A popular Maldon district family attraction has launched a new exhibition telling the fascinating story of the contribution to the national effort made by Girl Guides in the First World War.

The new display, officially opened over the Easter weekend at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome, brings the little-known story to light as well as highlighting the importance of the Girl Guide movement in bringing about positive change in society's attitudes to the lives of girls and young women in Edwardian Britain.

Adding to Stow Maries' already impressive list of engaging and interesting displays, 'Guiding the Empire' tells how Girl Guides helped in the Great War effort, from life-saving action after bombing raids to top secret work for the War Office.

Funded largely by local charity the Fowler Smith Jones Trust, the exhibition features fascinating objects from the period and is accompanied by an exciting activity plan, funded by the Essex Community Trust and designed specifically for it.

Girlguiding Region Chief Commissioner, Tracy Foster, said: "We are very happy to see the proud history of Girlguiding being celebrated in this way. Girlguiding has and always will strive to support girls and young women to be the best they can be, and here we see Guides doing their very best at a time when they are most needed. It is an inspiration to the thousands of Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and Rangers across Britain today."

Guest Curator, Catherine Tranter, added: "It is said that 'the more you know of the past, the better prepared you are for the future'. The early days of Girlguiding, led by Agnes Baden-Powell, remind us that given the opportunity, the skills and the support, many positive changes are possible.

"I hope that by sharing these surprising stories, visitors will look forward to making positive changes of their own."

The exhibition is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and is part of the regular admission to the site. Rangers, Guides, Brownies and Rainbows in uniform can enjoy free admission.

For more information about visiting Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome visit www.stowmaries.org.uk