THREE SCALE WORKING MODEL lifeboats meet on the water; each is radio controlled, powered by twin 6v electric motors; each is painted in authentic RNLI colours; and each has been made by a Lifeboat Enthusiast.

The model of the 42' Watson Mabel E. Holland, Dungeness, (left) was built by Roi Spurrell of Beckenham and has been launched into the sea alongside the real Mabel E. Holland during Dungeness lifeboat week. She is 1 : 1 scale, LOA 42" and the hull is constructed of double diagonal planking using 2mm ply on " marine ply bulkheads with " x " mahogany ribs. The superstructure isY ply and solid mahogany. Working navigation lights are included.

The 52' Barnett Joseph Hiram Chadwick, Galway Bay, (centre) was modelled by David Reed of Crofton Park, London, in her original form. Built to 16th scale, LOA 40", the hull is of two layers of mahogany planks laid on |" mahogany ply bulkheads. The deck is 2 mm marine ply and the main superstructure is a combination of mahogany planking and marine ply. She carries navigation and deck flood lights.

The model of the 48' 6" Oakley Ruby and Arthur Reed, Cromer, (right) was built by Brian King of Weybridge, to whom we are indebted for the photograph of the three boats. Hull, deck and most of the superstructure are of GRP ; just the wheelhouse is of 2 mm marine ply. The radar scanner revolves with the aid of a small electric motor and gearing reduces the revolutions to the correct scale speed.

For the fittings of these meticulous models, copper, brass, perspex, obechie, plastic, steel, aluminium and balsa have all been brought into use.

All these models play their part in fund raising for the lifeboat service..