Pupils transmit to other enthusiasts (From Penarth Times)

Pupils transmit to other enthusiasts

A DINAS Powys school has set up an amateur radio station to mark National Science Week.

Murch Junior School have put a radio room together to transmit signals across the UK.

They are taking part in the science project in association with local amateur radio enthusiast Dennis Egan.

The 78-year-old from Dinas Powys said: "I have been an interested by radio since I was in the army signals in the Second World War.

"I have had licence to transmit for 22 years so I can operate the radio at Murch School.

"Already the children have spoken to other pupils in Rickworth,West Yorkshire which was fascinating for them.

He added: "All this week I have been helping the children to speak to radio users and it has been a very rewarding experience"

All the children who took part were fascinated by the radio and expressed there interest at speaking to people on the airwaves using the transmission code GB2003SET.

Headmaster Charles Davies said: "It is great for the kids to be able to speak directly with people.

"Maybe they will be interested in amateur radio in the future.

"Communication is very important and the radio is more personal than a computer email." Pupil Jeff Maddox, 11, who transmitted to a 'Jim' in St Ives, said: "I thought it was very interesting and I enjoyed speaking to him. But I am not sure that I would get a radio myself. Although it is better than being in lessons."