ELLIE Hall, a young leader with 1st Marden Guides has been awarded the Guiding Star Award, which is a Girlguiding award given to girls who have made a significant contribution to guiding whilst showing courage and determination in challenging circumstances.

She was presented with her award by Sandy Kinnersley, deputy chief commissioner for Girlguiding Midlands Region, at a party, attended by the Girlguiding Herefordshire County Commissioners, together with her family and friends, and past and present members of Marden Guides and Vennwood Senior Section and their families, who all came to congratulate her.

Ellie, 17, is a member of Vennwood Senior Section. She joined Girlguiding as a Brownie. Since 2010, she has been an active member of 1st Marden Guides, participating in camps, outings and activities, usually appearing as the prince in the guides' annual pantomime. Since 2015 she has been a young leader with 1st Marden Guides.

Guide leader Alison Thomas said 'Ellie is a very inspiring young woman, always cheerful and helpful, and has displayed courage and determination all her life, especially in the past year. I have only known her for four years, but she is the girl who has made most impact on me in my guiding career. I am pleased that she has recognition for her continuing achievements in Guiding and outside, and her courage at facing a very difficult time. She is a very valued member of our unit.'

Girlguiding is the UK's leading charity for girls and young women. We build girls confidence and raise their aspirations. We give them the chance to discover their full potential and encourage them to be a powerful force for good. We give them a space to have fun. To find out more, visit girlguiding.org.uk