Watson's Radio Club

1949-50 - J.M.M. (Robin) Stirling's Memories

 

               These notes were taken during a visit to his home in West Linton in 2011.

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Robin’s interest in radio started in 1946. The Watson's Radio Club was formally started by Mr John Hughes, Physics Master, in October 1947 and met in his Room 38 at the end of the physics corridor. Initially it was only a small group of about 7 members of which Robin was the first Secretary:

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1. J.M.M. (Robin) Stirling           -                    Secretary 1949-50

2. A.G.E. Allan.    

3. George H. Black                                           Later - G3XPQ

4. T.W.G. Calvert. 

5. Ian Fortin (d.)                                                

6. Bryan W.N. Harris                                       Later - G3GTF

7. A. J. Oliphant                                               Later - GM3SFH-SK 

8. H. Ian Wharton (d. ~1992)                                      

 

Meetings consisted of technical talks by Mr Hughes and Morse code practice sessions.

 

Robin used two amusing posters posted on a large notice board to advertise Radio Club meetings (see History section).

 

Short wave listening was a popular activity from home. Robin was RSGB Associate A-1007 and GM-1123 in the International Short Wave League (ISWL).

 

Robin built a portable receiver using four IT4 valves.

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The club made an interesting visit to the Police radio station on Blackford Hill.

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Robin remembers the local RSGB club (later – the Lothians Radio Society) met in Charlotte Square and participated in Field Days:

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                                         ~1947-48 – Pomathorn nr Penicuik                                                            

                                         ~1948-49 – Edinburgh Zoo

   

Robin’s impressive career consisted of:

                      RAE (Royal Aircraft Establishment) Farnborough (4 years):

                              - Sonobuoys; Guided weapons including Blue Steel

                      British Rail Research, Derby

                      Ireland

                              - Institute of Research and Standards, Medical Equipment.

                      Grimsby Hospital

                              - Head, Medical Physics

                      Retired, 1992.

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                                               Many thanks to Robin for sharing this.