The unit was registered on 2.2.1968 under the leadership of Mrs Pam Gilbert. She ran the unit until 1977 when she moved away and Kathleen Walker continues to run the unit today. Pam writes the following:

"I arrived in Rushden in 1967 and Mrs Maidwell, who was the District Commissioner wasted no time in getting me to start the 6th Rushden Guides at the Catholic Church." [for more see Pam's memories]

Camping has always played a large part in the programme. In July 1970 the girls took part in the County Camp at Castle Ashby and then later went to Derbyshire for their Company Camp.

At County Camp at Castle Ashby in 1970

Guides go camping
GIRL GUIDES from Rushden, Higham Ferrers and Irthlingborough left for their annual summer camp at Monyash, near Bakewell, Derbyshire, on Wednesday morning. Accompanyinq the 30 guides were Mrs P. Gilbert, of Rushden, who was in charge, Mrs J. Sharp and Mrs Bobbi Bird. They left at 8.30 am in a furniture van from the Roman Catholic Church, Rushden, piled high with their camping equipment. They are staying on a farm in Derbyshire where a farmer has generously allowed them to pitch their tents in one of his fields. During the week they will be practising camp-craft, hiking and map reading. They will also pay visits to Chatsworth House and Matlock.

At Monyash 1970

The company was very active and had many Queen's Guides.

Five of the girls who gained their awards at the end of 1972 or the beginning of 1973. Top Elizabeth Jaquest, middle left Kathleen McMillan, middle right Elizabeth Edwards, bottom right Ann Hart.

Kathleen McMillan (now Walker) is running the company today. (2014)

Other Queen's Guides include Marie Foy, Carole Johnson, Christine Smith, Joanne Sharpe, Teresa Hulatt, Linda Cicerci, Julie Buckman, Karen Edwards, Beverly Reeves, Donna and Lisa.