Guider Anne Clark discovered that one good turn deserved another, when friends and helpers sprung a surprise in her honour.

Anne Clark looks through an album

As district commissioner for west Oxford, Mrs Clark helps organise an annual party to congratulate Guides who have raised funds for children's charities through good deeds for family members.

But when the commendations were over at the Women's Institute hall in Botley, it was Mrs Clark's turn to receive thanks for her seven years in the post.

Mrs Clark, who is known as Swallow to her colleagues, was presented with gift vouchers, a Girl Guide Association vase and a large bunch of flowers.

She will now be using her experience in helping to train new leaders.

One of her Guiders, Victoria Fretwell, said: "Anne has made a huge contribution to Guiding in the west Oxford district during her seven-year tenure.

"Notably, she has established two new Brownie units, helped to revive the Guide unit, and more recently, she's been the driving force behind the opening of a new Rainbows unit in the district."

Mrs Clark, 64, who retires from the movement next year after 36 years in Guiding, is looking forward to spending more time on the family narrow boat.

Looking back on her long career, she said: "It's been very satisfying and fruitful, particularly watching children achieving good values and reaching their individual potential."

Guiding colleague and Brownie leader, Catriona Beer, whose 13-year-old daughter, Kirsty, was presented with her Baden Powell Challenge Award at the party, added: "I've learned a huge amount from Anne, and the girls all think she is great.

"I'm not sure what we will do without her -- she'll be missed enormously."