A new road is to be named in memory of a former guide leader and “pillar of the community”.

Thelma Harris, of Hemington Avenue, Friern Barnet, led the Fourth Friern Barnet Guides for 40 years until she retired in 1980.

She also ran a Monday Club for the over 55s and volunteered at a day centre in Friern Barnet Lane before her death in 1997 at the age of 83.

Her goddaughter, Helen Edwards, has successfully campaigned to have a new private road, built partly on the site of Thelma Harris’ garden, named Harris Close.

Mrs Edwards, 56, also of Hemington Avenue, said: “She was one of those pillars of the community. I thought it would be a nice idea to name the road in her memory.

“She was a well-known local person, and I think people will appreciate having it in her name.”

To mark the occasion, a guide reunion, for members during Ms Harris’ era, has been organised for Sunday, May 31 at the Guide and Scout Hut in Stanford Road, Friern Barnet.

The afternoon will include the showing of films taken by Ms Harris from 1967 to 1980, which include the demolition of the old guide and scout hall in Goldsmith Road and the building of the new one, as well as camping holidays and gang shows.

Anyone interested in attending the reunion can get in touch with Helen Edwards on 07802 709081.