The First Class CW Operators' Club (FOC) web site is dedicated to the achievements and expertise of FOC members in amateur radio. A celebration of the contribution by our members to the development and enjoyment of the hobby.

FOC with its roots, history and management in the UK, promotes good CW (morse code) operating, activity, friendship and socialising via its worldwide membership of 500. Members are active on all HF bands and the character of the club is best expressed in its motto: “A man should keep his friendship in constant repair” – Samuel Johnson (1755)

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Bob G3PJT (FOC 1778) operates 40m CW at GB7HQ

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One of the club's past members, W5FXN, summarised the essentials of the organisation in one of the monthly news-sheets:

"FOC is more than a club; it is a way of life, a camaraderie. It is an organised effort to that which is good for all by example. FOC means more than a clean CW operator capable of transcribing 60 wpm in Old-English characters with a 6" brush. FOC means a clean signal, a willingness to QRS to 3 wpm for the struggling beginner, a helping hand for the aspirant down the street, a feeling of one-ness who would like to see the level of amateur radio rise. FOC is not an award, it is a goal"

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Al Slater Award 2009

The Al Slater, G3FXB, Memorial Award presented by the First Class CW Operators Club

The Award is presented once a year to an individual, group or society that has, in the judgement of the FOC Committee, made an outstanding contribution to the hobby that reflects the attitudes and approach of Al Slater. This came from exemplary and considerate operating standards and a high level of encouragement, friendship and support given to other amateurs, especially newcomers. Al’s whole approach to amateur radio, and indeed, to many aspects of life itself, was something that others appreciate, look up to and seek to emulate.

The winner for 2009 is Don Field, G3XTT, shown here receiving the award from Al Slater's Daughter.

Citation/Bio for Don G3XTT.