Over 150 girls from around the Island have returned home from an unusual overnight sleepover venue at the Family Library, Westmoreland Road, Douglas. 

The girls, aged 7 and 8 years old enjoyed exciting crafts and a film in celebration of the Brownie Section Centenary – The Big Brownie Birthday.

Isla, aged 8, said: “It was a bit scary staying away from home, but it was really fun to stay away with all my Brownie friends, one of the leaders said it was the first time anyone had slept in the Library!

“We did lots of fun things but what I most enjoyed was the story at bedtime.”

The lead volunteer, Julie Farrar, said: “The Stay Away event at The Family Library was a great chance for the girls to get away and enjoy each other’s company in a safe, girl-only space.

“All the girls (and the leaders!) told me how much they enjoyed themselves and they can’t wait to for their next adventure!”
Mary Cousins, Librarian in Charge, "This is the first sleepover we've had here and it's been great to see the library used in this way. We just love finding new ways to get involved with the community and were delighted to be part of the Brownies Centenary celebrations."

Adventures like this are just part of the range of activities open to girls and young women through Girlguiding, which gives them their own space to grow in confidence, raise their aspirations and have fun.

For further information contact Girlguiding on 0800 1 69 59 01 or visit www.girlguiding.org.uk.