Girlguiding Cymru Wayfinders
On 18- 19 September 2022 several volunteers from Girlguiding Cymru made a sombre journey to London for the state funeral of our patron, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
They were joined by Girlguiding volunteers from all regions.
Whilst in London, their role was to support members of the public to pay their respects.
Cheryl Crisp, County Commissioner of Cardiff and East Glamorgan told us about their role.
If you volunteered, and wish to share a quote or photograph please email us below.
“Leaders from Cardiff & East Glamorgan travelled to London in the early hours of Sunday to volunteer as part of OLB.
On our arrival at St James’ Church a candle was lit and we said our promise for the last time to the Queen as our final mark of respect.
We then took up post on Marble Arch/Hyde Park, our role being one of helping people find their way to the flower memorial garden so they could leave floral tributes and help with other questions they had.
At the end of our shift we made our way to the memorial garden and left flowers from our County.
During the day we met leaders from all over the United Kingdom and whilst a very sad time, we felt it was a fitting tribute on behalf of Girlguiding to our Patron.
We were proud to play our part.”
Katie’s Story
Student, Katie Tew, who is a leader from Bangor has just moved to University, but felt felt strongly that she should volunteer in London. She explained why below.
“When I first made my guiding promise, I promised ‘to serve the Queen and my community’ 18 years later since joining Rainbows, I saluted the queen as she made her final journey to Windsor castle, whilst supporting those visiting London.
The Queen kept that promise she made back when she was first a member of Girlguiding, promising to do her best and has been a constant figure throughout our lives, from being the patron of Girlguiding since 1953, the year of her coronation, through the challenges of Covid-19 to skydiving at the London 2012 Olympics.
Being surrounded by other members of guiding, and the armed forces was a really special way to remember the Queen.”
