Concept News
The Pirate Files
Compiled By Jim Lowe from newspaper articles
Liverpool Echo, Thursday September 17th 1987
Radio Merseywaves File
Liverpool Echo 28th November 1985
Pirate radio men charged
Moreton - based pirate radio station Merseywaves has been raided by
government officials who have confiscated 1,300 Pounds worth of
equipment and hundreds of records. Nine men from the Department of
Trade and Industry pounced on Sunday afternoon. Two men were arrested
and will appear in court next month.
Merseywaves say the two events it is holding in New Brighton and
Birkenhead will still take place. The under 18's night out at the
Golden Guinea, New Brighton will go ahead, as will the over 18's
night at Atmosphere on December 10th.
(Liverpool Echo 28/11/85)
Radio pirate caught on the air.
A PIRATE radio station interfered with transmissions by Liverpool's
Radio City. And when the independent station made a complaint, an
investigation was launched by officers representing the radio
investigation team from the Department of Trade.
A total of 10 people were summoned before Wirral magistrates
yesterday in connection with the running of Radio Merseywave. In nine
cases adjournments were requested and agreed. In the lOth "Dave
Collins", admitted using a station for wireless telegraphy
without a licence.
Miss Christine Bradley, prosecuting. said there was considerable
concern over overlapping of frequencies because of pirate stations
and also concern over interference with emergency services Miss
Bradley said Merseywave transmitted over a 30 miles radius. She said
it was a powerful radio. It was very organised and not run for a
hobby. It had been in existence for about 10 years.
When officers went to the address of "Collins", music was
being played on 1242 KZ on the medium wave band. It ceased when they
knocked on the door. "Collins", who was present claimed he
was just a visitor and said he was "only recording" but
later he admitted he had been broadcasting. The transmitter was found
hidden inside a bed settee suite on which he was sitting. It was
seized along with other equipment and 118 single records and seven
cassettes. Mr Ken Spectre, defending, said "Collins" and
many of the others involved with the station were unemployed. They
did not make a penny out of running the station which provided a
service to the community and advertised charities.
Mr Spectre said the records seized were a lifetime collection. The
magistrates allowed the records and cassettes to be returned but
ordered that all the equipment seized be forfeited.
"Collins" was unconditionally discharged, for two years but
was ordered to pay costs totalling 231 Pounds.
(Liverpool Echo, Thursday September 17th 1987)
Wirral Globe Thursday 24th September 1987
Jobless Turned To Pirate Radio To Relieve Boredom
A group of people, mostly unemployed, broadcast on the pirate
Birkenhead station Radio Merseywaves to help relieve boredom from
living on the estate at Woodchurch, commented Mr. Kenneth Spectre,
defending, at Wirral Magistrates' court.
Department of Trade investigators made inquiries after publicity
about the station and a complaint from Radio City who said their own
transmissions were being interrupted. "Dave Collins", aged
24, of Woodchurch, faced the court. He admitted using a station for
wireless telegraphy when not a licence holder. Nine other people were
summoned on various matters but their cases were adjourned.
Miss Christine Bradley, prosecuting, claimed the station was well
organised and not run as a hobby. It had a thirty miles radius. There
was concern at overlapping of frequencies by pirate stations who did
not pay a fee and also concern at interference to emergency services.
"Collins" had been broadcasting when investigators went to
his flat. They confiscated all the equipment found and also I19
records and seven cassettes belonging to "Collins".
Mr Spectre said the station broadcast music and advertised charities.
"Collins" did not make a penny out of it. Broadcasts had
now ceased and there was no need to pillory the accused. The
Magistrates agreed all the equipment be forfeited but they said the
records and cassettes which were a lifetime collection by the
defendant would be returned. He was granted a conditional discharge
for two years but had to pay costs of 231 Pounds
Wirral Globe Thursday 24th September 1987
Wirral News 10th May 1989
'Keith The Cheif' Pirate DJ Fined.
A pirate radio disc jockey had his equipment confiscated by Wirral
magistrates. "Keith The Cheif" 27, of Moreton used the name
"Keith the Chief," was also fined 200Pounds by the
magistrates after he admitted using a station, Radio Merseywaves for
wireless telegraphy without a licence. He had to pay 150 Pounds
costs. Items confiscated included a twin tape deck, a stereo cassette
player and recorder and an amplifier.
"Keith" was questioned after members of the Radio
Investigation Service raided a flat in Birkenhead after letters of
complaint about interference to reception had been received.
Mr. David Moore, defending, said the defendant was a full-time
technician with a local company. His spare time and his spare cash
were used along with others to run Radio Merseywaves. The station had
its uses. It campaigned actively against drugs and for safe sex
following the AIDS scare. It had been involved in many worthwhile
charity events and had helped bring together the community.
The Government now had plans for Community Radio, but
"Keith" and his colleagues "had jumped the gun."
In any case they were only enthusiasts and amateurs and would not be
able to afford the vast fees likely to be requested.
"Keith" had a previous, similar conviction for running the
same illegal station.
Wirral News 10th May 1989
Liverpool Echo, Wednesday May 3rd 1989
Disk Jockey Unsaddled
Pirate disk jockey "Keith the Chief" has landed in
a spin.
"The Chief aged 27 of Moreton. pleaded guilty to using a
wireless station - Radio Merseywaves; - for wireless telegraphy
without a Iicence. He was fined 200 Pounds and also had to pay 150
Pounds costs
The magistrates confiscated equipment seized including a twin tape
deck, a stereo cassette player and recorder and an amplifier.
"Keith" had a previous similar conviction involving the
same station.
Liverpool Echo, Wednesday May 3rd 1989
Liverpool Daily Post, September 17th 1987
Pirate has his records returned
COMPLAINTS by Radio City led to a pirate of the airwaves appearing
before Wirral Magistrates. The independent station made a complaint
about Radio Merseywave interfering with transmissions. An
investigation followed by officers representing the radio
investigation team from the Department of Trade A total of 10 people
were summoned in connection with the running of Radio Merseywave. In
nine cases adjournments were requested and agreed. In the lOth case
"Dave Collins" (24); of Woodchurch, admitted using a
station for wireless telegraphy without a licence.
