WORRIED Rainbows fear their fun-filled Saturday meetings will finish unless a new leader is found fast.

Hannah Pool, leader of the 1st Bourne End Rainbow Guides, will leave the helm of the popular Saturday group in five weeks and unless someone steps into her boots the group will collapse.

Ms Pool said: "It would be so terrible for them if it all had to come to an end. I've warned the girls that this might happen but I really hope it doesn't."

She spoke of the importance of the group which has been running for 12 years to the 18 girls aged between five and seven years old who attend.

She said: "It's really great fun for them and is a place where they can meet friends and eventually go on to Guides.

"We do a lot of crafts and learn about helping each other along with the Rainbow promise."

Letters have gone out to parents about the possibility of a closure.

Currently the group is packed to capacity and there are some 20 more on a waiting list.

Ms Pool added: "We are also in desperate need of helpers. Our main assistant will also be leaving so we need to fill that position too. It would be terrible if we had to close."

The group meets each Saturday during term-time, in the Bourne End Red Cross Hut.

Positions are ideal for people looking to get into careers working with children, like teaching.

Although the group now meets between 9am and 10am times can be changed for the new leader.

If you would like to help out contact District Commissioner Frances Lindley on 01628 521745

January 20, 2003 09:30