WTBS News
Updates on the WTBS project
On the lookout for...
With a wish to get the studio recreation as right as it can be, I am on the lookout for a number of BBC badged BS1363 13 amp mains plugs to power the equipment.
In the 1980s these were made for the BBC by MK, the electrical equipment manufacturer. They used the base and pins of the company's standard product, but changed the top for one with a BBC logo.
I already have a few but am short by about four.
Please drop me a line via the contact form on the Home page if you can help.
An honour to be invited
Iain is honoured to be invited to deliver a presentation on the WTBS to the annual conference of the Nuclear Community Charity Fund on the 9th May 2026.
The Nuclear Community Charity Fund was set up to provide help to the veterans and descendants of the British Nuclear Tests in the 1950s. It provides help and support through their Care Wellbeing and Inclusion Fund.
Cold War Heritage Week
The second annual National Cold War Heritage Week returns from 18 to 24 May 2026 with a nationwide celebration of one of the most fascinating chapters in modern history.
National Cold War Heritage Week shines a spotlight on the remarkable variety of the UK’s Cold War story – from secrecy and civil defence to innovation, preparedness, and the everyday experiences of people who lived through it. It’s an opportunity to explore extraordinary places, meet passionate experts, and discover how the Cold War shaped the world we know today.
One of those "passionate experts" is Iain Betson, who will be delivering his presentation on the WTBS at The Yorkshire Air Museum on the 15th May.
The talks continue - book yours
Currently, bookings for Iain to deliver his one-hour talk on the WTBS have been made into 2027 by social, history and special interest groups across the UK.
Either in-person or on-line your group can find out this facinating, little-known, but hidden in plain sight, subject by booking Iain to deliver to your social group.
Find out more by visiting Speakernet.co.uk
"Thank you for a most interesting and informative talk, which was enjoyed by all our members. I have to say that I don’t remember being as frightened in the 70s and 80s as when I heard your recordings from the time!"
"It was fascinating to hear your presentation last night, thank you so much"
A WTBS display - the biggest so far
Look out for news later in the year for a WTBS themed display and presentation at the Broadcast Engineering Conservation Groups's museum at Hemswell Cliff in Lincolnshire.
"I used to love rooting through our big red WTBS folder on night shift, all those wonderful codewords!"
A J - BBC staff member