When officers went to the Woodchurch address of "Collins",
music was being played on the medium wave band. It ceased when they
knocked on the door. "Collins" who was present claimed he
was just a visitor and said he was only recording, but later he
admitted he had been broadcasting. The transmitter was found hidden
inside a bed settee suite on .which he was sitting. It was seized
along with other equipment and 119 single records and seven cassettes.
The magistrates allowed the records and cassettes to be returned, but
ordered that all the equipment seized be forfeited.
"Collins" was unconditionally discharged for 2 years but
was ordered to pay costs totalling 231 Pounds.
(Liverpool Daily Post, September 17th 1987)
Wirral News 23rd September 1987
Radio pirates scuppered after City tip-off call
RADIO Merseywaves, Birkenhead's pirate radio station, ran into
trouble because of a complaint by Radio City. Ten people were
summonsed at Wirral Magistrates Court following inquiries by the
Radio Investigation Service at the Department of Trade . and Industry.
Nine cases were adjourned but, the tenth, "Dave Collins"aged
24, of Woodchurch, admitted using a station for wireless telegraphy
without a licence. ' Miss Chrlstine Bradley, prosecuting,said the
Radio City complaint followed newspaper publicity given to the pirate
set-up. City also maintained that their own transmissions were being
interrupted. The department was very concerned at overlapping of
frequencies caused by pirate statlons and interference to emergency services.
Miss Bradley said ' Radio Merseywaves transmitted over a 30-mile
radius. It was a powerful radio, well organised, and not run for a hobby.
The investigators went to a block of flats at Woodchurch and
discovered music being transmitted on 1242 KHz on the Medium
Waveband. When they knocked on the door the transmission ceased.
"Collins" opened the door. He used the DJ name of Dave
Collins. Miss Bradley said there was a studio in the flat and various
items of equipment. Humphreys said it did not belong to him. He was a
visitor to the flat and was only recording. Later he admitted:
'"Okay, I was broadcasting"
The transmitter was discovered inside a bed settee suite on which
"Collins" had been sitting. Mr Ken Spectre, defending, said
"Collins" and other involved did not make a penny out of
their activities. He was unemployed like many others. The
organisation broadcast music and advertised charities. It was a
worthwhile cause and a way to relieve boredom when when living on the
estate. The broadcasts had now ceased and there was no need to
pillory the accused.
The magistrates agreed to confiscate all the equipment but returned
to "Collins" the records and cassettes which Mr Spectre
said were a lifetime collection and important to him.
"Collins" was conditionally discharged for two years but
had to pay 231 Pounds costs.
Wirral News 23rd September 1987
WIRRAL GLOBE THURSDAY l8th December 1986
In defence of `Merseywaves'
I would like to take this opportunity to dispel any malicious rumours
which may have been circulating about Radio Merseywaves.
Certain people are under the impression that all pirate or
"free" radio stations around the country are a menace to
society in that they accused of interfering with the emergency
service on Radio wavebands. As I can now point out this is not true
in certain cases. Radio Merseywaves broadcast on the frequency of 244
medium wave or.l233 kHz .
May I point out that there are no emergency services which broadcast
on medium wave. Due to technical reasons They operate on the VHF
waveband, therefore at the moment, Radio Maseywaves are in no way
causing a hazard to emergency services.. In fact in my opinion there
are other services in the community which interfere with radios more
than free radio stations, one of which is taxis.
I would also like to point out that much hard work and many hours go
into producing the shows which Radio Merseywaves broadcasts each
Friday, Saturday,Sunday and Monday . Nearly all the DJ's on the
station are well established Jocks working in venues around the
Merseyside area and are not irresponsible as people might think
Merseywaves DJ's are willing to promote charity events taking place
in the Merseyside area and have also raised money on numerous
occasions. Radio Merseywaves is not funded in any way and all
expenses are paid for by the disc jockeys out of their own pockets.
If anyone has any opinions or wishes to tell me what they think of
Radio Merseywaves and what we can do to improve the service, I will
be very pleased to hear from them c/o the mailing address
Dave Benitez (Merseywaves DJ)
Wirral Globe Thursday 18th December 1986
(Liverpool Echo, Wednesday May 30th 1987)
End of the line for Radio Julie
A Ford Estate flat, which which was being used as the base for a
pirate radio station, was raided by the Department of Trade and
Industry officials, Wirral Magistrates were told. Later the disk
jockey using the name Andy Davies, started broadcasting again from a
new address, using the name Julie FM.
A second raid followed and further equipment confiscated.
Seized
"Andy Davies, 22. of Woodchurch, admitted two offences of using
apparatus for wireless telegraphy without a licence, and one offence
of of installing apparatus for wireless telegraphy.
Mr. Stephen McPeake, defending, said that "Davies" broke
the law through his enthusiasm. There was no gain whatsoever for him.
Mr. McPeake said he could not object to an application for the
equipment to be forfeited. This would cost "Davies" about
500 Pounds.
The court imposed fines totalling 150 Pounds plus 50 Pounds costs and
said the penalties would have been much higher but for the fact that
"Davies" was drawing benefit. The magistrates also made the
forfeiture order.
(Liverpool Echo, 20/05/87)
(Wirral News, 29th April 1987)
Raid on pirate Radio Julie
Department of Trade and industry officers investigated after radio
transmissions were picked up coming from a flat at Ford Towers,
Birkenhead. A search warrant was obtained and radio equipment was
found in one room and transmitting material in another room, Mr Sean
Sexton told Wirral magistrates. "Andy Davies", who was
present, admitted operating under the name of Andy Davies and the
equipment was seized.
Six months later, said MR. Sexton, more transmissions were discovered
coming from a flat at Woodchurch, with the call sign Julie FM used.
Again , equipment was seized. "Davies" admitted operating
the equipment, which he said had been installed in December.
