A YOUNG Appleton woman has notched her place in the Girl Guide record books by becoming the youngest leader in the country at just 16!

Elizabeth Cole, a member of the Rainbows at Appleton District Guides, was presented with her Guiding honours at Appleton's recent annual general meeting.

Chris Cole, Elizabeth's mother, said: "She's very proud as it's quite something to achieve this honour. She's been with the movement from an early age and will hopefully carry on for many years."

Peace campaigner Colin Parry was invited to the meeting, at Whitley Village Hall, as a guest speaker, in his capacity as ambassador to the Guide Association.

Mr Parry spoke about his initial surprise upon being asked to be an ambassador last year, and how he later realised that the Guides' peace and international friendship work closely mirrored the aims of Warrington's Peace Centre.

Mr Parry explained the centre's work to the large gathering, which included members of the Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and senior section, along with their parents.

The Appleton district voted to donate £63, the proceeds of a raffle, to the Peace Centre, and is set to establish more links with the centre soon.

The district is currently asking for volunteers for all sections, from Rainbows through to Guides, to avoid units being closed. If you are interested, call Chris on 861807 or Sally on 604114.