Malcolm rekindles memories with a talk on our history - and that massive bedstead

By Richard Blandford, M0RBG

Club members were whisked back in time last night for a talk on the history of Denby Dale Amateur Radio Club by Malcolm, G0ISX.

It started with pictures of past events at the beginning of the club. They included numerous rallies, special events and even a trip on Whitby lifeboat during a weekend on the coast.

The club, whose original home was the famous Pie Hall, Denby Dale, was very active supporting local scouts and brownie groups and helped many of the youngsters obtain their amateur radio licences. Some are still members of the club today.

One picture in particular showed a massive ‘bedstead’ two-metre antenna atop a huge wooden tower. Allegedly the tower was purchased from the Corporation and was used to maintain trolleybus overhead wires. It was certainly effective and was used in many contests with contacts throughout Europe, quite a feat in those days.

Malcolm then covered the 25th Anniversary dinner at the George Hotel and many other activities up to the recent Golden Anniversary celebrations.

A video, shot in the early years, concluded the talk showing nostalgic events in the club’s history and featuring members both past and present, a real journey through the history our club.

Malcolm's excellent talk – for which we thank him – formed one of our monthly meetings at the Golden Cock, Farnley Tyas. These events are open to everyone, club members or not.