TEENAGERS are making waves at a new Hebburn-based radio club.

The North East Amateur Radio Club meets at Wardles Bar in Albert Street, Hebburn, between 7pm and 9pm each Monday.

Now its two youngest members have successfully passed their Foundation Radio licence examination.

Ashleigh Cockburn, 17, from Hebburn, who is a petty officer in the Merchant Navy Volunteer Cadets, and 13-year-old Ben Sewell, from South Shields, who attends Harton Technology College, were recently presented with their pass certificates from Hebburn South councillors Nancy Maxwell and Eddie McAtominey.

A club spokesman said: “We broke away from another club and are now operating very successfully from Wardles Bar.

“People who join learn about elements such as radio equipment, broadcasting and radio communications. We can even get involved in tracing satellites.

“Really, we are involved in what used to be called ‘ham’ radio, and we would invite anyone interested to come along any Monday night.”

The North East Amateur Radio Club has 18 members, drawn from Jarrow and Hebburn, South Shields, Boldon, Gateshead and Newcastle.

Members start off with basic instruction, including how to tune in a radio, before learning how to protect yourself from electric shocks.

Members can later move on to more advanced levels and get involved in radio communication projects.

The Hebburn club was only launched in January, but membership is picking up.

Members meet every Monday, except bank holidays.

For more details, call club vice-chairman Barry Hudson on 0771 775 8013.

Source: www.shieldsgazette.com - Terry Kelly
Photo: www.shieldsgazette.com - Terry Kelly