“Girl Guiding is all about fun and friendship,” that’s the view of Girlguiding Pembrokeshire’s new county commissioner Sian Garside from Milford Haven.

Sian, a popular member of staff at the Tasker Milward Learning Centre, was recently elected to follow outgoing county commissioner Helen Perrett.

Guiding has always played an important part in Sian’s life, her mum Wendy Barnett is a leader with the 1st Hakin Guides and has always been involved on county level.

Sian’s involvement with Guiding began at the age of seven when she was enrolled into the 1st Hakin Brownies as a member of “the Imps” by Joan Best.

At ten she progressed to 1st Hakin Guides and aged 12 became a pack leader with the 1st Hakin Brownies, a young leader at the age of 14 and at 18 an adult leader.

When asked what she most enjoys about Girl Guiding, Sian said: “It has to be the fun and friendship.

“We have so much fun, not just within our units, but in whatever we are doing.

“When you’ve had a tough day in work and you go to Guides, the girls always manage to lift your spirits as they are so enthusiastic about everything they do.

“It goes the same for the adult members of Guiding who are there because they want the girls to get the same experience, fun and friendship we had as young members.

“Some of my oldest friends were in Brownies at the same time as me and we went through Guides and Senior Section together.

"I’m still in touch with friends I made on the International trip I made as a Guide in 1993.

"I have had so many experiences and opportunities through Guiding that it would be impossible to name them all.

“It has given me more confidence in myself and has helped me so much in all areas of my life.

“Guiding gives me so much support and friendship that I’d be lost without it.

“I was so touched and proud to be asked if I would consider taking on the role of county commissioner and I am extremely humbled that the members of the county felt that I am the right person to lead the county for the next five years, and I will do my very best to give the role what it deserves.”

To find out more about Girlguiding go to www.girlguiding.org.uk.