APCIC - Vol 04 No 12 - 1979

Magazine Overview

This is the December 1979 issue, Volume 4, No. 12, of the AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER newsletter. The cover prominently features headlines about UFO sightings, including "UFO seen over Lake Michagan," "UFO? Spotted Over Brazil," and "UFO sighting in Guelph." The center is located at P.O. Box 9073, Cleveland, Ohio 44137.

Contents

UFO Sightings and Encounters

Cumberland County, Tennessee: Several residents reported a UFO sighting on Tuesday night, October 18, 1979. Airport supervisor George Adcock confirmed reports from the Bakers' Crossroads area. Two out-of-town pilots on an instrument training flight also confirmed seeing the object 12 miles north of Crossville Memorial Airport. They described it as unlike anything they had ever seen and followed it northward before losing sight of it beyond Jamestown. The pilots agreed it was not an airplane or helicopter and moved at extreme speed. George Adcock noted that UFO sightings seem to occur in seven-year cycles, with reports in 1965 and 1972.

Tenerife, Canary Islands: Passengers on a Caravelle jet reported that unidentified flying objects, described as pulsating red objects zig-zagging across the night sky, made two attempts to intercept their aircraft on Sunday, November 16, 1979. An elderly male passenger collapsed. The jet made an emergency landing in Valencia. The objects were described as oval and bright red. The airport director corroborated the claim, and several Valencia region residents also reported seeing a UFO, described as an orange disc flying toward the sea in complete silence, radiating a beaming light.

Deer Park, Delaware: A UFO was reported to Deer Park law enforcement on Thursday morning, October 24, 1979. A woman described seeing a strobe light on a star that moved and disappeared when she rounded a corner, noting there was no noise. The sighting was to be reported to Phenomenon Research in Seattle.

Blount County, Tennessee: Mrs. John R. Norton, wife of a weatherman, reported seeing a UFO on Wednesday night, October 25, 1979. She described lights hovering about 300 feet in the air, with a green light pulsating and red and white lights on a horizontal object. A spark was emitted from the green light but did not touch the ground. She heard no noise. Supervisor Bill Solomon of the Federal Aviation Administration stated that on clear fall nights, stars and planets can look exceptionally bright, often leading to UFO sighting calls. He noted that his agency noticed nothing unusual at the time of the sighting.

Fresno, California: Judy Kendall of Yolo County claims she was abducted by a UFO and examined by three types of aliens. She was scheduled to speak in Fresno on November 3, 1979, at The Aware Center, playing tapes of hypnosis sessions with Dr. J. Allen Hynek.

Smyrna, Delaware: Four Smyrna policemen reported seeing unidentified flying objects on Sunday evening, October 18, 1979. They described seeing two objects to the north and two to the east, all with flashing red, white, and green lights, appearing to be about the size of a volleyball. Detective Bob Montgomery saw a white flashing object race across the sky. Corporal Howard Fortner saw lights to the north and east but could not make out any shape or movement.

Apple River, Wisconsin: Richard Breault and his wife reported an encounter with an unidentified flying object (UFO) on Thursday, October 25, 1979, about 6:30 a.m. near Half Moon Lake. They described a bright, shining light that descended and hovered about 20 feet above the road. Breault described the UFO as about 40 feet in length with a hump in the middle, one end square and the other sloped. He stated it was out of sight in about six seconds. About three-fourths of the UFO was reddish, with the top quarter a combination of red, green, yellow, and orange. The craft then shot across Half Moon Lake at an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 miles per hour. The couple did not report it immediately due to fear of disbelief.

Bradford, Pennsylvania: A sighting of an unidentified flying object was reported on Saturday evening, November 4, 1979. Residents described the object as a white ball of light trailing orange sparks, traveling from south to north at high speed. The sighting lasted a few seconds.

Oshkosh, Wisconsin: Several residents reported seeing an unidentified flying object on Saturday night, October 30, 1979. One man described a large red ball on fire in the sky that descended and apparently crashed, accompanied by a loud boom and a huge flash of light. Deputies could not locate evidence of a crash. The occurrence was definitely not fireworks.

