Oliver last week visited the Hertfordshire Girl Guides during their camping expedition, the Great Patrol Hunt, in Potters Bar. The group of around 70 Guides, aged 10-15, was made up of several Patrols from across the county and the theme of the night’s event was ‘Girls Can Speak Out’.

Speaking afterwards, Oliver said: ‘I really enjoyed being invited to come and speak with our local Girl Guides. We spoke about the work of Parliament and organised a very interesting mock debate. We also discussed a whole range of issues from sport and education, to equal pay and employment.

‘I’m pleased that we have record numbers of women in Parliament following the most recent General Election. It’s important for girls to know that they play a vital part in our Parliamentary democracy and I was impressed by the Guides level of knowledge and interest throughout the evening.

‘I wish them the best of luck for the future and look forward to visiting again.’

The Guides, from Girlguiding Hertfordshire’s Central Division, were on one of their regular camping nights away which saw them taking part in a range of activities and learning useful new skills.

Anyone wanting to get involved with the Guides should visit the Hertfordshire Girlguiding website for more information at, www.girlguidinghertfordshire.org.uk.