Last month we had the pleasure of a fascinating illustrated talk about Lundy given by Brian G4CIB, aided by his wife Leta G4RHK, both of whom are prominent and active members of the Gloucester club.
Lundy lies in the Bristol channel some two hours sailing time from Ifracombe in North Devon, it’s long and thin island about 3 miles north-to-south and about one quarter of a mile wide. There’s one pub, one shop and one landing stage. It’s had many owners over the years and is now in the hands of the National Trust but leased to the Landmark Trust as they are better placed to renovate and restore the old buildings which had been neglected by earlier owners. The only permanent resident on the island are employees of the Landmark Trust but there are a number properties of various sizes which are available for holiday lets and these have proved to be very popular. The island generates its own electricity using a large diesel engine which normally runs from 6am to mid-night. There are plans for a wind turbine, Lundy is a haven for wild-life, particularly puffins which have thrived since the non-indigenous black rats were eradicated several years ago.
Brian and Leta began holidaying on the island many years ago and quickly become so enchanted by the place that they’ve visited it every year, sometimes twice, ever since. They enjoy walking the island and watching the wild-life. And visiting the island’s pub! Radio gear is usually taken, which has to be lightweight because of baggage restrictions. Operation is usually fairly low-key with sessions around 7 to 9am and 4 to 5pm. Their next trip will be from 21st to 28th September.
The talk was very well received, members found it interesting and entertaining. We are very grateful to Brian and Leta for making the trip to Cheltenham to visit us. Incidentally instead of accepting expenses for their trip to us they asked that CARA make a donation to the Lundy Field Society which the club has now done – a nice gesture on their behalf.