As the fate of the historic Marconi New Street works still hangs in the balance, it is possible that the site will not survive to see its centenary. To celebrate the history of this important factory Tim Wander, author of ‘2MT Writtle The Birth of British Broadcasting’ and ‘Marconi on the Isle of Wight’ is writing a photographic history of the site, including some previously unseen photographs from the earliest days of New Street.

The book will be produced in a large format with high quality photographs. Each photograph will be captioned and the amazing story of the Marconi Factory and the Company will be told on the facing pages. The current plan is to produce an outstanding record and souvenir of the world’s first purpose built wireless factory. The plan is to have it ready for the 100th anniversary which is fast approaching in 2012.

So this is an appeal to the Marconi veterans, town historians and any ‘authors’ who might to like to contribute to the book. I am looking for stories, memories, reports and anecdotes from any time, but especially from the 1930’s through to the late 1970’s. One line or 50, 50 or 500 - anything would be good. The plan is to edit them together as a ‘walk through time‘. All contributions and contributors will be fully recognised in the book and each mini author will of course receive a numbered copy.

I can be contacted on timwander{at}compuserve.com or see 2mtwrittle.com. Please send me anything including any scanned personal photographs of the site – some later team photos would be great.

Also Tim’s new book, 2MT Writtle The Birth of British Broadcasting hit the news stands in October 2010. If you remember Writtle or have any photographs or documents about the first Chelmsford or 2MT broadcasts or even if you find a mistake in the book please email Tim. In one year, through the wonders of digital printing the book will be reviewed and any corrections or updates can be made. Again contact me via timwander{at}compuserve.com.

Thanks Tim Wander.