As usual when we approach a significant change in the COVID restrictions in England, we've started to receive some queries around how this will impact portable contesting. We are continuing to apply the principle of simply requiring stations to strictly follow their local COVID restrictions and advisories. Therefore, from 29th March, as the 'Stay at Home' restriction is removed in England, we will once again accept portable entries from stations in England. Portable multi-operator entries must normally be from the same household/bubble as typical portable locations, camper vans, cars and tents are considered indoors and indoor mixing of households is still not allowed.

As ever - the situation is not consistent across the whole of the UK. Our current reading of the situation as of 23^rd March is

 

• Wales : Welsh residents can submit portable entries provided that they do not travel more than 5 miles, and as a result at this time non-residents cannot enter Wales. The situation in Wales is expected to be reviewed on 26^th March.

 

• Scotland : Portable entries will be permitted from 2^nd April provided the operation stays local

 

• Northern Ireland : Portable entries are not currently allowed - but next Government review on 15^th April

 

• Isle of Man : Portable entries are not currently allowed due to Stay at Home order

 

• Jersey : Single operator portable entries are now acceptable. Multi operator expected from 10^th May

 

• Guernsey : Portable entries are now acceptable.

 

But - in summary - please follow your local COVID restrictions and guidance.

 

Good luck, stay safe, and enjoy yourselves

 

73

 

Andy - G4PIQ, Nick, G4FAL and Ian, G0FCT on behalf of all RSGB Contest Committees