Raw Head, G/SP-016 - 227m ASL - SJ 508 548 - OS Explorer 257 - 1 SOTA point           

Fast moving developments! When Jimmy M3EYP, Liam and myself set off to Raw Head on Saturday morning, 11th April 2009, we didn't have a clue that it's very status as a Marilyn - and therefore a SOTA summit - was about to be fatally questioned! Still, there you go, and at least we got our final fling out of it without having to nervously watch an oncoming deadline!

   

This was a multi-event day out, with a call in another part of West Cheshire to follow the activation. We parked in the more usual spot at the end of Coppermines Lane, leaving a simple, pleasant and mostly level walk into the summit. The footpath was popular with couples and families on this warm and bright early April morning. After reaching the trig point, we adjourned into the adjacent field to allow room for the radials of the 20m antenna without tripping everyone up.

       

Jimmy worked through his 2m handheld, which I also borrowed for the S2S contacts with Jordan M3TMX and Amanda 2E0MND on The Cloud G/SP-015, and Richard G3CWI on Billinge Hill G/SP-017. He made only five QSOs as 2m proved to be rather quiet, but nonetheless rejected my invitations to have a go on 20m SSB.

       

On 20m CW, things weren't much more prolific. Seven QSOs were made to add to the two S2S on 2m FM, before it was time to pack up and walk back to the car, with a deadline pressing for the next activity.

Jimmy directed me to the tip of Chester that straddles the Welsh border, and the Deva Stadium. Yes, the next planned event for the day was Chester City versus Macclesfield Town, and the enjoyment of the day was extended as John Rooney and Gareth Evans secured us a 2-0 victory.

Thanks to all callers, and farewell to Raw Head, which I have activated in each of SOTA's eight years to date.