Dunbar’s reputation as “Sunny Dunny” stems from the fact that we have our own weather station, and readings are taken on a daily basis. However the two volunteers are about to retire, and replacements are urgently needed. Here is information direct from the Met Office.
The Met Office is the United Kingdom’s National Weather Service and is responsible for the provision of climate and weather forecasting services in the UK. One of our roles is to gather and collate the National Archive for Climate which we hold for use by the people of the UK.
One of the major sources for data that goes into the archive is the voluntary climate observing network. This is a network of stations throughout the UK where volunteers manually take daily climate readings and report them to the Met Office.
The Dunbar station has a long history, having been opened in 1930 at the behest of Sir William Keith. It is based just off North Road, near to the tennis courts. It is an easy walk from the town centre, or parking is available at the site.
The two current observers have, deservedly, decided to give up their duties. Who can blame them after 30 plus years?
We are currently looking for a small band of two or more volunteer observers who would be willing to give some time to take these readings on behalf of the Met Office and the District Council for the Dunbar weather station.
The people we are looking for would preferably have an interest in weather, and be able to spare approximately five to 10 minutes to share in the collection of readings in Dunbar at around 0900 GMT on a daily basis.
Travel to and from the station would be additional to the time to take the readings. One of the sensors is on a tower, so an ability to climb stairs is essential. An annual stipend is payable in order to offset any expense incurred in undertaking these duties.
Training and full support will be provided. Ideally some people in the group should to be able to use the internet, but if you are unable to do this, please do not be put off.
If you are interested or have any questions, please contact Ian Dawson from the Met Office on 01576 610545 or via email at ian.dawson@metoffice.gov.uk