A YOUNG section of the Girlguiding unit in West Devon could face possible closure if a new assistant leader cannot be found to support the group. The 1st North Tawton Rainbows, for five to seven year olds, is not lacking in members with a full unit, including children from Copplestone and Crediton, and a waiting list of children, but with a change in leadership and the upcoming retirement of a current leader, a new leader is urgently required to keep the unit running. The 1st North Tawton Rainbows was formed in 2007 by Lin Warre. Since that time Lin and Janet Jarvis have been running the unit, currently with 17 girls. The leaders are all volunteers and with Janet set to be leaving this term and Lin nearing retirement age, another assistant leader is needed as a minimum of two adults are required to run the unit. Samantha Penny is currently training to take over the leadership from Lin. She said: 'So far all efforts to recruit an assistant leader have been unsuccessful and without an assistant in the next year, we may have to close the unit. 'We already have a full unit so many children and families would miss out on a wonderful service to the community that teaches children great values in a fun and inclusive way. 'Every week I see a group of young girls grow in confidence, form friendships and most importantly, have fun. 'We have children on the waiting list from surrounding villages that want to come to North Tawton Rainbows and without a new volunteer assistant we will have to close the unit. 'The nearest to us is Crediton, and they have a waiting list of more than a year! 'We already have three children on our waiting list, and with other local units also full, if we were to close there would be a dire shortage in this charitable service to the community.' If anyone feels they have time to donate to help North Tawton Rainbows continue to provide the much-needed service to local young girls, they can contact Lin Warre on 01837 820089 for more information. The assistant leader must be female as per Girlguiding regulations and the unit will welcome anyone that is enthusiastic and enjoys working with children and being part of a team. The Rainbows do a lot of arts and crafts, but any child friendly skills or hobbies would be welcomed, but none are necessary.