In a touching homage to her late mother, Scunthorpe’s Chantal Collingwood is poised to receive the esteemed Queen’s Guide award, the highest distinction in Girlguiding. Chantal was inspired to follow in the footsteps of her mother, Hazel, who devoted herself to leading a Guide group in Winterton. Chantal commenced her own journey in Guiding when she was 10 years old. Despite the hurdles, she remains committed, attributing her determination to her mother’s memory, particularly during tough times. “At my mum’s funeral, my childhood leader presented me with a Queen’s Guide record book, saying how much my mum would have loved to see me finish it,” Chantal recounted. This considerate act kindled her resolve to secure the award and she felt a deep connection to her mother throughout her journey.
Working as a mental health nurse, Chantal dedicated hundreds of hours over a span of two and a half years to achieve this feat. She even obtained her camp licence and oversaw residential trips catering to around 30 girls. Having served as an assistant leader at 1st Broughton Guides for seven years, she aims to bestow the same opportunities and passion for exploration that her mother inculcated in her. In October, Chantal will unite with other awardees at the Girlguiding Celebrates ceremony in Manchester, where she hopes her mother would be satisfied with her achievements.
This article has been adapted from the original report featured on www.bbc.com and further developed by The Lincoln Post.
