North East Derbyshire RAYNET has been around since 1995 and has operated in conjunction with other RAYNET groups since it's inception.

It is a condition of the 1949 Wireless Telegraphy Act (under which all licensees are issued) that amateurs may be requested by "user services" to provide communication facilities. Since the Act was passed the definition of user services has expanded but is essentially Police, Fire, Ambulance as well as Red Cross, Council Emergency Planning Officers etc. Since 1949 wireless communications have advanced somewhat (!) and the User Services all have comprehensive communication systems.  However in disaster situations even the best systems fail or become overloaded - Raynet can and does help. Perhaps by providing the initial rapid response, setting up a communications centre  and providing the initial links; then as time goes on and the User Services get their own systems established  Raynet will take over handling non-urgent traffic.

RAYNET's activities were at one time mainly based on providing emergency communications to the User Services and, although communications technology have moved on, there is still a need to provide radio communications in times of emergency, when called upon.

RAYNET groups operate under a variety of different callsigns although N.E. Derbyshire group does not have it's own callsign at present.
Charity events such as sponsored walks, runs and cycle rides make good training exercises. 
When called by these groups, RAYNET members will turn out, often at short notice, to any part of Derbyshire and the surrounding areas, to provide the necessary communication links for the safety of these events. We also liaise with other RAYNET Groups who need or provide additional resources.

We have at our disposal a wide range of experienced people, equipment and vehicles, which allow us to be prepared for any occasion.  Indeed we are proud never to have let anybody down when asked to cover an event with safety communications.

Our recent attendance at the 2006 Elvaston Castle Radio Rally (oh behalf of Derby RAYNET) shows our commitment to revitalising RAYNET as an organisation.