With conditions described as 'average' and 'poor', the activity was lower than in this contest than last year.  The standard of operating was generally good, but one entrant lost about 40% of his QSOs because of errors made in receiving or logging - perhaps this was because of the deep QSB much of the time.  However the weather was helpful for those going out portable, with the number of QSOs made by the top entrants about the same as in 2016.

Leading stations generally made over half of their QSOs in the first hour, so the next two hours would have seemed rather slow!  There were several QSOs of over 1000 km, and the usual number of QSOs made on CW - always useful when conditions become worse than average.

The winner in the Open Section was Phil, G3TCU, with runner-up Sue, G8SFI, assisted by Barry, G4KCT.  The Single-operator Fixed Section was won by Fred, G4BWP, and second place was taken by Terry, G3MXH.  Rhys, GW4RWR, was the Leading Fixed Station running 25 watts or less to a single antenna, and Andy, 2E0VPX, was the Leading Intermediate Entrant.  All of them receive certificates.

Conrad, PA5Y, a stalwart of RSGB contests, deserves a mention for his high score, mainly comprised of longer distance QSOs with the UK and the continent.

Thanks to all for entering, and we hope to see you in future 4m contests soon.

Ed, G3SQX