RNLI Jersey stalwart stands down

Philip first joined the RNLI as Honorary Treasurer on 1 March 1986 as a result of his role with the then Midland Bank, which had supported the RNLI locally since the end of the Second World War by filling that role from their employees. He followed his father into the role and recalls recognising his father's handwriting on accounts: "In my job at Midland Bank, I ‘inherited’ all the old hand written journals and cash books. I recognized my father’s dreadful writing!"

When Midland Bank closed their local branch some 17 years later, Philip decided to continue with the role and has held it for the subsequent 21 years.

The Branch Honorary Treasurer is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, promptly recording and banking all income using the RNLI’s online systems, issuing receipts, and ensuring all expenditure is properly controlled and supported. They must also produce timely reports, complete year-end summaries, comply with RNLI financial procedures, and safeguard funds by implementing proper controls and promptly reporting any suspected fraud.

Historically, payments to local crew and RNLI employees were managed through the Honorary Treasurer and, when RNLI HQ took control of that function centrally, Philip worked closely with the RNLI's Chief Officer of Payroll to ensure a smooth transition.

On occasion, recognising that the wheels of large organisations can turn slowly, Philip would ensure that local suppliers' bills were settled promptly from the local funds and then would chase down the Institution for recompense. Philip's tenacity in holding the RNLI to account for monies due locally was a frequent topic of discussion in Local Operations Management team meetings.

Nigel Sweeny, Lifeboat Operations Manager for RNLI Jersey recalled: "Philip's perseverance in holding the Head Office to account was well-recognised, both with the local Operations team but also at RNLI Headquarters. Inevitably for a large charity, roles would change and processes would be updated – however, Philip was relentless in ensuring that every penny due to RNLI Jersey was accounted for. His quiet presence and diligence to his role will be sorely missed by all of us at RNLI Jersey. We wish him well in his retirement."

Philip had previously been awarded a commemorative statuette and more recently, his 30 year Long Service Medal which was presented personally by Tom Mansell, Regional Lifesaving Lead for the RNLI, recognising Philip's many years of service.