Carole Davies

Hi, I’m Carole Davies, although my guiding name is Kestrel. Let me tell you a bit about myself for those of you who don’t know me!

I have been a leader for over 50 years and actually in Girlguiding for over 61 years. After 6 years as Basildon division commissioner I became county commissioner for Essex South East in December 2022.

I joined 5^th Basildon Brownies at 7 years old and then “flew” up to 5^th Basildon Guides in 1963. I went on to gain my Queen’s Guide Award, as a Guide, in 1968. From there, I became a company leader, now known as a young leader, within the Guide unit. I quickly become assistant unit leader and then unit leader in 1971, where I continued for the next 25 years. In 1978, I gained my Camp Licence, taking my 3 year old daughter and 15 month old son with me! Must have been mad! I became leader of Sovereign Rangers and have been in this role for more than 25 years. Throughout I have been in Basildon District and at the same venue, where I still am today.

During my 50+ years of guiding I have held numerous district, division and county roles. For the last 10 years have been county Queen’s Guide award adviser, a role I absolutely love.

I have organised and run many residential events, mainly for Guides and Rangers, again at all levels (district, division, county and region). I have also been involved in the last 6 Essex International Jamborees in some form or another.

During my time in guiding, I have been very fortunate to have been awarded many various awards. This culminated in being awarded the Laurel Award in December 2018, something I certainly never expected to receive.

Here’s to my next ??? years in guiding!