Jennifer is an inspiration to generation of young girls

A GUIDE leader from Birchwood is set to make her mark on the next generation after earning the movement’s highest accolade.

Jennifer Lyons, of Strawberry Close, has been honoured with the Queen’s Guide Award after three years of dedication.

It is a feat achieved by only a handful of Girlguiding’s half a million members each year.

Jennifer is a leader with 1st Oakwood Brownies, 1st Oakwood Guides and 1st Moss Edge Senior Section.

The Queen’s Guide Award allows young women, aged between 16 and 25, to develop leadership skills.

Jennifer led the senior section on an exploration of York where she overcame her fear of heights to climb York Minster tower and learned first aid for a Brownie camping weekend The 26-year-old was also photographer for Girlguiding’s centenary celebrations and organised an outdoor sleepover for her Guides at the Golden Square to raise awareness of youth homelessness.

Jennifer received her award from Baroness Alicia Kennedy and Chief Guide Gill Slocombe at the House of Lords.

The Fujitsu employee said: “When I first looked at the Queen’s Guide Award I thought I wouldn’t manage it, but I surprised myself with each step I finished.

“I worked with so many groups and people in different situations.”

Gill said: “Girlguiding’s research shows most girls aspire to take on leadership roles in their careers, but they need to see more inspiring women at the top to give them the confidence to do so. The Queen’s Guide is all about showing young women this is possible.”