A FLOURISHING Brownie group near York is in danger of closing unless a new leader can be found.

Strensall Brownies, which has been going for almost 60 years, runs during school term time on Thursdays and also takes girls on outings and activities, said its 'Brown Owl' Sharon Massey.

"It can be a great experience doing various activities with the girls," she said. "We recently went to Go Outdoors in Fossbank to use the climbing wall in their shop. The staff were great and the girls had a great time.

"The Brownies did this as part of the Brownies' 100 years Challenge Badge. However, Strensall Brownies is expecting to close in July if we can't get some new adult leaders. But we have 24 children in the pack, aged from seven to 11, and a lot of children on our waiting list, so we don't want it to close."

She said the pack had had three leaders until one retired a couple of years ago, and now she - Sharon - was also planning to retire in summer after 13 years with the pack.

"My daughter has grown up and I want to pursue other things," she said. "The other leader, Helen Fagan, is still there but at least one more leader is needed.

"We have advertised in the village but with no luck so far."

She said any woman aged 19-65, interested could contact her on 01904 491284, or email sharon.massey@btinternet.com.

Background checks would be carried out and training provided. Prospective leaders did not have to come from Strensall but had to be able to get there every Thursday evening for the pack meetings.