The History of URB circa September 1974 Radio York In 1968, students at York University received Ministry of Posts approval to test transmit programmes on medium wave to its campus. This inspired two Physics students at Lancaster to try a similar project, and negotiations were started with the university administration. Radio 220 The project was considerably put back when one rather over-eager member of the university started his own 'pirate' radio station, calling it firstly 'Radio 220', and later 'Radio Rag'. The Post Office eventually persuaded this to close down, and the job began of trying to persuade the university administration that the proposed 'Radio Bailrigg' was in no way connected with the 'pirate'. Preliminary Tests In 1969, the university gave permission, in principle, for the project to proceed. In the summer, a small loop aerial was installed, and a low power transmitter was built, to test the project's feasibility. Result: Feasible, but many problems. £1000 Referendum The next problem was finance. URB applied for the £1000 that the American Colleges give annually to a project that would be useful to the student community at Bailrigg. Many causes competed, and a referendum was held in which URB came 2nd to Playgroup. So next URB applied to the student union (SRC) for funds, but this was rejected as at that time, SRC was in dire financial straits. An approach to the university administration was also rejected. However, URB was provided with offices at this time. A Second £1000 A second £1000 from the American Colleges turned up, and URB again applied for this, and again came second. Meanwhile, it was found that the Playgroup scheme for which the first £1000 had been awarded would cost nearer £30,000! So that project was abandoned, and through support of SRC, URB was able to secure the £1000, through it was realised that URB would not be able to provide a full service using only this. Test Transmissions In January 1971, the aerial system was installed, and studio equipment and a converted transmitter obtained. In March test transmissions commenced, which led to numerous technical problems. Further equipment was purchased, and after further problems, URB was putting out regular test transmissions until November 1972, when a letter was received from the Government, ordering URB off the air for not having obtained a full license, which has not been possible with that aerial and transmitter system. Closedown and Adjustments A new transmitter was specially commissioned, and a new aerial system was installed. In November 1973, URB received a full license from the Government, and returned to the air with full programmes. New Studios URB had been broadcasting from a temporary studio, but in January 1974, new twin studios, which has been specially commissioned, were completed. However finance for the equipping of these was not forthcoming from the SRC. Another two £1000 referenda were held, but URB was unsuccessful for both. However, in June 1974, URB, sensing a very prosperous SRC, again applied for funds to purchase new studio equipment, and was successful in obtaining £1000. Also, for the first time, the university realised the educational potential of URB, with the Media Services Unit offering its resources in preparing a series of complete language courses for listeners, using the facilities of URB. |
