Wales News – 26 January 2014

As you will know, all radio amateurs are required to revalidate their licence at least every five years. The process to do this requires every licence holder to contact Ofcom to confirm or update the details on the licence database. This process has been underway for some time and to date some 52 percent of licences have been successfully revalidated.

The quickest way to revalidate is to do so online via the Ofcom website at www.ofcom.org.uk, or by email to amateur.validations@ofcom.org.uk. This can be done at any time. If you need assistance in the process, Ofcom staff are available to help, but their limited availability means that the workload needs to be staggered to avoid undue delays. There will thus be a phased approach during the coming months during which time regional campaigns will be held to encourage all licensees who have not yet revalidated to do so. Now is the time for all amateurs who live in Scotland, Northern Ireland or Wales to revalidate their licences if they have not already done so.

Please note that although amateur radio licences are now classed as ‘lifetime’, revalidation is compulsory. Ofcom have advised that any licences that remain unvalidated by a yet-to-be-agreed date will be considered as lapsed. After this time, licences will need to be renewed and a fee of £20 will be charged.

On Thursday Aberystwyth and District Amateur Radio Society is holding a club night on the air from 8pm on 145.500 then 145.550MHz. Details from Ray, GW7AGG, on 01970 611 853.

On Thursday Marches Amateur Radio Society is contemplating computers and amateur radio, and whether they mix. Contact the club secretary, by email to marchesars@hotmail.co.uk.

Category: News for North Wales, News for South Wales