A LACK of adult leaders could mean curtains for a local Brownie unit. The unit, in Innerleithen, is extremely popular with girls aged seven to ten years of age. So much so, that waiting lists are currently in place to join the group.

But attracting voluntary leaders for the group is proving to be harder. If the Brownie unit were to close, it would be the second unit to cease in Innerleithen in a matter of months. A Rainbow unit, for girls aged five to seven closed at the end of last year.

Alexina Hamilton, District Commissioner of Innerleithen and Walkerburn district said: “Last year what we had was two Rainbow units, two Brownie units a Guide unit and a Senior section unit.

“But because we were struggling for leaders, we had to close one of our Rainbow units. We have three leaders who will retire soon. They could have retired sooner, but they didn’t want to see the unit close.

“They have done their fair share and we are looking at other leaders to take over now. But the simple fact of the matter is if we can’t get new leaders in place by October, we will have no choice but to close one Brownie unit, which will be disappointing for so many girls.” Each unit can cater for up to 24 girls, and the range of practical and fun activities has proved to be popular with generations of girls across the UK since the Brownies were first organised by Lord Baden-Powell in 1914. “I am 32 now and I have been guiding since I was seven,” said Alexina.

“The Guides have given me so much over the years, and I would recommend it to anyone. As well as developing your own leadership skills, you get the chance to meet new people, be that locally or at events outwith your own area. You will be creating positive experiences for the girls too, and being part of that is very rewarding.” The Brownies currently meet on Monday evening at the School Hall at St Ronan’s Primary School in Innerleithen, but a change to that date is one of a number of measures currently being considered to preserve the unit.

“We are in discussions about that,” Alexina confirmed. “We would be reluctant to change the date, but if we found the right candidate, we could be flexible.

“Another area we looked at is our unit accounts. At present, the unit leaders have to deal with that. Each unit has to produce accounts every year to keep track of money that is coming in and going out.

“There might be a role available for a responsible individual, perhaps someone who has just retired, to help us with that side of things. Which would in turn reduce the workload of current or future leaders. “It could be the ideal opportunity for someone who wants to meet new people and help the community, but who doesn’t want to run a unit. This is their chance to get involved.” You can register your interest in a leadership role at http://www.girlguiding.org.uk or contact Alexina Hamilton at alexina7@hotmail.co.uk