BROWNIE leader Pam Howard has retired after 37 years of Girl Guiding to take on a prestigous honorary role.

The leader, 65, known as Barn Owl, retired on Monday from the 2nd Carterton Brownies after looking after generations of girls in the town.

She has now been made the District President, where she will be called upon to help with events. Retirement is compulsory for unit leaders at the age of 65.

Mrs Howard, of Lime Tree Close, Carterton, was presented with a cake and in return gave her unit a copy of the original Brownie promise that she made 37 years ago.

She said: “I have had girls attend my Brownie pack, then their daughters and then their granddaughters. When I walk down the street I see so many of these past Brownies and it is always a pleasure to stop and hear their news.

“The friendships that I have made are just far too many to count and the fun and enjoyment that I have had is just immeasurable.

“Although it is sad that I have to leave uniformed Guiding I do look forward to serving the district in my new role as District President.”

A mother-of-four, Mrs Howard joined the 1st Carterton Brownies, which met in St John’s Church, in 1973, after being introduced to Girl Guiding by a friend she met at ante-natal classes.

A year later, she became Brown Owl at 2nd Carterton Brownies, of which her seven-year-old granddaughter is now a member.

The grandmother has been made District Commissioner twice, amounting to 14 years in total.

She said: “It has been very rewarding to see girls develop in independence and confidence and have so much fun. We have been ice skating, swimming, bowling, to pantomimes, pack holidays to name but a few of our adventures.”

During the unit’s ‘Thinking’ Day celebrations in February, Mrs Howard was presented with the Oxfordshire Good Service Award.

She was also given a special thank you and framed photograph from Group Captain Dom Stamp, of RAF Brize Norton, at the Carterton District Decades Party last Sunday, which was a part of celebrating the 100th birthday of Girl Guiding in the UK.

Mrs Howard added: “I pay special tribute to Ann Jones, Carol Hadgraft, Barbara Fall and Shirley Wakefield who have given me so much support over the years as assistants and unit helpers.

“I wish Vikki Brown, Michelle Fletcher, Beverley Hemming and Anita Calder success, fun and happiness as they take over the running of the unit. Ladies, enjoy as much as I have.

“I would urge ladies and young women looking for a rewarding hobby to join Girl Guiding. You can’t beat it.”