EXCITED GIRLS from a Thornbury Rainbows group enjoyed a visit from local police officers at their meeting last week.

The girls, from 1st Thornbury Rainbows, aged from five to seven, tried on police helmets and caps as well as their protective clothing and finding out all about the equipment that they use.

They also found out what it was like to be ‘behind bars’ in the police van that parked outside their meeting place.

The group’s leader-in-training, Danielle McIver, said: “The visit from the police was a great chance for the girls to learn about the role of the police in their community and get some hints and tips on being safe. They were also able to practice calling the emergency services and requesting the police.”

“All the girls told me how much they enjoyed themselves and how exciting it was.”

Opportunities like this are just part of the range of activities open to girls and young women through Girlguiding, which gives them their own space to grow in confidence, raise their aspirations and have fun.

Girlguiding Severnvale Division is looking for volunteers to give time to support their groups. Girlguiding has an ongoing campaign to seek out more adult members.

Danielle added: “Volunteering with Girlguiding gives me a huge sense of achievement when I think of how much the Rainbows have grown in confidence in the time I’ve known them.”

“I have also become more confident and the skills and experiences I have gained through Girlguiding have really helped me in my university application to be a primary school teacher.”

For further information contact Girlguiding on 0800 1 69 59 01 or visit www.girlguiding.org.uk.