We’re delighted to celebrate our fantastic volunteers who have been recognised in the King’s New Year’s Honours List.

Sue Walker

Sue Walker, former Scottish Chief Commissioner from 2012 – 2017, received the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her outstanding service to young people and her community. Having joined Brownies at age 7, Sue has been a dedicated member and volunteer for over 50 years taking on all sorts of roles from Leader of her local Brownie unit in Limekilns to supporting volunteers in Fife as County Leadership Qualification Mentor. Previously, Sue has also supported the public affairs and external outreach of her county as a Communications and PR Adviser, and in 2014 was recognised for her support, passion and hard work with the ‘Fife Service Award’.

In 2017, Sue received the Laurel Award due to her outstanding contribution to guiding and for demonstrating excellent leadership skills. As our Scottish Chief Commissioner, Sue focused on growing guiding and saw over 100 units open or re-open across Scotland.

Margaret Douglas Rae

Margaret (Mar) Douglas Rae has received a British Empire Medal (BEM) for her services to Girlguiding across Scotland. Starting out as a Brownie in Bishopton at age 7 and gaining her Queen’s Guide Award, Mar has since taken on volunteering roles such as County Ambassador, County Outdoor Activity Adviser and County Help for Renfrewshire County, building all the way up to County President between 2016 – 2023. During her time as County President, Mar supported girls and young women through the Covid-19 pandemic and made sure to stay in touch with volunteers who may otherwise have felt isolated in lockdown. Mar also supported Scotland as a Country Walking Adviser, encouraging young members and leaders to get outside and go on adventures.

Claire Armstrong

Another of our volunteers, Dr Claire Armstrong, has received an OBE for services to Veterans through her role as Chief Executive Officer with Legion Scotland. Outside of work, Claire has been a volunteer with Girlguiding Midlothian for over 10 years.

Jane Simpkins

Jane Simpkins has received the Meritorious Service Medal due to her long-term service with the Royal Air Force. The medal is awarded for serving personnel with good, faithful, valuable and meritorious conduct, and who have supported their local community. Jane volunteers with Girlguiding Inverness as a unit leader and County Leadership Qualification Mentor and supports Girlguiding Scotland as trainer in First Aid.

A huge congratulations to all our volunteers who have been recognised in the King’s New Year’s Honours List. Volunteers are at the very heart of guiding and with over 9,000, Girlguiding Scotland has one of the biggest volunteer networks in the country. Thank you for your continued support and dedication in creating adventures and opportunities for our young members.