A Brownie leader has been recognised for her 50 years of voluntary service with the Girlguiding organisation.

Marilyn Tozer, who is a Watford Brownie leader, has been awarded with a special 50-year long service brooch along with a certificate that has been signed by the Chief Guide.

She received her award from Assistant County Commissioner Anne Johns at a ceremony held in her garden.

Watford Observer: Marilyn Tozer receives her award from Assistant County Commissioner Anne Johns, who is also from WatfordMarilyn Tozer receives her award from Assistant County Commissioner Anne Johns, who is also from Watford

Marilyn has not looked back ever since she joined the Brownies as a youngster in her home county of Nottinghamshire - and she has no intention of hanging up her uniform just yet.

Marilyn has a host of enjoyable and precious memories during her Girlguiding career.

They include when she would take the children away on Pack Holidays allowing them to develop their independence and confidence.

Or when she met Lady Baden-Powell, when the first Chief Guide for Britain visited the Welsh Brownies and Guides.

Marilyn said: "It would probably have been 1967. We were all lined up in a huge hall. As she walked along, preceded by her Standard, she acknowledged everyone but then stopped and asked me why I didn’t have the Welsh red dragon on my hat.

"My warrant was still for my Nottinghamshire unit and that was the hat badge I was wearing. I explained, but I was so impressed that this elderly lady was observant and interested enough in everyone to notice something so small."

Watford Observer: Marilyn TozerMarilyn Tozer

Marilyn began working with 17th Watford Brownies in 1977, where she met the other leader, Carole Robson, who has become one of her closest friends.

After many enjoyable years, the 17th Brownies merged with the 9th in 2018, and now Marilyn and Carole are working together again.

Watford Observer: The brooch awarded to MarilynThe brooch awarded to Marilyn

Reflecting on the last five decades, Marilyn said: "I’ve seen so many changes during the 50 years, including several styles of uniform. The programme has changed with the times, but the fundamental principles remain the same, and are the reason why I have never wanted to give up guiding.

"I’ve gained so much from guiding all my life, and I have felt so much pleasure from seeing girls develop and gain confidence, make new friends and try new skills, knowing that if they don’t succeed it doesn’t matter, no one will laugh or criticise, just encourage and support.

"I would recommend anyone to come and join us – you’ll get enormous satisfaction, have loads of fun and make some great friends."