Methow, Washington: A party of five reported seeing a startling object or objects on Friday, October 5, 1979, north of Methow. The object(s) were described as dark between two parts, with sparkling, shooting lights resembling a Fourth of July rocket. The largest and top light was flashing red. Mrs. Holms drew a sketch of the object(s).

Milford, Delaware: Numerous calls were received by police regarding sightings of flashing lights, described as red, green, and white, resembling a patrol car beacon. Theories included military maneuvers involving helicopters and a dirigible (blimp). Sergeant Ken Wheatley of Troop 4 learned that the state police dispatcher was told by Dover Air Force Base that the maneuvers were "Delaware's own." Major Robert Groom of Dover Air Force Base stated the base had been out of the UFO business since 1971 and all reports were transferred to a UFO siting station in Washington. NASA's Wallops Island confirmed ozone study demonstrations using rockets, satellites, and balloons, but these did not begin until October 21 and could not have been seen from Delaware.

Georgetown, Delaware: Freelance photographer George Stevenson captured a photograph of a UFO on Friday night, November 1, 1979, east over Milton. The object was described as white with red and green flashing lights, consistent with other reports from Slaughter and Bowers Beach. Bob Pratt, a reporter for the National Enquirer, visited Georgetown but did not obtain a photograph.

UFOs in Area?

This section compiles reports of UFO sightings in Delaware, including those in Georgetown and Smyrna. The Milford Police Department began investigating after receiving calls about flashing lights. Theories ranged from military maneuvers to hoaxes. The possibility of a blimp was also considered. The article notes that the Dover Air Force Base is no longer involved in UFO investigations, transferring reports to a station in Washington. NASA's Wallops Island denied involvement in the Delaware sightings.

Cattle Mutilations

Alberta and Saskatchewan: Mysterious marauders responsible for "sick" mutilations of cows and bulls in Alberta have apparently moved into Saskatchewan. A heifer's sex organs were sliced off in Melville, and a horse's ears were cut off in Mossbank. Two Calgary RCMP officers were investigating new clues in Alberta. The mutilations often involve the removal of sex organs, ears, and tongues with surgical precision. Theories blame UFOs, the CIA, religious cults, and satanic worshippers. An RCMP spokesman dismissed the UFO and CIA theories as "ridiculous," suspecting devil worshippers or cultists instead. Canada has seen over 12,000 cases reported in the U.S. since the early 1970s.

Alberta: A dead calf was confirmed as the fifth cattle mutilation discovered in Alberta since Saturday, October 15, 1979. Other animals were found mutilated near Airdrie, St. Albert, Nanton, and Caroline. Veterinarian Dr. David Green of Airdrie called the Airdrie case "classic," while the others were termed "copy-cat mutilations."

'Tremors' shake waterfront

Several mysterious blasts shook the Toronto waterfront on November 16, 1979. Metro police and firefighters could not determine the source. Buildings in the Cherry Street and Unwood Avenue district were shaken, and Ward's Island residents felt the tremors. Toronto International Airport reported no aircraft missing. Captain Robert Schoales of the island firehall described a loud explosion that shook the firehall. Callers reported seeing a "bright white light" zip across the city around the time of the explosions. A Toronto Hydro spokesman had heard of similar tremors earlier in the week.

The mysterious case of Fred Valentich and the UFO

This article commemorates the first anniversary of the disappearance of Australian pilot Fred Valentich on October 21, 1978. Valentich, a 20-year-old pilot, was flying a Cessna 182L along the shoreline to Cape Ottway and across the Bass Strait when he reported an "aircraft" nearby. The article includes a verbatim transcript of the conversation between Valentich and Melbourne Flight Service, supplemented with details from Dr. J. Allen Hynek's investigation.

UFO UPDATE Information

The issue includes information for "UFO UPDATE," a publication for further inquiries, with contact details for Tom Grey at the Northeastern UFO Organization in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. A single copy price of $1.50 is listed. The cover of UFO UPDATE is shown, featuring "SCIENCE: The Greatest Scticar Stary Ever Told PART 2."

A.P.C.I.C. Services

The A.P.C.I.C. Clipping Service provides monthly news releases. Subscription rates are $5.00 a month (including the Supplement Section) in the U.S. & Canada, and $6.00 a month for foreign subscriptions, including air mailing. Checks or money orders should be made payable to A.P.C.I.C.