"Davies, 22, of Woodchurch, admitted two offences of using
apparatus for wireless telegraphy without a licence. and one of
installing apparatus for wireless telegraphy without a licence. The
magistrates said they were concerned at the continuation of
broadcasts by "Davies" after he was first seen and
interviewed in August. They asked for a social enquiry report and
adjourned sentence until May 19th.
Mr. Sexton asked that the some of the equipment seized be forfeited.
He also claimed 200 Pounds costs. Mr Stephen McPeake, defending, said
"Davies was a self-taught electronics enthusiast. He broke the
law, but not for his own gain. He was unemployed and it was a way of
occupying his time. Mr. McPeake said there was no evidence of
interference being caused by the station which had benefited local
charities by advertising events which were taking place.
(Wirral News, 29th April 1987)
Liverpool Echo Friday April 24 1987
Pirate DJ walks the plank
ELECTRONICS wizard "Andy Davies" took to the airwaves as a
pirate disc jockey The self-taught radio expert sent out illegal I
broadcasts in Wirral to 'fill in life on the dole. But he was caught
by the Department of Trade and Industry"Davies", aged 22 of
Woodchurch called his station Radio Julie, and appeared as DJ Andy Davies.
Wirral magistrates heard how officials picked up his signal and
raided a flat at Ford Towers Birkenhead. He was interviewed, but
continued to broadcast until another raid six months later, in
Woodchurch. He admitted using wireless apparatus without a licence.
Sentence was delayed for four weeks for a s social report.
(Liverpool Echo Friday April 24th 1987)
The Julie FM File
Wednesday April 22nd 1987
Pirate DJ Walks the plank.
ELECTRONICS wizard "Andy Davies" took to the airwaves as a
pirate disc jockey The self-taught radio expert sent out illegal
broadcasts in Wirral to fill in life on the dole. But he was caught
by the Department of Trade and Industry.
"Davies", 22, of Woodchurch, called his station Radio
Julie, and appeared as DJ Andy Davis. Wirral magistrates heard how
officials picked up his signal and raided a flat at Ford Towers. Birkenhead.
He was interviewed, but continued to broadcast until another raid,
six months later, in Woodchurch. He admitted using wireless apparatus
without a licence. Sentence was delayed four weeks for a social
report. .
Wednesday April 22nd 1987
KDA FM
Liverpool Echo Friday April 24th 1987
Radio Pirate Sunk By Mozart
PIRATE disc jockey "Keith" was trapped because his
neighbours liked classical music. Beethoven and Mozart fans in
Birkenhead, picked up interference when they tuned in to Radio Three.
They complained. and sleuths from the Department of Trade moved in.
The officials raided his house and found him transmitting an illegal
station called Concept.
Wirral magistrates were told that he claimed he had only been doing
it for a few weeks. "Keith" aged 27, admitted three
offences on different dates of using wireless apparatus without a
licence. He also admitted operating operating a station without a
licence. The court ordered his equipment to be forfeited. George
Sale, defending, said it would mean an estimated loss to the
defendant of 350 Pounds.
Mr. Sale said "Keith" had now realised how wrong he had
been operating the station and was sorry for the disturbance. He did
not make any money. It was purely for his own pleasure. Christine
Bradley, for the prosecution, said he had told officers it was a hobby.
(Liverpool Echo Friday April 24th 1987)
Merseyside Free Radio
Liverpool Echo, Monday October 12th 1987
Cops In Hunt For Radio Pirate
HI-TECH Mersey cops are hunting pirate radio operators whose
broadcasts have jammed British Gas emergency frequencies. the station
called Merseyside Free Radio brought chaos over the weekend. It was
using the FM waveband to play pop music on a DIY transmitter.
Gas engineers had to use public telephones to keep in touch with
control as pirates jammed the emergency network. Police were alerted
and began tracking the pirates who's transmitter is believed to be
around Leasowe in Wirral.
Today, a spokesman for British Gas described the dangers of jamming
emergency frequencies. He said: "It means we cannot communicate
with our with our engineers out on the road and the result could be
very serious."This is the first time we have had problems like
this."The FM waveband is so crammed that any pirate broadcasting
on it is bound to interfere with someone. A spokesman for Merseyside
Police said they were still investigating.
Liverpool Echo, Monday October 12th 1987
The Wirral News 14th October 1987
Ahoy There! Pirates say they're sorry.
A pirate, radio station. broadcasting from the Wirral has apologised
through the Wirral News after music interfered with emergency
channels used by British Gas services and ambulances. A spokesman for
'Merseyside Free Radio, giving his name only as 'Derek' said it was
not the station's intention to cause trouble.: " We have heard
through the press and radio that the police are investigating us.
We have apologised to British Gas for the inconvenience caused and
have decided to shut down temporarily until we can find an
alternative frequency, which will not interfere with anything
important. "No one at Merseyside Free Radio makes any money, and
we aim to raise money for charity. Unfortunately, our signal was
stronger than we anticipated, and was picked up as far afield as
Southport and Wigan" The station started broadcasting on 106FM
on Sunday, giving a mailing address in Leasowe.
( Wirral News 14th October 1987)
Wirral Globe Thursday 15th October 1987
British Gas Slam Radio Pirates
A pirate radio station based at a Wirral location threw British Gas
emergency services into chaos at the weekend. The mystery station is
illegal. It piggy- backed the same airwave used by British Gas
engineers and an intrusion of chat and pop music made it almost
impossible for them to receive orders from central office.
Engineers rely on their radio to enable them to make a quick response
to emergency gas leaks and other repairs. Now Crime Squad detectives
are investigating the incident and hope to swoop on the pirates ,
believed to be operating from Leasowe.
A spokesman for British Gas North West told the Wirral Globe:
"Our services were interrupted from early Sunday through to
midnight on Sunday. It is the first time we have had trouble like
this and the matter was referred to the police straight away. All we
want to do is to maintain the best possible service for for our
customers." But the spokesman declined to comment when asked of
British Gas feelings about pirate radio. The airwave intrusion meant
engineers had to shout over the radio stations programme. In the end,
they had to use "alterative methods" of communication.
