PLATE spinning, juggling and stilt walking were among skills honed by a group of north Hampshire girls to mark the centenary of Girlguiding UK.

Girls from the Kingsclere and Silchester Division celebrated 100 years of girlguiding with a week-long, circus-themed camp at Thirtover in Cold Ash, Berkshire, with activities such as hoop dancing, Poi spinning, a disco and a trip to Chessington World of Adventures.

The week culminated with a day at the circus, for which the 35-strong group were joined by another 100 Rainbows, Brownies and Guides from the division, from Tadley, Silchester, Baughurst, Ashford Hill and Highclere.

Together, they had a go at circus skills such as walking the tightrope, balancing on balls, ribbon dancing and stilt-walking.

The day ended with a barbecue and traditional campfire and a presentation of Baden-Powell Awards to four girls – Sarah Bourne, Libby Goffredo, Abbie Pearce and Charlotte Oliver – from the First Baughurst Guides.

Sarah Garvey, division commissioner, said: “A huge part of being involved in Guiding is the chance for members to have a go at something exciting alongside a group of friends. The day in spite of the rain was fantastic fun and sums up what Girlguiding UK’s centenary celebrations have been all about – a huge adventure for us all and one which we will never forget.”

Thousands of events have taken place across the country since centenary celebrations began in September last year.

Girlguiding UK runs Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Senior Sections in which girls aged seven to 21 take part in a broad range of activities, from outdoor adventure to pop-concert trips and community action.

There are currently about 500,000 members in Britain.

More information is available at girlguiding.org.uk.