Ruth Ginn, of 1st Soham Guides, was given a surprise party at the group's weekly meeting, where current and former members wished her farewell.

Throughout the evening, she had the chance to reminisce about her time with the group during a This is Your Life-style event.

Former and current colleagues gave speeches about working with Mrs Ginn and two former Guide members recited a poem which they had written about her.

Some of Mrs Ginn's family also joined in the fun, including her two sisters and their husbands and her grandchildren.

Mrs Ginn, who started with the group as a cook and unit helper, said: "It was a bit of a shock to walk in and see all those people there.

"It was lovely to see everyone and to have my family there as well. I am going to miss the girls all so much."

She was presented with a plaque made by the 1st Soham Guides, a picture of Ely Cathedral, a teddy bear with a Guide emblem and 14 bunches of flowers.