Sussex RAYNET is a group of licensed radio amateurs who, on a voluntary basis, make themselves and their radio equipment available to provide communications in emergency situations and for community events, particularly at times when communication by other means may be difficult or impossible.
Sussex 4×4 Response is a registered charity the members of which use their own four wheel drive vehicles to provide transportation for health service staff in adverse weather conditions and to provide community support in emergency situations.
On 27th February, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by representatives of the two organisations under which the groups agreed to co-operate together in order to provide an improved service to their users.
Above: Paul Cumbers of Sussex 4×4 Response signs the Memorandum of Understanding whilst RAYNET’s Dick Jeffries looks on.
Speaking at the signing of the agreement, Paul Cumbers, Group Liaison Officer for Sussex 4×4 Response said “There are occasions when our responders need reliable communications when working in difficult conditions and we are unable to rely on the mobile phone network. The facilities and expertise that RAYNET are able to supply, will enhance our service to the community”
Dick Jeffries, Group Controller for Eastbourne and Wealden RAYNET agreed saying “Our skills and those of Sussex 4×4 Response are complementary, the ability of Sussex 4×4 Response to get our operators and equipment to where it is needed in emergency situations will considerably enhance the service we can provide”.
Sussex RAYNET comprises Eastbourne and Wealden RAYNET Group, Hastings and Rother RAYNET Group and South Sussex RAYNET Group.
The two organisations have now set up a joint working party to agree detailed operating procedures and to organise a joint training exercise later in the year.