By 
THERE were smiles and cheers as girls from Aughnacloy were among those who received the ‘Queen’s Award’ with Girls’ Brigade Northern Ireland during a prestigious ceremony.
Taking place recently at Drumreagh Presbyterian, Ballymoney, the annual presentation ceremony recently welcomed the accolade winners along with special guests, their family, friends and Girls’ Brigade Northern Ireland leaders.
The Queen’s Award is the highest possible attainable award, and the syllabus is a major undertaking for young women.
Over a period of two years working for the Award, the girls were required to undertake six elements: Community service; GB company service; submission of an in depth project assignment to a high standard; completion of two initiative tests; pass a two hour written study paper and final interview; whilst also playing an active part in life of their church.
The Queen’s Award is run to agreed international standards in GB companies all over the world.
Nursing homes, charity shops, home and overseas mission teams and youth organisations in NI are just some of the organisations which benefit from over 2,200 hours of voluntary work undertaken by all the girls.
Projects completed included a portfolio of paintings in the theme of fellowship, photographic display celebrating 200 years of their church, clay sculptures, making a ‘Buddy Bench’ for younger girls in GB to use,crocheting blankets and cardigans for use in neo-natal wards.
Poetry, the history of local landmarks and women of the Bible were just some of the topics researched for project work.