trefoil Guild – a more senior section of guiding.

Current brown owl Gaynor said: "This is such a milestone in guiding within Warrington that we as a unit think Anne deserves recognition for her loyalty and commitment to the Brownies who have passed through the unit over the 60 years."

Fellow leaders and 21 brownies gathered for a barbecue and presentation in her honour where she was given a stone bird bath and celebration cake.

To join the brownie group call 07841192304.