A Brownie pack has bid a fond farewell to their Brown Owl as she stepped down from her post after 34 years.

Maggie Smallwood, who lead the group of 24 girls at St Michael’s School since 1980, is not flying the nest just yet though, having taken on the role of Wise Owl instead.

Mrs Smallwood started her Girlguiding career in 1973 in Gidea Park - dedicating a total of 41 years to the organisation so far.

The pack threw Mrs Smallwood a party on 22 September and invited Brownies past and present to celebrate.

Mrs Smallwood said: “There are too many people to thank - I have made so many long standing friends through girl guiding.

“What makes Brownies so special is that the friends you make in guiding, you make for life."