ObsessionObsession - A Life in Wireless

Gerald Wells

The autobiography of Gerald Wells, edited by Jonathan Hill. This book was presented free to BVWS members. Non-members may purchase copies from the BVWS or the Museum for £6 plus postage. Paperback book, 196 pages.

Gerry Wells has led an extrodinary life. Growing up in the London suburb of Dulwich in the inter-war years he shunned a conventional 1930s childhood and prefered instead to use wireless and other household electrical items as his everyday toys. His acquisitive nature for such things brought about a spell in remand homes and approved schools, but after the war, with help, he managed to embark on a career as a radio and TV service engineer and even designed and manufactured amplifiers, PA equipment and TVs. Never the world's most astute businessman, he often fell on hard times but always seemed to find a creative way out, one way or another. Today he still repairs and services radios, and runs the renouned Vintage Wireless Museum from the same family home where he was born in 1929.

Through accomplished writing and a great gift for story-telling, Gerry Wells brings to life his colourfull past, describing with great affection his wireless adventures, the people and places that were part of his 'Manor' - the odd-ball characters who drifted in and out of his life, and the steadfast ones who remained to see him through thick and thin. This is the story of one man's life-long dedication to wireless - a dedication which led him into trouble but which eventually was his saviour - a dedication which became his Obsession.

The front and rear covers show Gerry Wells holding Archie Roots' Belmont Radio, the one which got him into trouble in 1943.