BROWNIES in Gwent are adding trade skills to their sash of accolades, thanks to Coleg Gwent.

The group of 26 Brownies, part of Girlguiding Gwent, are brushing up on their paintwork, woodwork and plumbing skills, working with the college to create their own bird boxes and fountain pumps to place in woodlands across the borough.

Since September, the group of girls – led by County Commissioner and Brown Owl for 1st and 2nd Magor Brownies, Andrea Rodley – have been visiting the Coleg Gwent’s Pontypool campus.

Working together with carpentry and construction lecturers and students, the Magor Brownies, aged 7-10 years old, plan on completing their bird boxes before the end of this year.

Head of School Business and Construction, Stuart Ford, said: “It’s fantastic to introduce these valuable skills to young girls at an early age; hopefully we’ll inspire them to continue their enthusiasm for the subjects and even gain a career in the trades.

“Our lecturers and students have got a lot out of helping the Brownies, with the project counting towards our learners’ Welsh Bacc qualification.”

The college has previously worked with Girlguiding Gwent, when 11 Magor Brownies created and pressure tested a closed water system, with the help of the college’s Plumbing department.

County Commissioner, Ms Rodley, said: “I am thrilled with this partnership and can't thank Coleg Gwent enough for the opportunities they’re giving us.

“The girls, and their parents, are really excited about the project and it’s certainly creating a buzz in the county!”

To enrol on a carpentry or construction course, or any of the other subjects at the college, visit the Coleg Gwent website www.coleggwent.ac.uk