A HEREFORD girl guide has been awarded the charity’s ultimate accolade – the Queen’s Guide Award – for her exceptional leadership skills and community work.

Emily Fish, the leader of the 16th Hereford Rainbows, was presented with the award by chief Guide Gill Slocombe at a ceremony at Goldsmiths' Hall in London.

The award is open to women in guiding aged 16 to 25, and sets members a series of challenges.

These include embarking on a four-day expedition and overseeing community action project.

Entrants are also expected to spend a year learning a new skill.

Emily, aged 25, took up ballet and self-defence as well as completing a trek through the Brecon Beacons.

The optical assistant at BBR Optometry in Hereford, said: “I was worried I would not be able to complete the trek, and that I would not be fit enough – especially as I had to carry all my kit.

"But the girls in my group and the leaders all made sure I made it to the finish line.

“Working toward the award has given me opportunities I would not have had otherwise.

"It has given me more focus and determination in life and helped me to meet new people and friends.”

Chief Guide Gill Slocombe, said: “The Queen’s Guide Award embodies all that is best about guiding.

"The adventures that recipients experience, the skills they learn and the friendships and confidence they build will last a lifetime and prove immensely valuable as they pursue their goals in life.

“This challenge has helped them become confident, skilled, self-reliant young women ready to make a positive difference to the world around them, and I have no doubt that they will.”

Emily joins an impressive list of former Queen’s Guide Award recipients including BBC journalist Kate Silverton.