The Guild was formed in 1962 under the name of the “Lifeboat Ladies’ Guild”.  The Chairman was the Mayoress, Mrs. Dudley Knowles.  A newspaper cutting about the formation reads – “Aldeburgh is to have yet another organisation for the ladies of the town.  Certainly no-one in Aldeburgh has any excuse to be bored, for there is so much going on that everyone can find something to keep themselves busy.” 

In those days, the AGM of the Guild was held in the cinema.  The Chairman’s Report mentioned a Tea Duty – “there have been four occasions when Guild members have welcomed the boat home after a call, giving the crew hot tea, cigarettes etc,  On one occasion when the boat returned at 1.30 am, we were somewhat anxious as to whether we would be “on the ball” and ready with the tea on time.  Actually, we dared not go to bed in case we failed to hear the rockets recalling the boat, but all was well and with the co-operation of the Coastguard, who telephoned me as soon as they were on the way home, the kettle was boiled and the tea ready on time.

Shipwash Christmas Gifts - The Guild was very pleased to be able to help the Crew with their annual efforts of collecting Christmas Fare to take to the Shipwash Lightship.  A letter of grateful thanks was received from the Crew of the Shipwash. 

Comfort Fund - The object of the Fund was to provide those little extra comforts such as cigarettes, tea etc.  Members have knitted woollen hats for each Crew member and towelling scarves have also been provided.  Souvenir sales were found to be a useful way of raising money.  The Guild raised nearly £500 in its first year.” What a wonderful beginning for our present day Guild which raises over £100,000 every year.

Donations may be made in cash or by cheque payable to ‘Aldeburgh RNLI Guild’  and deposited at or mailed to the shop or boat-shed at Aldeburgh Lifeboat, Crag Path, Aldeburgh, Suffolk IP5 5BP. Gift aid increases the Donation if you are a Tax payer and relevant forms are available at the shop.