Campaigning MP Nigel Evans has welcomed the decision by Girlguiding UK to reverse its plan to end activities in the British Overseas Territories.

He has now urged the organisation to perform a similar U-turn over the closure of Waddow Hall in his Ribble Valley constituency.

Last week Girlguiding UK announced its activities in the British Overseas Territories will stay part of Girlguiding.

The guiding in these areas (Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, Saint Helena and Ascension Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands) will be integrated into the structure of the Girlguiding North West England region and will be governed by the senior volunteers and staff in the region.

The original decision to put an end to the 100-year-old British Girlguiding Overseas operations was made last year and received criticism from several MPs.

Lancashire Telegraph: Nigel Evans at Waddow Hall with volunteersNigel Evans at Waddow Hall with volunteers

The decision came alongside the announcement by Girlguiding UK to close its five activity centres, one of which, Waddow Hall, is located near Clitheroe.

Its proposed closure has received criticism from the young people who enjoy its facilities along with condemnation from Mr Evans.

The House of Commons deputy speaker said: "I am absolutely delighted that Girlguiding UK has reversed the decision to end Girlguiding in the British Overseas Territories.

"The proposed closure would have shut down opportunities for thousands of girls in countries which have special links with the UK.

"Whilst this is a hugely welcome U-turn, the proposed closure of Girlguiding UK's five activity centres still remains, and I sincerely hope that in the reversal of this decision Girlguiding is also considering the reversal of the decision to close activity centres such as Waddow Hall.

"Waddow Hall, located in the Ribble Valley is an incredible establishment which for generations has provided the opportunity for guide groups from all over the country and especially from urban areas to visit a safe rural environment, hosting a range of outdoor activities and opportunities.

"The closure of Waddow Hall would be devastating not only for those in the Ribble Valley, but for all young people in surrounding areas who will miss out on the opportunity to visit this incredible site and the activities that it has to offer.

"Following this hugely welcome and sensible reversal in the closure of Girlguiding in the British Overseas Territories.

"I really hope that Girlguiding UK are looking at their decision to close their five Activity Centres including Waddow Hall, and that they will consider also u-turning on this decision which would have hugely negative consequences across the UK."