LIFEBOATS' PRESIDENT: At the annual meeting of North Cotswold branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution in Moreton, Mr Paul Ayshford Sanford was appointed president to succeed Admiral Sir Peter Herbert, who retired from the branch after 14 years' service. Mr Ayshford Sanford was the founder chairman of the branch for 10 years from 1972 and at the meeting gave a talk on the fund-raising events that took place at that time, and he paid tribute to the many helpers involved.

Mrs Sheila Lloyd announced that the South West Region, which includes the North Cotswold branch, will be attempting to raise £200,000 over two years to pay for the professional training of crews and lifeguards on the sophisticated equipment that they now use in their rescue operations. This special fund-raising campaign is hoped to be achieved by encouraging supporters of the RNLI to participate in sponsored fitness challenges and is ideal for schools, youth groups, societies and individuals aiming to get fit while contributing to the charity. Anyone interested in taking up a fitness challenge of their choice should contact Tamsin Thomas on 07786 668847

This year's RNLI flag week in the North Cotswolds will be held during the week beginning July 5 and the RNLI will be represented at Shipston's Festival of the Sea on Saturday, August 21.