Let’s all help the RNLI

We reported last week on a brilliant idea to raise funds for the RNLI, which plays such a vital role in our area.

It is called Betty’s Pots after the late Betty Frith from Hertford, and involves people collecting 5p coins in mini jam jars.

Oban fundraisers Phil Hamerton and Alison Rennie, with help from others, have collected more than 400 pots so far but have put out an SOS for more so they can be re-labelled and put to good use.

They go live on April 1 and it is anticipated that it will be a long-running campaign. Among the town’s businesses which have already got on board are The Little Potting Shed, Costa, Atlantis Leisure Centre and CGL office supplies.

Full jars can also be taken along to the RNLI station to be emptied said Mr Hamerton, who added it is also a good way to recycle.

Betty’s Pots have already helped Durham RNLI branch raise more than £85,000 in just over three years.

At The Oban Times we have already started collecting the 5ps in the wee jars, with everyone happy to donate their spare change.

No one will miss the occasional 5p but it is amazing how quickly the collected coins mount up.

Our lifeboats are crucial to maritime areas such as this and deserve the widest support. I would urge everyone to get behind the effort and start to donate.