What is involved in running a successful RNLI branch and how does it work? Lifeboat speaks to two branch officials from very different corners of the Institution - John Dennison, chairman of Uckfield and Heathfield branch in Sussex, and Patrick Carter, chairman of Sligo branch in the Republic of Ireland...How do you find new branch members and are there any difficulties or issues with enlisting new recruits? John: Initially, by writing to Shoreline members in the area and asking for volunteers. Secondly, by word of mouth to friends and acquaintances and continually via our local volunteer bureau. Difficulties can be encountered when candidates volunteer and turn out to be unreliable.

Patrick: We find branch members through committed RNLI friends and never seem to have any problems enlisting willing volunteers.

How do you divide up the work of the committee using the talents of your members? John: Each committee member has a specific duty which is. in most cases, agreed before joining and others assist when the need arises.

Patrick: Committee members offer to to be involved at a level appropriate to their own abilities, strengths and contacts.

How do you draw up a fundraising programme and are you able to include new ideas? John: Some events become annual. For instance, a wine tasting 'Call my bluff run by the local wine shop before Christmas or a summer band concert.

Other events are run on an opportunity basis such as a street collection on the anniversary of the recent Uckfield floods.

Patrick: New ideas are always encouraged and we rely on past experience and the suggestions brought to committee meetings.

Are you able to promote the RNLI by using the local media, giving presentations or in some other way? John: The local media often report on a recent event and we try to slip in a note of something forthcoming. I do give presentations to many local organisations including Wl, scouts, schools, adult education organisations and the like.Patrick: Yes. There is excellent cooperation between our branch and the local media - they are always kept well informed of all our local events and we are always willing to give presentations to the public.

How do keep the morale of your branch up and your members well informed? John: Six-weekly meetings are held in a relaxed atmosphere with coffee, tea or wine available.

Whilst a standard formal agenda is used, this is very flexible and gives everyone a chance to speak.

Patrick: Promoting good communication through regular, good-humoured, committee meetings. Our meetings are held about every two weeks - discussion is open, light-hearted (at times), friendly and work-like.

Are you able to enlist the help of 'fundraising friends' who are not necessarily members of the branch? John: Yes. Supporters always help with flag days and door-to-door collections and local pubs regularly run events for us. At the pubs, collection boxes are often used as 'swear boxes'. Misuse of mobile phones and knocking bar billiard balls off the table are good examples of fines put in the boxes.

Patrick: Yes, this has happened on many occasions in the past with the running of events and many more are planned for the future.

How did you first become involved with your branch? John: On retirement, my local area organiser asked me to attend the branch AGM. I did and something went badly wrong as I came out as chairman! Patrick: Through sailing and good sailing friends. I assisted at the branch with other members for some years and accepted nomination of chairman at the request of my RNLI friends..