Special Event Stations
In recognition of the historic events that took place in 1935 and 1940 which played a significant part in Britain’s war effort, Bawdsey Manor will be activated on three separate occasions during 2010. See the pdf file Saved by Thunderstorms here for the history.
During its time as the radar research centre and as an operational station for Chain Home radar, it was known by the acronym BRS – Bawdsey Research Station. Special event callsigns with BRS as the suffix have been applied for to recognise this.
Over the weekend of 26 to 28 Feb 2010, we were on the air on HF, 6m and VHF, operating CW, SSB and some digital modes too. The callsign was GB75BRS, since this operation was to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Daventry Experiment, which resulted in radar development in the UK being based first at Orfordness, then at Bawdsey.
In June we operated GB70BRS to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the start of the Battle of Britain in 1940.
We will also commemorate the end of the Battle of Britain during the weekend 11/12 Sept again using GB70BRS. Please note the change of date! Operating bands and modes will be similar to those used at the February event. The Bawdsey Radar Museum will also be open on Sunday 12 Sept.
Members of the public, and students from the school now based at the Manor, are welcome at any of the events, where there will also be display materials relating to Bawdsey’s history during this period. The booking form for the September event is now open. NB it is essential to book – no casual visitors allowed.
A special QSL card will be issued to those making contact with either of the stations, and a parchment certificate will be available on request to stations who make contact with both callsigns – information about the stations, operation and QSL arrangements will be found on this web site.
Bawdsey Radar Museum is just down the road. Well worth a visit. Check their website for opening times.
See also Subterranea Britannica and Chain Home.
Stenigot Chain Home Amateur Radio Club
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