A GOUROCK woman who attended a girls organisation when she was younger is now a leader of the group.

Alissa Morrison, 25, went to Sunbeams when she was in P1 and P2 Gourock Primary School.

The section was originally run by by a group of ladies from Old Gourock and Ashton Church.

At the age of 13 Alissa began to help out at the Sunbeams while also starting to work towards her Duke of Edinburgh award at Gourock High.

As well as helping out at the Sunbeams, Alissa and her friends learned archery, guitar, basketball and arts and crafts, went on expeditions and had to plan and cook their own meals.

She says that qualities she learned during her Duke of Edinburgh award work have prepared her well for becoming a Sunbeams leader.

Alissa said: “The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a fantastic experience for young people.

"It encouraged me to try new things and meet new people, it was very tough but rewarding too.

“Duke of Edinburgh is a great way to gain experience to move towards work or volunteering.

"Many of the activities and trips have prepared me well to become a leader.”

Alissa organises weekly games and activities with the group, something she enjoyed taking part in as a Sunbeam.

She also helps to host fundraisers and organises trips for the group.

She said: “Leading Sunbeams is a lot of work - my mum is a very big help!

"But it is really good fun and it’s great to see the girls enjoying themselves each week.

“We have girls coming from schools all over Inverclyde, so it also gives them a chance to meet new friends.”

Many of the young helpers at Sunbeams are now working towards their own Duke of Edinburgh awards and Alissa is on hand to offer invaluable advice.

Alissa went along to Holyrood Palace to be presented with her award by Prince Edward.

Jan Spence, from Inverclyde Duke of Edinburgh Award, said: “When Alissa signed up for her DofE, she came along with a group of friends from school, all eager to take part.

“Alissa was looking for a volunteering opportunity, went along to the Sunbeams in Old Gourock and Ashton Church in Gourock and as they say the rest is history.”

Now a teacher at Craigmarloch School, Alissa runs the Sunbeams every Thursday in Old Gourock and Ashton Church hall on Binnie Street from 5-6.30pm.

All primary one and two girls are welcome.