UFO Communicators Network

Page Research Library offers worldwide communications and invites people to get involved. A sample newsletter and catalog can be obtained by sending $2.00 to PAGE RESEARCH, P.O. Box 5012, Rome, OH 44085.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, cattle mutilations, and unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting on these events with a degree of seriousness, while acknowledging the skepticism often associated with such claims, as evidenced by the "we'll-believe-it-when-we-see-it" syndrome mentioned in the Georgetown article. The publication aims to collect and disseminate information on these topics, as indicated by its name and the inclusion of various news clippings from different sources.

Title: UFO REPORT
Issue: OCTOBER 1979
Volume: VOL. 1, NO. 4
Date: October 1979
Publisher: UFO REPORT
Price: $1.50

This issue of UFO Report delves into a variety of unexplained aerial phenomena and encounters reported across different regions in late 1979. The magazine features detailed accounts from pilots, law enforcement, and ordinary citizens, highlighting the growing public interest and concern surrounding UFO sightings.

Key Articles and Reports

The Valentich Encounter

The lead story details the perplexing disappearance of pilot Frederick Valentich over Australia. The transcript of his final radio communications reveals his encounter with a large, unidentified aircraft exhibiting unusual lights and behavior. Valentich described the object as having four bright lights, appearing to be a large aircraft, and moving at speeds he could not identify. He noted that his engine began to idle roughly and that the object was not an aircraft. Despite extensive searches, Valentich and his plane were never found, leaving the incident as one of the most significant UFO cases.

Unexplained Lights in the USA

Several reports from the United States describe sightings of unexplained lights. In Fast Prairie, Missouri, a mysterious light was observed in the northeast sky for several nights, flashing red, green, and white. Dr. Harley Rutledge, director of Project Identification, investigated, suggesting it could be a star like Sirius or Capella, or a true UFO. The article provides guidance on how to observe celestial objects and differentiate them from potential UFOs.

In Winsted, Connecticut, four residents witnessed fast-blinking lights moving erratically in the sky near Barkhamsted. Mary Lee Marino and her companions described the lights as red, green, and white, moving vertically and horizontally, and at times appearing to hover without making noise. The report notes that airport radar often misses such phenomena.

In Baldwin, Wisconsin, Scott Sieracki reported seeing two shining lights hovering above a sunflower field. His account, investigated by Bradley E. Ayers of the Center for UFO Studies, included descriptions of the lights casting beams and leaving a slightly browner patch of grass in a circular shape. A previous sighting by Scott's mother in 1974 also involved a crescent-shaped craft.

Official Confirmations and Investigations

Reports from Delaware highlight official involvement. Dover Air Force Base confirmed that its approach radar detected two unidentified, stationary contacts near Laurel, Delaware, on the same morning that four state troopers observed similar hovering objects. While the Air Force suggested the radar contacts might be 'ground clutter,' the consistency with witness reports is noted. Investigations were turned over to the National UFO Reporting Center.

In another Delaware incident, police in Smyrna reported seeing an object surrounded by alternating red, white, and green lights. Dover Air Base reported no unidentified aircraft in the area.

International Sightings

The issue also covers international UFO reports. A pilot flying a Caravelle jetliner with 109 passengers over the Mediterranean near Ibiza reported being pursued by four unidentified flying objects. The jet made an emergency landing, and airport officials confirmed the sighting. Spain's Transport Minister ordered an investigation, stating, "It is clear that UFOs exist."

Other Notable Reports

Other sightings include a "green ball" seen in Madison, Wisconsin, by at least six people, including a police patrol sergeant, described as moving faster than a rocket. In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a reported UFO sighting in Spanish airspace is noted as being well-documented, involving a pilot who diverted his plane and airport personnel who also saw the objects.

Cattle Mutilations

Briefly mentioned is a report from Edmonton, Canada, concerning cattle mutilations, with 15 cases in Alberta involving the removal of cow hearts and sex organs from a steer.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence of unexplained aerial phenomena, the challenges in identifying and explaining these sightings, and the involvement of both civilian witnesses and official bodies like law enforcement and military bases. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting these events thoroughly, presenting witness accounts, and exploring potential explanations, while acknowledging the persistent mystery surrounding many UFO encounters. The magazine aims to inform readers about the latest developments in UFO research and reporting.

