Girlguiding is in the midst of its biggest programme overhaul for 100 years – and Hitchin guides got a look at the new resources on the very first day.

A new programme has been introduced for all sections – Rainbows, aged five to six, Brownies, aged seven to 10, Guides, aged 10 to 14, and Rangers, aged 14 to 18.

It includes 100 new badges and 700 new activities, with the aim of “reflecting the diversity of girls and modern life in the 21st century”. The scheme includes badges in topics like archaeology, entrepreneurship and women’s rights.

A special delivery of new badge books and handbooks was made to Hitchin’s Christchurch Brownies, who were on a pack holiday in Wymondley Woods.

Brownie leader Shirley Rossall said: “The Brownies gave a massive thumbs up when asked if they liked the new programme. Our Brownies have said they would like to try the new inventing badge and baking badge first.”