On Saturday 11th April 2015 twenty Chard branch members had a social visit to the RNLI College in Poole. The weather was good for them and it made for a pleasant run down to Poole.
All members were surprised to see just how modern and futuristic the building was. On arrival they were shown to one of the two bars/cafes where they partook in light refreshments before mustering in the main reception area to be greeted by their two guides for the day.
The guided tour was given over a period of one and half hours where members were given the opportunity of coxing on the very realistic simulator both in fine weather and stormy sea conditions. The Dunk Tank was very impressive although at the time was not in use. Also shown was one of the bedrooms on offer to resident students and also on offer for bookings to the public for overnight stays (on par with Premier Inn but with sea views and immaculate).
On completion of the tour the party adjourned to the bar/café for their lunch. After lunch the group were taken to the Quay area and were free to wonder/shop. Five male members managed to locate two Pussers ships in port and went to investigate. Both HMS Dasher and Express were alongside, astern of each other and the University Officer Cadets manning them were busy hosing down and cleaning ship. It was most pleasant having conversation with the boys and girls aboard but very strange as none of them had been born at the time of us having left the service (hell we are old!!)
A very pleasant drive back was given by our driver and Treasurer S/M Mike Kirkland and all left feeling happy and pleased that they made the trip which is thoroughly recommended by the branch to those having not visited the RNLI College Poole.