This issue of the "Stephen, Minn. Messenger" dated November 8, 1979, prominently features a "Sheriff Brekke Releases Final Report On UFO Incident." The magazine also includes a collection of other UFO sighting reports from various locations in the USA and the UK, published in November 1979.

Sheriff Brekke's UFO Incident Report

The main article details a UFO incident that involved Deputy Val Johnson on August 27, 1979. The report was compiled by Roland D. Wardell, a registered professional metallurgical engineer with 23 years of experience at Honeywell. Samples were submitted to Mr. Wardell for analysis.

The report discusses six associated phenomena and then attempts to discuss possible causes:

1. Intense Light: Described as a beam that became overwhelmingly bright, suggesting an unnatural source using lenses.
2. Glass Breakage: Definite signs of impact were found, with residue containing iron, silicon, aluminum, and calcium. The direction of breakage and imprint on the car's hood indicated a near-horizontal angle of attack, consistent with the car's speed of 60-65 mph.
3. Engine Stoppage: The car functioned normally afterward, indicating the stoppage was not mechanical but a temporary disruption of the electrical system.
4. Driver Unconscious: The driver was unconscious for up to 40 minutes. It's unclear if this was due to the bump on the head or other "phenomena" disrupting the body's electro-chemical signals.
5. Malfunction of Clock and Watch: Both the automobile clock and a wrist watch malfunctioned temporarily, similar to the engine failure.
6. Bent Antennas: The antennas were bent, not due to high temperature, but possibly from a force that caused them to flex towards the rear due to the car's speed. The force was described as relatively uniform, possibly electrical, fluid (air), or hand forces.

The report concludes by discussing potential causes, suggesting the light's beam-like shape implies an unnatural source and that the electrical system disruption could be linked to the phenomena.

Other UFO Sightings and Reports

Laurel, Del. Register (October 24, 1979): Marie Poltrock reported seeing a cigar-shaped object, appearing as a long line of fire, moving slowly in a westerly direction for about 20 minutes before changing direction and disappearing.

North Arlington, N.J. Leader (November 8, 1979): A UFO was spotted on Garret Mountain by joggers and travelers. It was identified as a man-carrying hot air balloon publicizing the United Way campaign kickoff. The balloon, filled with two tons of hot air, slowly lifted.

Charlotte News, N.C. (November 15, 1979): A pilot diverted his plane with 109 passengers and seven crew to make an emergency landing in Spanish airspace due to unidentified flying objects buzzing him and threatening collision. Air force jets were reportedly sent up and filmed the object. Spain's transport minister ordered an investigation, stating, "It is clear that UFOs exist."

Old Saybrook, Conn. Pictorial (October 23, 1979): Henry E. Josten, Editor, recounts Mrs. John Gillespie's sighting of a strange, bright object moving horizontally then dropping straight down northwest of the Connecticut Turnpike.

Dunkirk, N.Y. Observer (November 19, 1979): Rosemary Sabatino reported seeing a UFO near Weaver Road shaped like a seashell or egg with a large laser or ray-like light on the front. Her 8-year-old son also saw it. The object reversed direction, moved vertically, and a smaller light dropped from it.

Huntingdon, Tenn. Carroll Co. News (November 8, 1979): Five people reported seeing colored lights stacked on top of each other, changing colors and moving erratically. Tony Farley described them as "scary" and noted they had no special shape, just lights.

The Globe (December 11, 1979): A farmer, Curtis Olson, claimed a UFO landed in his cornfield in Wisconsin, leaving a 30-foot wide circle where stalks were flattened, with a smaller circle nearby. His wife, Theresa, noted the object hovered before landing.

Evening Tribune, California (November 24, 1979): Deputy sheriffs Ron Cottingham and Myron Porter reported seeing "balls of light" in East County, described as red, blue, and white spotlights stacked on top of each other, moving erratically.

