IT was a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of equipment.
Radio fans filled Denby Dale Pie Hall for an auction of rare equipment.
And there was intense interest in the large collection of radio gear, dating from the 1920s to the present.
It was being sold by Denby Dale Amateur Radio Club at their annual sale which raised about £700 for the club.
Hard to find receivers and transmitters went under the hammer fetching as much as £160.
The majority of equipment, from an old military collection, was built around the 1940s and many similar examples were used during World War II.
These included an American-made AR88 and three British “19” sets, designed for use in armoured vehicles.
Despite its age, most of the gear was in working condition which radio fans, hoping to bag a bargain, were keep to snap up.
Club chairman and founding member Gerald Edinburgh said: “There is still a great deal of interest in old radios like these and amateurs still enjoy using them.
“Our sales have become well known for their social aspect as well as the variety and interest of the equipment.
“This year was exceptional because of some of the rare World War II equipment which is in short supply.
“Stuff like that usually goes for hundreds of pounds on Ebay.”
Amateur radio, or ham radio, is a hobby that has captivated the interest of countless thousands since its inception around 1898.
Amateurs have lead the field in radio development and are still trailblazing areas of technology.
Many radio amateurs or hams enjoy talking to friends around the globe while others enjoy constructing their own equipment.
The Denby Dale club meets the first and third Wednesday of each month in the Pie Hall.
For details call: Gerald on 01484 602 905.
