Rustington Brownie leader’s award shock

Michelle Quiggan, 45, leader of the 2nd Rustington Brownies’ unit, said she was “blown away” after she received the coveted crystal rose bowl award for her years of exceptional service.

The modest mum of two, of Norfolk Road, Littlehampton, said she had never expected to have been nominated for the award, which pays tribute to the Arun division’s most dedicated, adult volunteers.

She said: “I was absolutely blown away. I didn’t see it coming at all.

“Being involved with Girlguiding is hugely rewarding, whether enjoying activities with the girls and helping develop their confidence and potential, or by volunteering in some other way, like I do with promoting Girlguiding locally.

“To receive this award means a great deal to me, especially when I look at the names of all the inspirational past recipients engraved upon it – particularly that of my leader when I was a Brownie.”

During her youth, Michelle trained as a Brownie, Ranger and Guide. She took a break for about 20 years, before her youngest daughter, enticed her back into the pack, seven years ago.

She will now have her name inscribed on the bowl alongside former winners, which included the very Brownie leader who trained her, while she studied as a girl at Rustington’s former West Preston Manor Preparatory School, in Pigeonhouse Lane.