A Manx woman has been awarded for her ’outstanding contribution’ to Girlguiding.

Karen Walker, county commissioner for Girlguiding Isle of Man, has been presented with the Laurel award, one of Girlguiding’s highest honours.

To be nominated for this award, Girlguiding members are required to have held a variety of senior roles in Girlguiding, made a significant contribution to supporting and developing Guiding and be respected by their Guiding peers as a positive role model.

Ms Walker was appointed as assistant island commissioner in 2015 and island county commissioner in 2016.

The role should have ceased in October 2021 but Karen offered to extend her appointment due to the pandemic.

Prior to and alongside her island commissioner role she has held several other roles in Guiding since becoming an adult leader in 1988, all whilst continuing with her commitment as guider in charge of two Rainbow units.

Ms Walker said: ’I am blown away to receive this award and I thank those who nominated me. Girlguiding is all about empowering girls to be the best they can be and providing them with a range of opportunities to help them to flourish. This is why I do it - it’s all about the girls - and I love every minute of it!’

She was presented the award by Girlguiding North West region’s chief commissioner, Julie Walton, who was visiting the island for the ’It’s About You’ annual awards ceremony.

Ms Walker said: ’I am immensely proud to present this award to Karen - and to be here in person makes it even more special.

’She is hugely loved and massively respected by all members of Girlguiding Isle of Man - from the age of four upwards - and I cannot think of anyone more worthy of this award.

’I thank Karen for her endless dedication, hard work and enthusiasm and for everything she has given to Girlguiding over the years.’

Held at Douglas Golf Club, the annual Girlguiding awards ceremony hosted adult Rainbow, Brownie and Guide leaders, unit helpers and Trefoil Guild members and was opened by guest speaker MHK Ann Corlett.

A total of 42 awards were presented during the ceremony, including a 30-year service badge for Anne Bowman of Sixth Douglas Guides, and the Achievement Cup for Guides went to Gabrielle Richards and Abigail Moore for demonstrating ’strength, resilience and friendship through challenging times’.

Four five-year service, four 10-year service and three 20-year service awards were all presented.