AN inspirational young woman from Malton has risen to the challenge to achieve the highest award in girlguiding.

Alice Keane, 25, was presented with her Queen’s Guide Award at the House of Commons by Val Elliott, the interim chairman of Girlguiding’s Board of Trustees and Sally Illsley, deputy chief guide.

To achieve the award, Alice took on a series of personal challenges in areas such as social action, voluntary work and travel. Fewer than 150 girl guides are presented with the award each year and they have to complete their challenges before they turn 26.

Alice, who is currently a leader with 3rd Bootle & Litherland Guides in Liverpool, but was formerly with 1st Malton Brownie and Guides, took three years to finish her challenges. These included organising a Horrible Histories-themed holiday for Brownies, taking part in Speak Out, giving young women in Girlguiding North East the chance to have their voices heard and attending an international camp called Giggles.

Alice, said: "Completing the award has definitely increase my confidence and helped me to develop new skills. It has shown me I can do anything I put my mind to. It has also allowed me to do things I may not have done without taking part in the award, make new friends and deepened my passion for girl guiding. I want to get more involved and take advantage of the amazing things that can be done through girl guiding."

Val Elliott, interim chairman of the board of trustees, said: “It was an honour to present these inspirational young women with their awards and a privilege to hear about the challenges they took on and the projects they completed. By attaining the Queen’s Guide Award they have shown what can be achieved through dedication and hard work. Congratulations to them all.”

Sally Illsley, deputy chief guide, said: “The presentation of the Queen’s Guide Awards is a wonderful celebration of all these young women have achieved. They have all pushed themselves to take on challenges outside of their comfort zone, to develop skills and make a difference in their communities and further afield. They should be incredibly proud of their achievements.”

For more information about how to get involved with girl guiding, visit girlguiding.org.uk