The Coastguard Association A VOLUNTARY national organisation to look after the interests of Coastguards is now in process of formation. Entitled 'The Coastguard Association', it will be open to all serving and retired regular and auxiliary Coastguards and to all 'who have the interest of Coastguards at heart'. Its objects will be to promote, foster and retain the comradeship which exists among Coastguards, and to provide material assistance for any member suffering from haidship. Social events will be organised to keep in touch with retired Coastguards.

The first local branch of the Coastguard Association was formed in the Isle of Man in 1972 and other branches have been formed at Rhyl, Fleetwood, Spurn Point, Gorleston, Walton and Clacton, Formby and Bridlington. Others are being formed and it is hoped that more will follow in other parts of the country.

A national organisation with an executive committee has been elected to co-ordinate the activities of local branches on a national scale. The first national chairman is John Douglas, Chief Inspector, HM Coastguard, and the honorary secretary is Alan Scoltock, District Officer, Formby..