HANDEL was the code-name for the UK's National Attack Warning System in the Cold War. It consisted of a small console consisting of two microphones, lights and gauges. The reason behind this was to provide a back-up if anything failed. For the generic term for a high-tension rivalry between countries, see cold war (war). ...
If an enemy air strike was detected, a key on the left hand side of the console would be turned and two lights would come on. Then the operator would press & hold down a red button and give the message:
"ATTACK IMMINENT! ATTACK IMMINENT!"
The message would be sent to the police by the the telephone lines used for the speaking clock, who would in turn activate the air attck sirens using the local telephone lines. The rationale was to kill two birds with one stone, as it reduced running costs (it would most likely be used only once in it's working life)and the telephone lines were under constant test by sharing with a public service. That means a fault could be detected in time to give a warning. A speaking clock service is used for people who wish to know the correct and accurate time. ...
A Handel Warning console can be seen at The Imperial War Museum in London among their cold war exhibits, along side the warning apparatus used by Kent Police (which was located at Maidstone police station to activate the sirens. Imperial War Museum, Lambeth, London The original location of the Imperial War Museum was the Crystal Palace, located at the top of Sydenham Hill. ... The Clock Tower of the Palace of Westminster, which contains Big Ben London is the capital city of the United Kingdom and of England. ... For the generic term for a high-tension rivalry between countries, see cold war (war). ... Kent is a county in England, south-east of London. ... Maidstone is the county town of Kent, in southeast England, about 30 miles from London. ...
Handel was born at Halle in Prussia, and died in London.
Handel was director of the Royal Academy of Music 1720-28, and a partner of J. Heidegger in the management of the King's Theatre 1729-34.
Handel's compositions include some fifty operas, twenty-three oratorios, and a large amount of church music, not to speak of his superb instrumental pieces, such as the organ concerti, the Opus 6 Concerti Grossi, the Water Music, and the Fireworks Music.
Feeds |
Contact