We always welcome a Letter to The Editor to share with our readers, this one from VB friend and contributor, Suzanne Whitewood. Ed
In 1912 some intrepid girls from the Ventnor area formed the Island’s first Girl Guide Company following on from the start of the national movement in 1910.
1st Ventnor is still a very active unit and the present members and their leaders are planning celebrations to commemorate the 100 years.
In June a special evening will be arranged and this letter is an invitation to anyone who has been a member or leader with the Guides, or indeed Brownies, in Ventnor.
1st, 2nd and 3rd Girl Guides welcome
In 1918 a second company was formed (2nd Ventnor) mainly for those living in Upper Ventnor and later still 3rd. Ventnor for the girls resident in St. Catherine’s Home now St. Catherine’s School.
Anyone who has belonged to those groups will also be welcomed to the event.
Well known Ventnor Girl Guides
Over the years a number of well known Ventnor residents were members of Girlguiding including: Lord Jellicoe’s daughters from St. Lawrence Hall, Marjorie Middleton of Mirables, Rene Howe and Cllr. Dawn Cousins.
In the 1960’s members of 1st Ventnor won an all Island Camping competition and the photograph below shows the company in 1964.
I am able to name most of those in the photograph and I know a number still reside on the Island.
Please contact me if you would like to attend the event or have any memorabilia regarding Girlguiding.
From, Suzanne Whitewood (nee Lambert) [email protected]
