Can I join?

Anyone can be considered for membership, though most members have a strong interest in amateur radio. Most members have an Amateur Radio Licence (not the same as a CB Licence).

Can only licensed amateurs join?

No, people without a Licence are welcome and can play an active part. Most such members aim to pass the Radio Amateur Examination and get their Amateur Radio Licence. M3/6 licence holders can play a part with RAYNET they can operate a checkpoint or under the supervision of a full licence holder they operate control.

What does Keighley RAYNET do?

Keighley RAYNET Group provides radio communications for about ten events per year. These are such things as fun-runs, marathons, car rallies, fell races, Cycle racing, long distance walks and occasional Exercises. Many of these events are operated jointly with nearby RAYNET groups. Keighley RAYNET Group is ready to provide communications for the user service in the event of emergencies such as storms or floods. Fortunately, these are rare in Keighley, Skipton, and the Dales.

Who is the user service?

The user services are the British Red Cross, St John Ambulance, the St Andrew's Ambulance Association, the Women's Royal Voluntary Service, the Salvation Army, any Government Department, any Category 1 responder, and any Category 2 responder as defined in the Civil Contingencies Act (2004).

What is expected of members?

Members are expected to try and provide their own equipment. (Keighley RAYNET Group does own a limited amount.) and to attend some events each year.

What can you expect to get out of it?

You can expect to get a lot of operating experience, passing messages for others. (If you have never really enjoyed chatting on a net, you may well find you enjoy operating a lot more when there is a purpose to it.) You may find that your operating practices improve as you find your shortcomings under heavy traffic conditions. You will probably find that you decide to build a lot of minor pieces of equipment - power leads, battery boxes, adapters of various kinds ... (If you have never got round to building things, you may find that this gives you the incentive to get started.) You will also get an excuse to use your radio equipment in the attractive environment of the Yorkshire Dales, meeting and working with different people. Walking and maybe a night or two camping!

How can you join? The easiest way is to join is to come to the Keighley Amateur Radio Society on Thursday night at 20:00. Or if you would like your name added to our email list Add me to the list