The Third Midsomer Norton Rainbows opened their doors for the first time on 6th June last year. The first six months have been an incredible journey, where new friendships have been made along with learning new skills, and all about our Guiding family.

At the end of July, a fun-filled evening was had with the Seventh Midsomer Norton Brownies (and parents), where everyone went pond-dipping and found lots of creatures, and had a lovely time playing in the river. It was also a very

important evening; as we had all been learning about Guiding and Rainbows, and we all made our promise, along with a Brownie, and our two new Rainbow Leaders. This was a very proud moment for us all.

In September, we came back refreshed after the summer break and got off to a flying start – we went on a scavenger hunt and made some Rainbow Sticks out of all the bits we found. We visited Radstock Fire Station with the Brownies and had a fabulous time – we were even allowed to use the hose pipes! During half-term, we had a lovely afternoon at Longvernal School, who kindly allowed us to use their Forest School area. We were taught how to make a fire and toast marshmallows over it – they were yummy!

We were really lucky to have a Mum who is an ex-RAF Medic, who talked to us about the Poppy Appeal and the importance of Remembrance Day, with the Rainbows making their first public appearance when they took part in the procession in Midsomer Norton. It was very cold, but the Rainbows did everyone proud and stood very still and quietly.

Our winter term came to a fun end as we visited the Brownies on a sleepover and celebrated Christmas with them, making many crafts and having fun. We had a party to celebrate Rainbows being thirty in 2017 – we took part in a 30th Birthday Card Swap with units all over the World. We finished off 2017 by Carol Singing at Tesco, Midsomer Norton, to raise funds for our Hall in Rock Road.

The success of our first six months has only happened because of the dedication of the Leaders, but a big ‘thank you’ goes to the parents for bringing the girls along, Sun Chemical for donating lots of stationery items, Clutton Trefoil Guild for donating the Rainbow starter books and Longvernal School for allowing us to use their Forest School area.

If you are interested in joining Rainbows or any other Guiding Section, including volunteering as a Unit Helper or Leader, you can find more details by visiting: www.girguiding.org.uk

Ruth Boucher