[Silver Fox Phil]

Quite honestly I see no issue with being a member before becoming a volunteer. For one, anyone who volunteers does so because they want to offer the railway support, in addition they do it because they enjoy it too. So becoming a member does the same job! Its supporting your heritage railway by "paying much needed cash" to enable continued operations!
Therefor I see no issue at all with being both! I am a member of the Patriot Project, and offer my services on occasion to assist raising funds on the trade stands. I'd like to offer more time but can't yet! So by being a member and monthly contributor, I am able to continue my support to get the project up and running.
Hope some of you can offer the NRM some of your time, because without you we would have nothing to see and visit.
All the best
Phil