Guiding figurehead receives top award

Alderley Edge Guiding's Judy Povey has won a prestigious national award in recognition of more than 50 years' support she has given the organisation at local, district and county level.

Carlisle born Judy, who has lived in Alderley Edge for 27 years, was surprised with the award at a Cheshire Border Guiding County social evening in Congleton Town Hall on Friday April 19th.

North West Region Commissioner Sue Lomas, who was guest of honour at the event, announced the accolade – The Chief Commissioner's Award – before 200 guests from across the Guiding county's 19 districts.

The Region Chief Commissioner's Award is for members of Guiding North West England, which represents 60,000 members, who have displayed enthusiasm, abilities or qualities that make her stand out as an Ambassador for the Region.

Leaders in Alderley Edge District, which includes Chelford, Prestbury and Mottram St Andrew, had nominated Judy, and supported their request with testimonials about Judy's work, dedication and inspirational leadership.

"I felt very humbled to receive the award," said Judy. "I also felt very proud, because these awards aren't made very often. It's a very special honour."

Judy, a former Brownie and Guide, first became a leader in Carlisle with Brownies and Guides. With husband David, she moved to Cheshire in 1982 and helped with Brownies and Guides in Chelford for about six years, before moving to Alderley Edge.

"I ran the two Guide units we had then in Alderley – 1st and 3rd Alderley Guides, and became District Commissioner, then Division Commissioner," she said.

Judy is now a unit helper with Alderley Guides and a member of the District Team. She continues to support Guiding at county level by serving as Criminal Records Bureau Co-ordinator, and also mentors leaders in training. She is currently Assistant County Secretary, responsible for long service awards in Cheshire Border.

"Guiding has given me some tremendous experiences and opportunities," said Judy. "It trains you in all sorts of ways, and is a real asset to anybody's career and work. I was District International Adviser for a while and hosting Guiding members from France, Canada and Norway on international visits has been fantastic. Guiding is great fun, very rewarding and a wonderful way to help youngsters develop into adulthood."

Judy is pictured (right) with her award, together with Cheshire Border County Commissioner Sue Taylor.