This year marks the 60th anniversary of a special messaging service operated at Girlguiding Cornwall at Cornwall's largest annual event.

Each year, members of Girlguiding run the messenger service at the Royal Cornwall Show, ensuring important information and results from the numerous competitive classes held across the 96-acre showground get quickly to where they need to be.

The service first appeared at the Royal Cornwall Show in 1957 at Wadebridge.

At that time the show took place at a different location each year, finally settling at its current permanent showground at Wadebridge in 1960 where most of the Guiding service has taken place.

The idea was spawned from the guides’ involvement in the same role at the 1955 Bath & West Show which was held at Launceston.

Around 200 Cornish Girlguides and leaders will be involved at the show and their role has expanded significantly since the 1950’s.

The team currently runs the well-used flower crèche in the popular flower show marquee.

This facility allows visitors to buy plants and flowers and leave them in a cool place so they can enjoy the rest of the show before collecting their purchases on their way home.

Members also run the flower show’s catering service, help operate the children’s crèche within the family area and assist show-goers in finding their seat in the main ring grandstand.

Two years ago show organisers asked Cornwall Guiding to join their team of show hosts who provide information and answer visitors' questions at the show’s busy entry points.

Paula Volkner, current messenger service organiser for Girlguiding Cornwall, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for the girls to serve the community and support our county agricultural show while gaining confidence and good communication skills.

"The girls work extremely hard, carrying out very responsible jobs which require them to be reliable, punctual and good team players.

"This in return enhances their life skills and gives them a practical understanding of how to be of service to the community.”

Christopher Riddle, secretary of the Royal Cornwall Agricultural Association, said: “The messenger service has played a significant part in the smooth running of the show over the past six decades.

"We rely on so many volunteers who give up their time, energy and expertise to make the event possible, so we thank the young people from Cornwall Girlguiding and their leaders for their dedicated service over such a long period.”

Jill Jeffs & Sue Norfolk, the joint County Commissioners for Girlguiding Cornwall, said: “We are happy that guiding in the county is as active today as it was 60 years ago and delighted that such a piece of high profile community service is as relevant now as it was back when it began.

"We wish to thank the show for continuing to give us this opportunity.”

A new uniform to celebrate the occasion will be worn by the team at the show, generously sponsored by Cornwall Screenprint and Embroidery.

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For more information please visit girlguidingcornwall.org.uk.