Marilyn started in Girls’ Life Brigade aged 5 and progressed through the ranks to become a leader. She had a huge involvement in the organisation, playing in the band, fundraising to buy band equipment, and taking part and helping behind the scenes at London District’s rallies at the Royal Albert Hall. She also organised many camps for both Girls’ and Boys’ Brigades. After relocating and time with her family, she joined 1st Leighton Buzzard and became the Team Leader there. Sadly, Marilyn never made it back to 1st Leighton Buzzard to reopen the group after the COVID-19 pandemic and passed away last year.
In Marilyn’s memory, a craft competition was created. Crafting was Marilyn’s gift and she was well known for being the go-to person.
This year, n:vestigate members were tasked with making Easter bonnets, n:gage members designed and decorated eggs, n:counta members made Easter cards and n:spire members took on the challenge of making and decorating Easter cakes.
An awards ceremony was held with Marilyn’s husband and daughter presenting the Team Leaders of the winning groups with trophies. The n:vestigate competition was won by 1st Wootton, the n:gage section winner was 2nd Bedford, the n:counta section winner was 1st Kempston and the n:spire section winner was 1st Newport Pagnell.
It’s so great to hear of how the memory of one person can bring together a whole district. Well done to all who took part and organised the event!