Celebrations to mark the 120th anniversary of the first radio transmission have been hailed a success and brought an influx of visitors to The Needles.
The event marked the achievement of Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi who successfully sent the world’s first long-distance radio transmission from his base near The Needles more than a century ago.
The highlight of the summer season at the landmark attraction, Marconi’s Day saw The Needles step back in time with staff wearing 19th century clothing and a Victorian theme adopted throughout. Live music was provided by the award-winning Macclesfield Youth Brass Band and theatrical re-enactments of Marconi’s feat entertained the crowds.
The Isle of Wight Radio Society also had a strong presence on the day, setting up a station at the The Needles Landmark Attraction to give visitors a chance to see how Marconi’s transmissions were really sent back in 1897.
Marino Zanti, general manager at The Needles Landmark Attraction, said:
“Our Marconi’s Day event proved very popular with our seasonal guests and I’m pleased so many could come along to celebrate the groundbreaking technological leap forward that Marconi achieved during his time on the Isle of Wight.”
Free summer events at The Needles Landmark Attraction continue through to the end of August with fireworks spectaculars supporting island charities happening every Thursday evening.
