Dartmouth at Work - Angela Bush and Pauline John, RNLI Visitor Centre
How long have you ladies been volunteering here at the Visitor Centre?
Angela: Two years
Pauline: A little longer, so it must be about two and a half years.
For people who have never been in here tell us what it’s all about?
Angela: It’s a place to come and learn more about how the RNLI works and, hopefully, go away with important sea safety messages like ‘always wear a life jacket’. We have videos showing real life rescues, testimonials, facts and figures and a D class lifeboat for children to climb on.
Pauline: We also have lots of things to buy; notepads, pens, tasty treats, magnets and children’s toys.
Why did you choose to volunteer here?
Angela: My husband has always had boats. We have never had to call out the RNLI, but I felt it was appropriate for me to help the charity. It’s so important to spread the safety messages, especially amongst young people. If we can just save one life through our Visitor Centre - it’s worth it.
Pauline: You meet so many different people. They come from all over the world and have some great stories to tell. Some come in and they aren’t sure what the place is, then stay for an hour.
Do people keep coming back?
Angela: Definitely, we get families who visit year after year. The children love dressing up as lifeboat crew and climbing in and out of the boat. The parents take lots of photos. We give the youngsters a badge at the end. We also get locals who like to pop in and have a chat and maybe pick up a few gifts.
What is your best seller?
Pauline: Definitely Christmas cards! We will get this year’s collection in soon. We also sell a lot of crab buckets and mini shopper bags.
Is it a big team?
Angela: There are 30 of us. We have two shifts a day and two people on each shift. One person can show people around and help families on the boat, whilst the other looks after the till.
Pauline: There is quite a lot to do. We have to sort out stock, fill up the shelves, check the dates on food products and put back the equipment each time after everyone has played with it.
Do you all meet up socially?
Angela: There are a few organised events each year like a pub quiz at the Dartmouth Arms and a skittles night. We get to see other volunteers at the summer fete, which takes place in the Royal Avenue Gardens.
What time of year do you like the best in the centre?
Angela: The summer. I like it when it’s busy and there are lots of people milling around and asking questions. We are open all year round and it can be quite quiet in the winter with only two or three people through the door during the morning.
What do you do when you aren’t here?
Angela: I have three grandchildren so they keep me busy.
Pauline: We are adding an extension to our house at the moment, so that takes up a lot of my time. I also love gardening.
What is your tipple of choice?
Angela: White wine
Pauline: Red wine
The Visitor Centre is in need of more volunteers – if it’s for you ring 01803 832423
First published By The Dart May 2018 Issue
