Lynton and Barnstaple - Operations and Development

And hence we get back to the quite diverse nature of the L&B line. It's very complex situation where not everyone can be pleased.

 

That sounds just like one of my wife's 'requirements' for a 'domestic improvement' - I have to guess what is needed, then she tells me afterwards that I've got it wrong

 

And the I think is The big reason wherever you are. Boards can be hyper political or Napoleonic or secret societies or even "Dictators 'R' us" (to use the current, horrible, 'cool' (?) misuse of the poor letter R) Boards can be hidden away in some dark room somewhere in HQ or even meet off the railway or whatever. All this makes the idea of joining a board to seem like joining a secret society which most people don't want. Boards need to be open, members should make the effort to make themselves visible and approachable. Infighting is not acceptable. If that is what the chairman allows (or does) then he/she needs to step down or grow up. Good leadership makes things work smoother, board members usually have a better relationship with each other (despite differences) and things get done. A volunteer seeing a board run like this and, having had opportunities to chat to members, might be more inclined. Also this idea that board members must have some high-flying, super powerful previous management experience is a farce and does scare people off. What is needed are people with a knowledge of the railway (or whatever) to bring the information to the board of how your place runs, what is needed, and how they can help to make things happen in their area of interest rather than how some book or failed manager who expects a seat on the board simply because they once had job title that included the word "Manager" says it should be run. There is plenty of quality information, help and guidance out there (some even on-line!) too help anyone with a brain get started. It's not difficult.