Wirral Globe Thursday 15th October 1987
Liverpool Pirate Radio
Liverpool Echo,Thursday October 29th 1987
Bedroom Radio Station Busted
Liverpool Pirate Radio had a captive audience within weeks of hitting
the airwaves - many of its listeners were inmates at Walton Jail. But
Pirate "Phill Davies" and his mates were scuppered when
Government investigators started tuning in as well.
They raided the station which had been set up in a back bedroom of
his home in Norris Green. And at Liverpool magistrates court, the
40-year-old jobless father of four pleaded guilty to setting up the
illegal station and using it from April this year. But while he
admitted he knew it was against the law, "Davies" said he
did not think he was doing any harm.
His solicitor Mr Tony Ostrin said: "He made sure he did not
interfere with any other broadcasts especially emergency
transmissions. "He was keen to run the station professionally
and believed he did so with the help of local unemployed lads who
enjoyed making the best of their free time."
He said that in the three weeks Live Pirate Radio broadcast on 215
metres, the stations selection of golden oldies and rock music built
up a substantial following . And Mr Ostrin submitted a selection of
letters from happy listeners to the court. "Many of them came
from Walton Jail," he said. People from all sections of the
community enjoyed this music-only station."
"Davies" was fined 100 Pounds and ordered to pay 50 pounds costs.
Liverpool Echo,Thursday October 29th 1987
North Coast Radio
Liverpool Echo, Thursday May 2nd 1991
Pirate Richie C is in the dock.
OFFICERS from the Radio Investigation Service raided a Merseyside
flat where a radio station was operating illegally. The raid came
after they had monitored the illegal transmission, a court was told.
"Richie 'C'", 21, of Birkenhead, admitted using apparatus
for wireless telegraphy when not licensed, Christine Bradley,
prosecuting, said he told the officers he had set up the station,
North Coast Radio, in March last year. He and a few friends ran it
and he used the pseudonym Ritchie C. The station was transmitting on
the medium wave and the FM band.
The officers who raided the flat in . Birkenhead, confiscated
equipment which was being used and the transmissions ceased, Debra
Gould defending said the defendant did not gain any profit out of the
station which gave enjoyment to listeners and helped raise cash for
local organisations.
The magistrates decided that all the equipment seized, which included
a transmitter and record and cassette decks, be forfeited.
"Richie 'C'" was conditionally discharged for 2 months on
payment of 50 Pounds costs.
Liverpool Echo, Thursday May 2nd 1991
Liverpool Daily Post, Thursday May 2nd 1991
Pirate DJ 'takes rap'
OFFICERS from the Radio Investigation Service raided a flat at
Birkenhead after monitoring illegal transmissions, Wirral magistrates
heard yesterday. ."Richie 'C'", commented:"1'll take
all the rap, said Christine Bradley, prosecuting."
"Richie", 21 of Birkenhead admitted using apparatus for
wireless telegraphy when not licensed. Miss Bradley said. the
defendant told the officers he had set up the station North Coast
Radio in March last year. He and a few friends ran it and he used the
pseudonym "Ritchie 'C'. He said the tenant of the flat had given
permission for it to be used.
The station was transmitting on the medium wave and the FM band. The
officers confiscated equipment which ' was being used and the
transmissions ceased Debra Gould defending, said he did not gain any
profit out of the station which gave enjoyment to listeners and
helped raise cash for local organisations. The station did not
encroach on emergency services or legitimate stations.
"Richie" was a. skilled operator who had an enormous
interest in radio. He claimed he did not own the equipment which was
being used The magistrates ordered that all the equipment seized.
which included a transmitter and record cassette decks, be forfeited.
"Richie C" was conditionally discharged for 12 months and
ordered to pay 50 Pounds costs.
Liverpool Daily Post, Thursday May 2nd 1991
Toxteth Community Radio/Choice FM
Liverpool Echo, Monday February 18th 1991
Raids Silence Radio Pirates
TOXTETH'S two pirate community radio stations have been shut down
after raids by the Department of Trade and Industry But defiant
organisers of the stations declared: "We will be back." DTI
officers carried out swoops at two studios in Toxteth-Choice FM and
Toxteth Community Radio TCR. They seized studio and transmitting
equipment and are interviewing three.
A spokesman for TCR, which claim to attract 250 000 listeners In the
Merseyside region and beyond said today: "We are very sad. This
was a very popular service for the community. TCR gave the black
community a voice There are all forms of black music on radio apart
from soul and dance. which people rarely hear on other stations."
Liverpool Echo, Monday February 18th 1991
Liverpool Daily Post Monday 23rd March 1983
Radio Veronica
SHOW GOES ON FOR AIRWAVE PIRATES
By Alan Qualtrough
A Wirral pirate radio station went back on the air yesterday, only
hours after a police raid. Home office officials and police
confiscated equipment worth more than 1000 Pounds at the weekend when
the pirate station Radio Veronica was traced to a flat in a tower
block on Birkenhead's Ford Estate.
But yesterday Woodchurch man "Steven Bishop" and friend
"Mike Campbell" vowed to keep broadcasting. "I'll
continue until I go to jail if necessary. Even that will not stop
me",said "Steven" aged 20, a play leader. And with
help from friends "Nick Catford" (18) and "Andy
Davies", Merseyside Free Radio hit the airwaves with equipment
set up in cardboard boxes and transmitted via aerials hidden in trees.
The station switches location each broadcast to avoid detection by
the authorities and claims reception reaches Wigan, the Isle Of Mann
and North Wales. "Today's broadcast is for the cause of free
radio ", said "Andy". "We're campaigning for a
licence but it will not be granted. Only the BBC and IBA get one.
It's unfair" The group claim the station is non-profit making
and has no advertising. "There is so much space on the Medium
Wave We do nobody any harm", added "Andy"
(Liverpool Daily Post 23/05/91)
Storeton Community Radio
Birkenhead News 24th February 1984.
