Today I took part in the RSGB 144 MHz contest operating 10w and a 9e Tonna at 6m. The weather was warm and wet, with light rain. I decided to retreat into the boot for some /P Operating from the Kelvedon Hatch SNB contest site. The antenna was supported by the Racal PU12 mast. The band […]
50 MHz Sporadic E openings
As we enter the sporadic E season I noticed reports of stations being worked on 50 MHz. A quick look on my doublet confirmed activity, but the antenna was such a poor match it was hard work anyone. I decided to make a dipole that could be put up and taken down quickly, and this […]
Spring Bank Holiday Radio Weekend
Everyone loves a bank holiday weekend (unless you happen to be working) and last weekend was a 3 day radio event run by LEFARS. The event is based at the Rainbow and Dove PH, yes really a radio event in a pub garden ! The event used the special event call GB2LRS on 7 and […]
Upminster Windmill on the air
National Mills on the air weekend is a chance to combine amateur radio with the national windmills open day. Upminster windmill is our local mill, and it was a delight to operate on the green opposite the mill once again. The mill has stood on the green in various guises since 1803, and recently thanks […]
Essex Ham event at Shoeburyness Beach
I noticed the @essexham crew had tweeted that they would be operating radio from Shoeburyness on Sunday, and the weather forecast was looking good so I decided to head over and say hello. I had never operated from the car park (adjacent to the beach) at Shoeburyness, but was aware of the location as its […]
The only way is Essex Ham
Spent a very enjoyable Sunday with the crew from Essex Ham. The operating site is at Gallywood common near Chelmsford, and the operating is outdoors and subject to weather. The sun was shinning, and alfresco portable operating was possible. Stations included 2 HF, 1 VHF/UHF and 1 on 70 MHz. I opted for the 70 MHz station, […]