RNLI jewellery appeal

The RNLI are seeking public donations for their Jewellery Appeal.

All unwanted jewellery, medals and collectables can help fund the charity's life-saving work, they say.

The charity's ongoing Jewellery Appeal is now entering its 22nd year.

Some of the more unusual past donations include a set of dentures on gold mount, war medals, mother-of-pearl theatre binoculars, an 1837 hallmarked fish-knife and a Victorian bakelite locket containing a lock of hair.

The donations are sold at auctions or fetes to raise funds for
essential training and equipment for RNLI volunteer crews.

The appeal was started on TV by Blue Peter and, since then, has relied on word-of-mouth, RNLI volunteers and fundraisers to keep the momentum going.

Maren Caldwell, RNLI Head of Regional Fundraising and Communications, says: "The RNLI as a charity relies on public generosity to help its volunteer crews.

"This appeal is a fine example of the support we receive - the range of items sent in has been fantastic.

"Every donation plays a vital role in helping the RNLI to continue saving lives at sea."

The appeal was run since 1986 by Roy Norgrove, who died last year, and has been carried on by other volunteers.

Items should be sent to Karen Ketley, Appeal Co-ordinator, RNLI, West Quay Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 1HZ.

Tel: 0800 534210.

www.rnli.org.uk

Motor Boat and Yachting , Motor Boat and Yachting, 29 April 2008