Hands up if you’ve heard of the Trefoil Guild? I’m guessing there’s not too many readers who have; I certainly hadn’t before I joined Girlguiding as an adult.
The Trefoil Guild’s origins lie in 1920 as ex-Guides began to form unofficial groups; the Guild officially formed in 1943 so has just celebrated its 80th birthday. It is a stand-alone organisation but part of the Guiding movement, and the members are still very much in our hearts. It’s often described as Guiding for adults: it’s for both men and women aged 18 and over, and is a fantastic opportunity to find friendship and support, to get involved in new challenges, or to get active in the community, with much to offer at a local level as well as further afield, including overseas projects. You don’t have to have been a Guide or a Scout and, yes, they do earn badges!
Earlier this year, Caterham Trefoil followed the Bourne Society’s Caterham Hill Town Trail, beginning with a tour of St. Lawrence’s where much was learnt about the ancient church. Naturally coffee and cake followed!
After viewing a variety of buildings along the High Street, the next venues were the Caterham Arms pub, the Guards’ Memorial, the Chapel and then The Arc for a well-earned lunch and a browse of the history boards. Verdict: a good day out. The group meets on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at St John’s Church Hall in Caterham.
Warlingham Trefoil meets on the third Thursday of every month. One of the members is a founder member of the group! They have been hugely supportive of the Guide Barn over the years and enjoyed a fish’n’chip lunch there in July, each member receiving a ‘thank you’ potted plant from 1st Warlingham Guides.
Oxted Trefoil meets on an ad hoc basis to share memories and friendships, and most definitely tea and cake.
New members are always welcome! Please check timings and venues with Sue by email at godstonedivision@gmail.com or via our Facebook page. You can contact the Trefoil Guild directly by email: trefoilguild@girlguiding.org.uk.
