A YOUNG woman from a York guiding family has received the organisation’s top award.

Becky Lowe, of Gower Road, Dringhouses, was awarded the Queen’s Guide Award at a ceremony at Strensall Village Hall, and will travel to London for a national ceremony later this year.

For the award guides must create and complete a list of challenges, including exploration, community action, personal development, services in guiding and a residential experience.

Becky said: “For my exploration challenge I went to London and visited every square on the Monopoly board, taking pictures and comparing them to the Yorkshire edition.

“I also studied yoga for personal development and took a group of Brownies on a residential trip, which involved getting a special licence and making all the arrangements.”

Becky’s mother was one of the founders of the 1st Strensall Rainbow Guide Group in 1993, and Becky’s sister Emma was also a guide for several years.

The Queen’s Guide Award must be completed within three years and before the guide’s 26th birthday.

Becky, 21, started her challenges at the age of 18 while still at sixth form, and has completed the award while studying for a degree in zoology at Sheffield University.

Her mother, Karen, was very proud of Becky’s achievement.

Karen said: “We feel it was an achievement for a young person to be recognised, when a lot of stories can be focused on the negative side of youth.

“I couldn’t be prouder that Becky could be so motivated and willing to give something back to the community.”

Becky said: “Keeping motivated was the hardest part. I feel like I haven’t had a day off in three years. I’m really pleased that I’ve done it, and that I’m one of only a handful in our county to complete the award.”