Volunteers Ian and Sue Bell have rather an unusual role with the RNLI – and have raised over £47,000 towards saving lives at sea

This active retired couple take care of the diverse range of jewellery and collectables donated to us by the public. With a passion for antiques and a wide range of contacts in the business, the duo are ideally placed to deal with the challenge.

The Bells’ volunteering began when, as RNLI Governor members who wanted to do a bit more for the charity, they answered the call for help from our Farnham Fundraising Branch. Ian became Vice-Chairman. In 2007 at short notice, they both got involved in its offshoot, the Jewellery Branch – set up after a Blue Peter appeal to deal with donated ‘treasure’. And when they relocated from Surrey to Wiltshire, they brought the Jewellery Branch with them.

They have dealt with a surprising array of items: gold, silver and costume jewellery; clocks and watches; old postcards, stamp collections; silver plate; medals; ceramics and memorabilia. Ian reveals: ‘We’ve received some intriguing items over the years including a set of false teeth complete with gold crown, a large and intricate pewter model of a stagecoach being robbed, and a resin horse’s head.’

Sadly, in the current financial climate, fewer items are being donated as people are turning to this potential new income source for themselves. But it can be a timeconsuming and frustrating process – one these volunteers are keen and able to take on. They sort the items and raise funds by the most appropriate routes, visiting auctions, selling on eBay, locating specialist dealers and passing some items to branches to sell at events.

In her spare time, Sue is a keen gardener while Ian is a member of the Lifeboat Enthusiasts’ Society and also volunteers on the Kennet and Avon Canal in Devizes. They live with their pet tortoise, Fred, and there are always children and grandchildren to catch up with too.

In 2009, these gems received the RNLI’s Record of Thanks – one of our highest awards to volunteers – for their outstanding support. In the same year, Ian received the Bronze Badge for his work in supporting the charity over many years.

Sue sums up: ‘You may not have a diamond tiara to give away, although that would be very nice, but if you’d like to help by donating your unwanted ‘jewels’, please package them up securely and send them to RNLI Headquarters. Ian and I look forward to hearing from you!’