GB3SM RB13, Staffordshire Moorlands.
Since the earlier part of this week (the 5th or 6th of July 2010) transmissions originating from a Hospital Pager system have appeared on the input frequency of the GB3SM repeater and whilst the said offending signal is not particularly strong in strength it is never the less perfectly audible involving a combination of both data and voice content such as Cardiac Arrest, Maternity and A&E etc, including personal details of patients, all helping to provide a clue to the Hospitals Location.
The transmission is on the actual input frequency of the repeater, "IT IS DEFINITELY NOT A MIX". It is originating from a location 190 degrees (South) of the repeater site at Ipstones Edge near Alton Towers, possibly located in the West Midlands or surrounding area. As the repeater site is located at 1140 feet ASL, the line of sight coverage footprint is extensive.
It is my intention to inform OFCOM of the rouge transmission and whilst I have no idea to exactly what OFCOM may decide to do to the company concerned such as fine them etc, but personally speaking, I would much prefer castration of the owners of the company responsible for this total blatant disregard of the Radio Spectrum with respect to ourselves the Licensed Stakeholder.
However and now this is the interesting bit, should those that wish to practise radio just as it used to be practised many years ago, then the opportunity exists complete with the aid of a small beam type aerial to test your skills at direction finding. Just listen on the input from two or three conveniently placed high locations, complete with map and compass and go for it. At this stage I can't say there will be a prize for the first to locate the transmission, but at least you will certainly feel the satisfaction of knowing you were successful in locating the offending transmitter.
73,
Geoff, G8DZJ.