A long-standing Brown Owl has been presented with a Laurel award in recognition of her services to Girlguiding.

Janet Hill, of the 1st Carshalton Brownies, has ran the unit for 40 years and is County Secretary.

Christine Wicks, County Commissioner for Girlguiding in Greater London West, presented the award to Hill. She said: “Janet is always so positive, encouraging and supportive of Guiding – she freely gives time to everyone.”

She also told the Brownies: “Your Brown Owl is a special person – only a small number of people in the whole of the country have received the award this year.”