SHE is just 20 years old, but has helped to run a boisterous brownie unit for the last six years.

Now Kirsty Mitchell, of Elland, has been nominated for an award in recognition of her volunteering.

She leads 20 brownies at the 8th Elland Brownie pack, based at Westgate, Elland.

And after her dedication, she’s landed a nomination in the Vocalink West Yorkshire Young People of the Year – and could win £1,000.

Kirsty was just 14 when she jumped at the chance to volunteer with the brownies.

Kirsty, of Melrose Court, was nominated by Mary Rumble, a Brownie Guider with the 8th Elland Brownies.

Mary said: “I just knew when I met Kirsty when she was a brownie that she had something special.

“When I heard that she had finished guiding I knew I had to get her involved as a young leader.

“She has such a great relationship with the brownies. She can have fun with them, but at the same time knows when to be the responsible adult and the children respect that.”

Kirsty left the guides aged 14, but quickly got involved with the brownies.

The 20-year-old Huddersfield University student said: “Mary asked if I would like to be a young leader at my local brownies instead of giving it up altogether.

“I’d had such a great time both as a brownie and a guide that I thought it would be a good idea to at least try it.”

And six years on she is still there, getting involved in everything from playing games and helping girls with their badge work to preparing the room for the Tuesday evening’s activities.

She started the qualifying process to become an Assistant Guider two years ago and could run her own unit when she’s finished.

“This is the best type of voluntary work I could think of doing as I’m giving back to the community and helping the younger generation grow and develop,” said Kirsty.

“I love working with children and being able to offer them a good start in life – this is what draws me to want to teach. It’s also why I love helping with the brownies.”

She is currently studying for a history degree at Huddersfield University and hopes to become a primary school teacher.

Entries for the awards are being taken until September. Visit www.yopey.org to nominate a young person who gives back to the community.

Kirsty and all the other finalists will find out if they’re winners in the autumn.