THE RNLI’s fundraising team are on the lookout for a dedicated volunteer crew. Volunteers are the heart of the RNLI and make up 95 per cent of its people.

The volunteers are ordinary people who do extraordinary things and without them, the organisation couldn’t continue to save lives at sea.

There are many other ways people can give a little or a lot of their time to support the RNLI and make their own lifesaving difference.

Maddy Taylor, a volunteer at Minehead RNLI, said: "I really love being involved with fundraising for the Minehead lifeboat. Everyone is so friendly and we have a great time when we have fundraising events.

"I joined the fundraising team in 2022 and met some of the fundraising team at the May monthly meeting. Being included made me feel part of the team and it was nice to get to know some of the other volunteers.

"It’s a very worthwhile cause and no matter how little or how much you are able to do, it is always appreciated."

In Ilminster, Gillian Pavey has been volunteering since 2010 and is now treasurer and secretary for her branch.

She said: "I work in a nursery and feel I can use this to help with my volunteering. I am used to talking to lots of different people which I do in both of these roles.

Somerset County Gazette: Gillian Pavey is a Volunteer at Ilminster. RNLI is currently looking for new volunteers.Gillian Pavey is a Volunteer at Ilminster. RNLI is currently looking for new volunteers. (Image: RNLI)

"I enjoy the flexibility of volunteering as I can choose how often to do events and the time, I can commit to volunteer around my full-time job.

"I like the fact that all the stock is ready to go and I can do events whenever I wish. I also enjoy how fun it is and worthwhile for a great cause."

Dave Nicoll, RNLI fundraising partnership lead said: "Without our volunteers, the RNLI simply would not be able to operate the way it does today.

"With 92% of the RNLI’s income coming from donations, the charity relies on the generosity of supporters and on the dedication of our fundraising volunteers to help raise essential funds."

"Some of our fundraisers have been volunteering for many years while some just join us for a few months in the year depending on what their commitments allow."

"We now really need to bolster that support and grow our volunteer fundraising crew. If you like to have fun, enjoy meeting new people and want to join a motivated and enthusiastic team, we encourage you to find out more and apply."

Touching on what the role offers, he said: "You will learn new skills, gain experience and have the rewarding satisfaction of giving back. The RNLI will also provide all the necessary training and support so you can carry out your chosen role effectively."

To find out more about how you can sign up to be a fundraising volunteer at the RNLI, or to apply, click on this link rnli.org/OneCrewVolunteers