A lifesaving charity has signalled its own call for help in finding new volunteers.

East Anglian Daily Times: The Lifeboat Guild in Aldeburgh is looking for more volunteers for the shop.The Lifeboat Guild in Aldeburgh is looking for more volunteers for the shop. (Image: Sarah Lucy brown)

The Aldeburgh and District Lifeboat Guild was founded 54 years ago – but it now faces a recruitment challenge.

In 2015, more than £91,000 was raised at the lifeboat shop, run for the last eight years by Rosemary Trigg.

Following her retirement, the guild launched a search for someone to take over. Meanwhile, no one was found to take the place of Veda Crane, who recently stood down as acting guild chairman after two years. Following the 54th AGM, she said: “Of more immediate importance is the lifeboat shop. Rosemary Trigg, who has run the shop for eight years in an entirely voluntary capacity, has now retired and we are seeking someone to take her place.

“This position would ideally suit someone who has recently retired and would like to help raise funds for the lifeboats.

“Our shop is eighth in the countrywide league table and last year raised £91,286.

“We urgently need someone with the commitment and dedication to take over the reins.”

Annie Groves, RNLI visitor experience manager for the east region, said the fundraising activities of the guild and retail element of the RNLI were essential to the service. She added: “Why not come and join a fun and friendly team doing something worthwhile for your community?

“You will receive first class training in whatever role you take, with ongoing guidance and support, while learning new skills, meeting new people and helping save lives at sea.”

Anyone interested in volunteering to run the shop should call 01728 452552 or email aldeburgh@rnli.org.uk for further information.

To express an interest in joining the guild committee, contact secretary Viv Holt on 01728 688448.