The RSGB "Lighthouses on the Air" weekend was celebrated by CARS with an invitation by Andrew G0IBN to operate from the old Trinity Light Vessel 15 moored at Tollesbury on the Essex Marches.

Trinity Lightship 15
Photographs by John, G8DET

Fellowship Afloat's centre is a unique place for adventure, relaxation and exploring the environment.  Based on a converted light vessel moored on the coast, it's an ideal activity venue for youth clubs, schools, churches, special needs groups and those wishing to gain sailing qualifications.   Guests are served by the centre staff and expert volunteers who form the lively Christian community which is Fellowship Afloat.   Whether you just want to chill or do some serious stuff, "FACT" provides... more....

A nicely laid gravel path winds its way to the lightship - but it is still possible for it to flood at high tide & to get lost!

            The path which floods with Tollesbury in the distance.

Bradwell Decommisioned Nuclear Power Station in the distance across the River Blackwater

It is disconcerting to be surrounded by water!           

The 4 Operators before embarkation.
Steve, G4ZUL (left), Martyn, G1EFL; Rick, G3YEC & organiser Andrew, G0IBN.

                                    Going aboard.

Andrew operates from a cabin on the main deck.

Andrew and the CARS Members operated in a friendly atmosphere - rather than a contest - from around 0930 to 1530 on both days.

Most of the 230 contacts were from Europe, they included Moldova, Spain, Sweden, Czech,European Russia, Poland,Austria.   The latter Radio Amateur was in his car and gave us 20db over, as did most countries, so G3GLL's whip aerial on the helicopterdeck, surrounded by the River Blackwater Estury, did well.

Martyn was masterful with his SSB skills, Steve, Rick and I did CW. On the Sunday morning Jeremy and I alternated between SSB and CW. Report by Andrew, G0IBN.

Andrew, G0IBN (left) Martyn, G1EFL with the microphone and Steve, G4ZUL

The Vertical Aerial was provided by Andrew
on Friday on the Helicopter Deck.    

John, G8DET and Wife, Pauline
Photograph by Andrew

            The Power Control Board in the Engine Room.
It is all fully functional - Note the Makers name - made in Chelmsford.

The all important Batteries for Standby

The last remaining reminder of its Operational days at sea.    

The Lounge

                              The Deck forward.

The Mast.

Martyn operating SSB, prior to this it was CW.