Storeton Community Radio
Lawbreakers who 'serve community'
You have to be careful when you mention the word "Pirate"
to DJ's at Storeton Community Radio. Any reminders that they are
breaking the law brings a sharp reply, writes Tony Bethel. "We
would rather not call ourselves pirate radio " said "Martin
'C'", aged 19 who set up the unauthorised station two years ago.
"We are free radio. We provide a service to the public without
charging them". It is doubtful whether that explanation would
impress the Home Office. Equipment being used for the radio,
including record decks, a new microphone and a transmitter was
confiscated in a raid. "Martin 'C'", as the person
responsible for running the station faces a court hearing on a charge
of transmitting without a licence.
The maximum penalty is a œ1000 fine, or six months in prison.
SCR was off the air for a couple of weeks following the raid. It is
now transmitting from again from a flat in the centre of Birkenhead.
The new 'studio' has double locks fitted to all doors and has the
windows boarded up. Although it is impossible to say exactly how many
listeners the station has, it's organisers reckon the figure runs
into several thousands. When the station was going strong last year,
they were receiving anything upto 150 letters a week from the public.
"We tell the listeners that their letters are our wages."
said "Paul Woods",aged 25. One of its DJ's, 21 year old
"Keith The Chief" said a major function of the station as
promoting local bands and advertising charity events. Illegally
operating on 1026 Khz. 292 Metres Medium Wave, the station says it
caters for all all tastes and ages. Music of the 1950's and 1960's is
provided by "Brian 'C'", and "John Sniff" focuses
on local bands. Pablo Brad features Reggae, and "Uncle
Ern"concentrates on chart hits.
Other DJ's include "Mad Mike", "Dave Collins" and
"Sandy Babe" and "Little Di". Many of the DJ's
are on the dole and they say many of their listeners are unemployed.
One of the main problems is finance. "Martin 'C'" reckons
he puts most of his weekly wages as an audio engineer into the
station and "Keith The Chief" spends about œ30 a week
on it.
All in all, the total expenditure each week amounts to about
œ100. This mainly goes on buying buying equipment and records.
"We have turned down requests to do advertising", said
"Martin 'C'". "We feel that if we start to do
advertising, we may get caught transmitting more easily. Also, we
don't want to become another commercial station".
(Birkenhead News 24/02/84)
"Martin 'C'", the station's owner and engineer was
subsequently taken to court and fined œ145 plus costs. (Tim Jackson)
Raids on Central and Storeton Community Radio
Liverpool Echo Tuesday November 13th 1984
Pirates are sunk
Two illegal radio stations closed
By Tim Rogers
Government trading officers have pulled the plug on two Merseyside
pirate radio stations. A round of lightening raids has taken Central
Radio and Storeton Community Radio off the airwaves - and more
"hits could follow soon. Both stations were well established and
led a new mini boom in illegal broadcasting, it was claimed last
night. Central, based in Bootle had been beaming out rock and pop
music, featuring local groups, for almost two years.
Storeton Community, based in Birkenhead, also featured pop
broadcasting 24 hours a day. The well-timed raids by officials from
the department of Trade and Industry, backed up by the police, caught
both stations in the middle of broadcasting.
Illegal home-made transmitters and radio equipment were taken away -
but SCR was broadcasting again within 24 hours. One Wirral pirate,
who operates Radio Atlantis, claimed the raids were well organised
but would not frighten off the new boom in illegal broadcasters.
"There are five stations operating in the Birkenhead area
alone", he said. "It seems to be most popular , although
they are spring up all over the area.
We can't see why they should be so determined. to have a go at us
when we are so popular. He added, " For many of us this is an
enjoyable hobby, and we can't see harm in it at all. We don't
interfere with anybody else." A spokesman for the Department of
Trade and Industry confirmed that officers had been operating in the
area, following a raid on a large pirate radio station in Manchester.
(Liverpool Echo 13/11/84).
Central Radio International
Daily Post May 29th 1986
(Court case arising from DTI raid on Friday 31st January 1985)
Radio pirates silenced by the court
A pirate radio station, set up to brighten the lives of the local
jobless, yesterday had its equipment confiscated by Liverpool
magistrates court. Two of its disk jockeys pleaded guilty to using
the equipment without a licence from a high rise flat in Everton
"Jeff Thompson" (36) at who's home the apparatus was
discovered, also pleaded guilty to installing the equipment
illegally. He was fined a total of 100 Pounds and ordered to pay 50
Pounds costs. "Jim Brown" (36) of Bootle, was fined 50
Pounds plus 50 Pounds costs.
Central Radio International was discovered broadcasting on the medium
wave by Department of Trade and Industry officials, explained Miss
Judith Miller, prosecuting. When they went to "Thompson's"
home they found the still warm transmitter and other equipment and he
admitted using it for the past four months. "Brown"
admitted broadcasting an afternoon show under the name of Jim Brown.
Mr. Ian Harris defending "Brown" explained that the men,
who are both unemployed, had wanted to brighten up the lives of local
unemployed people and give them a choice in local radio listening.
(Liverpool Daily Post 29/05/86)
Liverpool Daily Post , January 21st 1986
Court clampdown on radio pirates.
Three young men who were involved in the running of an illegal radio
station were fined a total of 250 Pounds by Wirral magistrates
yesterday. The court heard that Radio Merseywaves, which had
interfered with the medium wave for emergency services, and domestic
reception, was still broadcasting at the weekend, as the main
transmitter used by the station had not been found.
DJ Mark Newman (18), and another youth aged 17, of Moreton, pleaded
guilty to using broadcasting apparatus without a licence, and also
using a station for wireless telegraphy without a licence. They were
each fined 100 Pounds. Another man aged 21 also of Moreton, admitted
using a station without a licence. He was fined 50 Pounds. All had to
pay 50 Pounds costs.
The magistrates ordered that a large amount of equipment seized
during raids on two premises at Moreton be forfeited, but said that
records would be returned.
