Radio touches our lives everyday. We listen to the radio in the car, we watch television, and we use cellular phones. These radio transmissions are travelling only a short distance and provide us with local and national coverage via a network of transmitters.

Wouldn't it be great to receive radio broadcasts from further afield; from Europe, America, Asia and even Australia? Most countries provide long distance broadcasts in a range of languages including English. To receive these broadcasts, all you need is a Short-wave Radio. These can be obtained from larger electrical stores and are often described as a World Band Radio. The hobby of listening to foreign radio stations is called Short Wave Listening.

Progressing to become a licensed Radio Amateur allows you to transmit as well as receive. Now you can talk direct to other licensed radio amateurs around the world as well as those in your local area using a Transceiver. This is a transmitter and receiver, all in the same box. Transceivers can be obtained from specialist amateur radio suppliers, or second-hand from small-ads in amateur radio magazines or at amateur radio rallies. You may even build your own!

OK, you're interested, but unsure of the next step. If you are local to Farnborough, Camberley, Aldershot or Farnham in Hampshire or Surrey in the United Kingdom, then we can help. The Farnborough & District Radio Society holds meetings at the Farnborough community centre on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of every month at 7:30 for 8:00pm. We can advise you on how to get started in the exciting world of amateur radio. The club also runs weekly 'nets' where club members chat over the air, allowing you to polish your radio skills in a supportive environment. Last and not least, we have a full programme of lectures on all subjects connected to radio communications.

Come to our next meeting without obligation and discover the fascinating world of amateur radio. We look forward to meeting you.