Some British amateurs are keeping the morse code system alive.

The Morse Code Preservation Society is attempting to teach Morse to new radio users.

“We support an initiative which offers authenticated speed tests,” explains George Longden, secretary of the Morse Code Preservation Society in the UK.

“It will provide for tests of varying speeds at rallies and conventions throughout the country and we are also endeavouring to encourage other countries to undertake similar services.”

But there is also a large number of people with physical or speech impediments who find that tapping out dots and dashes can sometimes be an easier way to communicate.

John Hammond, from the Radio Amateurs Invalid and Blind Association, says some radio users write with Morse keys which are modified to suit their disabilities.

“I remember a chap who couldn’t speak and was totally paralysed, but he was able to use his Morse key with his tongue, which was marvellous. Another chap, known as Twinkle Toes, could use his big toe… I think that was the only part of his body that he could use.”

Via BBC News.