(Liverpool Daily Post 21/01/86)
Wirral News 23rd January 1986
Pirate radio men fined
Investigations were carried out in the Moreton area after radio
interference on the Medium Wave band to emergency services and
domestic radio services was reported, and eventually two premises
were raided, Wirral magistrates were told by Mr. Laurence Dunn,
prosecuting. Three young men involved in the running of a pirate
radio station, Radio Merseywaves, "for a hobby", faced the court.
DJ "Mark Newman aged 18 , and another youth aged 17 both of
Moreton, admitted using broadcasting apparatus without a licence and
also using a station for wireless telegraphy without a licence.
Another defendant aged 21, also admitted using a station without a
licence. "Newman" and the 17 year old were each fined 100
Pounds and the 21 year old 50 Pounds. They each had to pay 50 Pounds costs.
The court was told a large amount of equipment was stolen after the
raids in November and December at two tower blocks in Moreton. The
magistrates ordered it to be forfeited with the exception of
paperwork, a watch, a phone set and records.
Items confiscated included transmitters, arials, adaptors, receivers
and cassette players. Mr Dunn told the court the main transmitter
used by the station had still not been located and he alleged the
station was still on the air last weekend. MR. Stephen McPeake,
defending, said it was not a commercial station and no adverts were
accepted. He said the three accused were pop enthusiasts occupying
their time. Unfortunately, their enthusiasm went beyond the law. He
said they did not think they were doing any harm and chose a
wavelength not used by others in the locality. They denied further
involvement in broadcasting.
( Wirral News 23/01/86)
Liverpool Echo 21st January 1986.
Raid on radio pirates lowers the flag
Three men involved in the running of a pirate radio station Radio
Merseywaves for a hobby appeared before Wirral magistrates yesterday.
Mr. Laurence Dunn prosecuting, for the Department of Trade and
Industry, said investigations were carried out because of radio
interference on the medium wave to emergency services and domestic reception.
Two raids were carried out a two tower blocks in Moreton and
equipment including transmitters, receivers aerials, adapters and
records were seized. Mr. Dunn however, said the main transmitter had
not been found and he alleged the station was still on the air last weekend.
DJ "Mark Newman (18) and another youth aged 17, of Moreton,
admitted using broadcasting apparatus without a licence and using a
station for wireless telegraphy without a licence. They were each
fined 100 Pounds with 50 Pounds costs. Another man , aged 21 also of
Moreton, admitted one offence of using a station without a licence.
He was fined 50 Pounds with 50 Pounds costs. Mr. Stephen McPeake,
defending, said it was not a commercial station.
The three were a band of pop enthusiasts occupying their time .
Unfortunately their enthusiasm went beyond the law. They did not
think they were doing any harm. They denied further involvement in
broadcasting after they had been questioned.
(Liverpool Echo 21/01/86)
Liverpool Echo Tuesday April 15th 1986
Joy for pirate DJ
Play it again, judges rule.
A Merseyside DJ who had his prized record collection confiscated for
illegal broadcasting will soon be listening to his favourite music
again, thanks to a high court ruling. "Jeff Stone", lost
his records and 3,000 Pounds worth of equipment for broadcasting from
his home in Anfield without a licence.
High Court judges have ruled this order in respect of the records and
tapes was unlawful because courts can only take apparatus installed
installed or used for illegal broadcasting, a definition not wide
enough to cover records and tapes.
Jeff is overjoyed: "I heard about it from a friend. I was
waiting for my solicitor to tell me about the hearing. I have not had
any music to listen to, and those were all rare because they are
local bands and tapes I've mixed myself." The High Court
decision will mean that pirate DJ's will be able to keep their
records and tapes in the future. Meanwhile, jobless Jeffrey, who
first became involved in pirate radio after hearing Central Radio in
hospital is looking for a legal job in broadcasting.
(Liverpool Echo 15/04/86)
Liverpool Echo Wednesday November 27th 1991.
Radio pirates set to scupper charity effort
Pirate broadcasters could keep a charity radio station off the air -
and take food from the mouths of starving children in the Third World
Film and television star Margi Clarke is due to launch Prescot's
Radio Cracker tomorrow, which aims to raise thousands of pounds from
listeners in return for playing their favourite records. But
engineers have discovered that a pirate station called Choice FM,
possibly based in Toxteth, is jamming its 101FM frequency with back
to back music.
Increase.
"It's too late to get another wavelength and there are only two
ways of saving the charity station", said Radio Cracker press
officer Steven Goddard. "We are asking the authorities to
increase the power of our transmitter but, in the meantime, we are
hoping the pirates will realise and that they could be taking food
from the mouths of starving children and come off the air".
Radio Cracker - which is a national charity effort involving dozens
of different stations - aims to be on the air from its studio in
Prescot Shopping Centre 24 hours a day until Christmas Eve. The
Minister for Overseas Development, Mrs. Lynda Calker, launched the
national Radio Cracker campaign yesterday. Mr Goddard added: "The
pirates won't realise they are on our frequency but I hope this
appeal will persuade them to stop transmitting."
Liverpool Echo Wednesday November27th 1991
CHOICE FM had left the air by 1920 on 27/11/91, but the article was
repeated on Granada TV on the Thursday night. They returned to the
air on Friday, but had moved to 101.9Mhz. They had left the air again
by Sunday Morning, haven't been heard since. (Tim Jackson)
Liverpool Echo Friday November 29th 1991
New pirates sail the charity airwaves.
Pirates have stopped broadcasting on a charity station's wavelength.
But they have been replaced by another illegal outfit. Staff at Radio
Cracker, due on at noon tomorrow (30/11/91), were celebrating a call
from Choice FM, in Toxteth.
The caller promised that the station would keep the airwaves clear to
help Radio Cracker raise thousands of pounds for starving children in
the Third World. But the charity station's engineers discovered later
that their 101FM frequency was being blocked by other pirates playing
ethnic music.
"We have no idea where they are broadcasting from ", said
Radio Cracker press officer Steve Goddard. Film star Margi Clarke
officially launched radio Cracker yesterday.
(Liverpool Echo Friday 29/11/91)
Liverpool Echo Thursday March 5th 1992
HATE MAIL FOR RADIO PIRATE
Court told Toxteth man became a National Front target.
