To mark Girlguiding’s Centenary, 1000 girls attended ‘Caledonia 2010’ a huge camp at Girlguiding’s Training Centre, Netherurd, in Peeblesshire, and were delighted to receive a visit from HRH the Countess of Wessex on 20 July.

The week-long Camp, which ran from  17-24 July, offered girls opportunities to take part in exciting activities from high ropes, sumo suits and archery to abseiling, mountain biking and a water assault course. There was even a chance to try camping 1950s style!

And as part of her Royal visit to the camp, the Countess, who is President of Girlguiding UK, planted a red flowering hawthorn to commemorate the Centenary.

The tree, donated to Girlguiding Scotland by Cheviot Trees, is indigenous and blossoms in Girlguiding’s Centenary pink. It was chosen because the tree provides the best ecosystem for wildlife after the oak tree.

Dinah Faulds, Scottish Chief Commissioner, said: “We are honoured that HRH the Countess of Wessex has chosen to celebrate the Centenary with us at this very special camp.

“Only once in 100 years can Girlguiding celebrate a Centenary, and what a year of celebrations we have enjoyed! The tree planting will be a lasting memento of her visit and of the Centenary and the immense contribution Girlguiding has made as it has touched the lives of over a third of girls and women all over Scotland.”