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They then pestered me to come and volunteer with the group and after the third time of asking I finally gave in!” Laurie was soon heavily involved with the movement once more and spent most of her spare time volun- teering with the Sea Rangers and 1st Dartmouth Guides (this was how she met her late husband Clive). Since being a Trefoil Guild mem- ber she has held positions at County and Regional level including organ- ising activities and International events which she really enjoyed. “I went on trips to Norway, Poland, Switzerland, Austria and India. I really enjoyed India – Trefoil mem- bers spent time helping abused mothers seeking refuge and we worked with children suffering from leprosy. It was a big eye-opener.” Laurie says she didn’t mind the spicy food as she enjoys Indian cooking. She hopes she can convince the Dartmouth Trefoil ladies to travel a little more but some members, being over 75 years, worry about their health when going abroad


so for now they will enjoy trips in and around Devon. “I still hope for a few more adventures!” Laurie reveals. “I’m heading to Switzerland next year with the Guides. There is a World Association of Girl Guides house based in the mountains. I’ve been a few times. There are winter sports like skiing in the colder months and hiking and flower trials in the summer. There’s an outdoor


“I still hope for a few more adventures!”


pool but it’s not for the faint hearted as it’s mountain water and very cold! I enjoy spending time with the young people even if I don’t un- derstand everything they’re talking about! I remember when I first got my new mobile, I didn’t understand how it worked. They were so kind and helped me work it all out even if they did laugh a little!!” Laurie says the Girl Guiding


organisation in all its forms keeps her young at heart and she wouldn’t change it for the world. “It’s been such a big part of my life for so long now. There’s always something new to learn.” She says the Dartmouth branch, which was formed in 1957, is mainly about the three f’s – food, fun and friendship. They meet every third Tuesday in St Clement’s Church Hall and whether it’s a talk, demonstration or day trip there’s al- ways a lot of laughing and snacking involved. “We even have biscuits at the committee meetings - chocolate are the favourite!” Even though the Guild is open to men, none have been brave enough to join the ladies here in Dartmouth. They are hopeful one will be tempt- ed at some point and that other men will follow suit. “We don’t bite! I could never encourage my husband to join; no matter how hard I tried! We are a great group of ladies and have a lot of fun.” If you’d like to join (male or female) ring Laurie Pearson on 01803 832955 •


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