A man broadcasting under the banner of Toxteth Community Radio
intended to draw together the various communities in the area, a
court heard. But during the period he was broadcasting, a National
Front leaflet proclaiming "Keep the airwaves white" was
pushed through his letterbox, Liverpool magistrates heard. The
leaflet purported to be from "Waterloo National Front".
Solicitor Michael Hogan showed the leaflet to magistrates while
offering mitigation in the case of the 46 year old pirate radio
operator from Toxteth.
The unemployed man admitted two charges of radio piracy and the case
was adjourned for social inquiry reports. Julian Taylor, prosecuting
on behalf of the DTI, said that following a complaint from the Civil
Aviation Authority, DTI officials linked two broadcasts together on
January 15th last year. One was made from a house in Toxteth and the
other from other premises in the same area. On one occasion they
found the defendant operating studio equipment and he told him he did
a show on two mornings a week for Toxteth Community Radio.
Mr. Taylor applied for the forfeiture of the broadcasting equipment
and prosecution costs of œ648. Mr Hogan said his client had
considerable energy which tried to use to bring together the Toxteth
community. Mr. Hogan said, "The station was set up with the best
of intentions. While his case was going on, he received a
particularly obnoxious letter from the National Front." Mr.
Hogan added the defendant had not intentionally used aircraft frequencies.
(Liverpool Echo 5/03/92)
Liverpool Daily Post Thursday July 15th 1993
Pirate DJ still defiant as court fines him 200 Pounds
''Radio station will broadcast again"
RADAR Roy, the pirate of the radio waves, last night pledged the
illegal station he founded would broadcast once again. The disk
jockey was speaking hours after appearing in court following a raid
by Department of Trade and Industry investigators. Roy was caught as
he transmitted illegal broadcasts for his North Coast Radio station
from a high rise flat in Birkenhead.
Inquiries had been launched after complaints of interference to
domestic Television and radio in the area, said Richard Chancy,
prosecuting at Wirral Magistrates Court. Yesterday, the 28 year old,
of Central Birkenhead was conditionally discharged for two years
after admitting participating in unauthorised broadcasts, and using
apparatus for wireless telegraphy without a licence. Wirral
Magistrates also ordered the confiscation of his equipment but
returned his collection of thousands of records. He will also have to
pay court costs of 200 Pounds.
Last night , Roy, the brains behind the station - one of the most
influential pirate outfits in the North West, remained unrepentant.
And he vowed that North Coast Radio , which attracted a loyal
following of the young and old on the Wirral, would be resurrected.
Roy, who has been raided several times during his 12 years in pirate
radio, said: "It is a cat-and-mouse game, but the pirate
stations will survive. We are not criminals. We were providing a
useful service for our community. In addition to music, we offered
help and advice, ran helplines, organised anti-smoking campaigns and
raised thousands of pounds for charity. "The disk jockeys never
maid a penny out of it. It was a non profit-making organisation paid
for out of our own pockets.
It was a real shoestring operation. Whenever we ran competitions we
would give out a public telephone number and then stand out in the
street waiting to answer it. Our listeners ranged in age from
children to ladies in their 60's and 70's who would tune in to the
country and western programme.
There is no other radio station for the people of Wirral. We were
just giving them what they wanted, We even did surveys which showed
how popular the station was. We were caught because one man in a
block of flats was complaining of interference to his TV set, but the
thing is, now we are gone, he is still complaining of interference,"
(Liverpool Echo July 15th 1993)
Liverpool Echo 14 January 1993
Fans ran illegal Radio Station
Two radio fanatics ran an illegal 24 hour station, Liverpool
magistrates heard. "John Dwyer" and "Tony Scott"
of the Wirral admitted participating in the broadcasting of Toxteth
based Kiss FM.
The Department of Trade and Industry's Radio Investigation Service
started to observe KIss FM after complaints from local radio stations
and listeners who said they were suffering from interference. They
traced the radio signals to a flat in Toxteth.
"They raided the premises and found a radio station was working,
but nobody was on the premises.", said Richard Chancy,
prosecuting on behalf of the DTI. When the investigators turned off
the tape decks and equipment, Kiss FM ceased broadcasting. The homes
of the two men were raided and at a later date .
"Dwyer" admitted three breeches of the 1949 Wireless and
Telegraphy act between February 1991, and February 1992. These
related to participating in in unauthorised broadcasting and
arranging a Post Office box and answering machine for the station.
"Scott" admitted two charges of under the act. Both were
conditionally discharged for two years and ordered to pay 250 Pounds costs.
(Liverpool Echo 14th January 1993)
Liverpool Echo 14th January 1993
Radio ham put stations in a spin
By Echo reporter
An unemployed Liverpool man passed the time by setting up his own
radio station. "Dave Ross", aged 24, of Walton played and
introduced records on four Sunday afternoons on his station which he
called Mersey FM. But the licensed radio stations complained and a
Department of Trade and Industry investigation team traced the signal
to his home. He admitted three offences in connection with unlicensed
broadcasting last February. "Ross", an amateur radio
enthusiast, told Liverpool magistrates that he used second hand
transmitting equipment worth 100 Pounds.
Brian Woodhams, defending said: "He had no work and time was
heavy on his hands. He devised the idea of constructing his own
amateur radio station. "But to put it into context, the output
of his station was 30 watts. The output of Radio City for example is
8.200 watts.
"Ross" was given a conditional discharge for two years and
ordered to pay œ250 prosecution costs. An order was made for the
confiscation of the equipment.
(Liverpool Echo 14 January 1993)
Liverpool Daily Post Saturday March 27th 1993
Wirral Today
Two charged with running pirate radio
Two men faced Wirral magistrates yesterday charged in connection with
the alleged running of an illegal radio station. "Bert
Williams" aged 43 of Wirral admitted establishing an unlicensed
radio station. Another man aged 20 of Moreton, Wirral denied both
allegations and also a further charge of allowing premises in
Seacombe to be used for unlawful broadcasting. Both men where bailed
until April 28.
