GIRLGUIDING units in Wellington, Milverton and Wiveliscombe desperately need more adult help.

The situation at 1st Wiveliscombe Guides, set to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2019, is particularly serious as leaders Janet ‘Robin’ Shackleton and Jane ‘Batman’ Hewitt are stepping down in July due to other pressing commitments.

The unit is thriving, with a waiting list – and a new third leader is prepared to take over but only if one or two more adults commit to helping each week.

Janet, who took over the unit in 2006 when it was facing closure, said: “I’ve loved running guides despite never having been involved in my youth.

“Highlights of the past 12 years include trying all sorts of activities I’d never have dreamed of such as high ropes, dragon boating, lots of campfires and laughter, making new friends from different walks of life and seeing the girls grow in confidence and simply having fun together.”

Jane, who joined her nine years ago, had been a guide as a youngster and a leader for several years in the 1980s. She said: “Girlguiding had changed hugely since my earlier involvement and continues to change so that it is always relevant to the girls of today.

“Like Janet, I’ve loved the opportunities and laughter, particularly zorbing down a slope at Girlguiding’s Wellies & Wristbands festival, kayaking on the River Tone and at Weymouth, attending The Big Gig pop concert – wearing earplugs – and even visiting world centre Sangam, India, last year.

“Sadly, for Janet as a busy GP and part-time farmer, and for me with growing family and other commitments, the time has come to hand over the reins. We both intend to stay involved and occasionally help units in our division when needed.”

Anyone who would like to try out helping out at 1st Wiveliscombe Guides for a few weeks is asked to contact Jane Hewitt on 01823 401154. No previous experience or membership of girlguiding is necessary. For lots of information about girlguiding and volunteering visit www.girlguiding.org.uk­