(Liverpool Daily Post Saturday March 27 1993)
Liverpool daily Post Thursday April 29th 1993
Pirate radio broadcasters are put off the air
Investigations into a Wirral pirate radio station resulted in two
unemployed men facing Wirral magistrates yesterday. "Bert
Williams" 43, of Wirral admitted two charges of establishing and
also using a radio station except under and in accordance with a
licence. Another man aged 20 of Moreton admitted permitting the use
of premises in Seacombe for unlawful broadcasting. He also admitted
using CB apparatus for wireless telegraphy.
Both men were conditionally discharged for 18 Months but, all
equipment seized at the Seacombe address was confiscated.
"Williams" had to pay 100 Pounds costs and the other man 50
Pounds costs.
Richard Clancy, prosecuting, said an investigation was carried out
following complaints over a station calling itself 'Merseywaves'.
They traced the station to a top flat in Seacombe. "Wiliams"
was later traced to his home where 40 items of correspondence
addressed to the DJ name 'Bert Williams' which he used were found.
David Moore, for "Williams" said he had an interest and
skill in electronics and being unemployed used it to operate the
station. He gained nothing and he was not the only person involved.
He said Merseywaves had raised money for charities including local
hospitals in the past. A solicitors letter read out on behalf of the
other defendant said he had asked for the the equipment to be removed
from the flat when he became aware it was was being used for illegal broadcasting.
(Thursday April 29th 1993)
Liverpool Echo Thursday April 29th 1993
AIRWAVE PIRATES TRACED TO FLAT
Jobless men's broadcast equipment confiscated
Investigations into a pirate radio station in Wirral led to two
unemployed men facing Wirral magistrates. "Bert Williams 43 of
Wallasey admitted two charges of establishing and also using a radio
station for for wireless telegraphy except under and in accordance
with a licence. Another man of Moreton admitted permitting the use of
premises in Seacombe for unlawful broadcasting. He also admitted
unlawfully using CB apparatus for wireless telegraphy.
Costs
Both men were conditionally discharged for 18 months but all
equipment seized at the Seacombe address including a transmitter,
records, tapes, a graphic equaliser and microphone were confiscated.
"Williams" was ordered to pay œ100 costs and the other
defendant 50 Pounds costs.
Richard Clancy, prosecuting for the Department of Trade and Industry,
told how an investigation was carried out following complaints over a
station calling itself Merseywaves and broadcasting on 99.9 Mhz. They
traced the station to the top floor flat in Seacombe. The other man
admitted he was the occupier and said the station had been installed
four to five weeks previously by a man called 'Bert'. "Williams
was later traced to his home where 40 items of correspondence,
addressed to the DJ name 'Bert Williams', which he used were found
along with a diagram of how to set up a station.
David Moire, for "Williams" said he had an interest and
skill in electronics and, being unemployed, used it to operate the
station. He gained nothing he was not the only person involved.
He said Merseywaves had raised money for charities, including local
hospitals. A solicitors letter read out on behalf of the other
defendant said he had asked for the equipment to be removed from the
flat when he became aware that it was being used for illegal
broadcasting. He played only a minor part . He did not realise he had
to be licensed to operate a CB.
Liverpool Echo. Thursday April 29th 1993
Liverpool Daily Post Thursday September 8th 1994
Persistent pirates of the airwaves face the music.
A pirate radio station which claimed to be the biggest on Merseyside
was put off the air when equipment was seized in a raid by the
Department of Trade and Industry, Wirral magistrates heard yesterday.
But a month later Zee 100, broadcasting on 105.1 FM was found to be
in full operation again from another address. Another search warrant
was obtained and more equipment seized. Richard Clancy, prosecuting.
'Dale Cooper' of Bebington, 'Steve Moorcroft' and two others admitted
using a station for wireless telegraphy without a licence. All but
'Cooper' pleaded guilty to using apparatus for an illegal station.
Broadcasting was traced to a flat in Oxton, Birkenhead on the first
occasion and another location in the same area on second date. John
Weate, defending said, his clients "treated it as fun , running
the station", but accepted they were not in a fun situation
facing the court. He said no money was made but the property seized
was worth œ2,500. He said the purpose of the involvement of the
accused was to get experience in the hope of gaining future work in
the broadcasting field. Mr. Weate pleaded for the return of around
400 records which were seized, but was unsuccessful. The magistrates
confiscated everything and fined each defendant 200 Pounds .
Liverpool Daily Post. Thursday September 8th 1994
Wirral Globe Wednesday 14th September 1994
Persistent pirates in the dock
A Wirral pirate radio was put off the air when equipment was seized
during a raid - but a month later Zee 100 began operating again from
another address in Birkenhead, Wirral magistrates heard.
Four members from the pirate station, which claimed to be the biggest
on Merseyside appeared in court and admitted various offences. They
were each fined œ200 and the magistrates ordered that equipment
taken, including records, tapes and transmitters and said to be
valued at 2,500 Pounds, be forfeited.
"Dale Cooper". "Steve Moorcroft", and two others
admitted using a station for wireless telegraphy without a licence in
force, and all except "Cooper" admitted using apparatus
without a licence. "Cooper" also pleaded guilty to
providing the use of a mobile phone for use in the day-to-day running
of the illegal station and "Moorcroft" and another admitted
allowing premises to be used for unlawful broadcasting and
participating in the management and day to day running of an illegal station.
Prosecutor Richard Clancy for the department of Trade and Industry,
told how members of the Radio Investigation section traced the
station to a flat in Oxton after complaints of interference with
radio and television sets had been received.
A search warrant was executed and items seized and the station
stopped broadcasting. But further complaints were received and it was
found to be broadcasting from another address in the same area. again
another search warrant was obtained and items seized. Mr. John Weate,
defending, said the four admitted responsibility. He said they
treated it as 'fun' running the station but realised it was no fun
event to be before the court. He claimed no money was made and they
were just getting experience in the hope of obtaining a work in the
broadcasting field.
Wirral Globe, Wednesday 14th September 1994
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