Hudson, Wis. Star Observer (November 15, 1979): Bradley Ayers, an investigator of unidentified flying objects, discusses his work and the nature of UFO phenomena. He notes that researchers have yet to find viable scientific evidence but that some cases defy explanation. Ayers has investigated around 200 UFO reports in his territory, classifying about a dozen as "hard-core" cases, some involving abductions. He believes UFOs are historical, worldwide, and reported by credible persons.

Hudson, Wis. Star Observer (November 23, 1979): This article continues the discussion with Bradley Ayers, who speculates that UFOs might be nudging humanity through subtle behavior modification. He mentions Billy Graham's book "Angels: God's Secret Agents" and Hal Lindsey's views on UFOs. The article also details a specific incident reported by a teenager who saw two intensely bright white lights revolving around each other.

Trent Evening Sentinel, England (November 7, 1979): A "Letters to the Editor" piece by A.W. Davis describes witnessing a hovering object with two white searchlight beams and red porthole lights, which moved rapidly and disappeared. He also mentions reports of diamond-shaped objects and strange lights in the Bucknall and Newcastle areas.

Derby Evening Telegraph, England (November 14, 1979): Seven more claims of UFO sightings in Derby are reported, including a kite or diamond-shaped object with bright white or amber lights seen between 7:30 and 8:00 p.m. on a Monday night.

Islington Gazette, England (November 23, 1979): Marian O'Shea, a librarian, claims to have had a close encounter with a glowing, silver disc-shaped object hovering near her home in Arundel Square.

Warrington Guardian, England (November 2, 1979): UFO spotters David Evans and Peter Ryder reported seeing an orange light in the sky over Sankey Brook, which vanished and reappeared before flying off fast.

Suffolk Journal, England (October 31, 1979): A report of an unidentified flying object over the sea off Lowestoft was received by police. An employee at the Birds Eye factory saw a UFO and brilliant white lights over the sea and moon.

Glasgow Evening Times, Scotland (November 2, 1979): This article discusses a "HIGH-SPEED U.F.O. THE MORNING SKY" and reports of strange space creatures in Scotland. It mentions a possible meteorite or satellite re-entering the atmosphere, seen streaking across the country.

Western Telegraph, Wales (November 1, 1979): Ufologist Randall Pugh reported an "Invasion" clue with sightings of silvery discs over Pembrokeshire and new evidence of a 1977 UFO "invasion," including a mysterious depression at Belmont Farm.

Glasgow Herald, Scotland (October 25, 1979): Another mysterious flying object, described as a large elliptical object, was spotted hurtling over Glasgow, the second in two days. Air traffic control confirmed no plane was in the area.

Whitby Gazette, England (November 2, 1979): Reports of UFO sightings in the Whitby area include flashing lights over a farm, saucer-shaped objects with red and white flashing lights, and two flashing lights approaching Whitby along the coast.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this collection of articles are the persistent reports of unidentified flying objects and strange lights across diverse geographical locations. The editorial stance, as suggested by the inclusion of these reports and the detailed analysis in the lead article, is one of serious consideration and investigation into UFO phenomena, even while acknowledging the skepticism and difficulty in explaining many sightings. The articles highlight the variety of shapes, behaviors, and effects attributed to these objects, and the ongoing efforts by individuals, law enforcement, and organizations like the British UFO Society to document and understand these events. There is a clear emphasis on credible witnesses and the baffling nature of many unexplained incidents.

This compilation of articles from various UK newspapers in November 1979 focuses on a surge of reported Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) sightings across the country. The issue highlights numerous witness accounts, investigations, and public reactions to these mysterious aerial phenomena.

West Briton - November 8, 1979

Family flee as 'UFO glides in to land'

This article details the frightening experience of Mrs. Magdalene Oates, who, along with her two children, fled her home in Degembris, near Newlyn East, after witnessing a UFO. The incident began when her 16-year-old son, Jonathan, noticed a bright orange light in the sky. Mrs. Oates described the object as egg-shaped and bright red with lights at the bottom, which slowly glided towards a field about 300 yards away. The pulsating nature of the light, which dimmed and brightened rhythmically, convinced her it was not a bonfire. She drove her children to Truro, but ended up in Newquay where she contacted the police. Her mother, Mrs. Dorothy Kemp, confirmed her daughter's distress. Newquay police stated they were investigating the incident.

Nottingham Evening Post - November 5, 1979

All eyes on city UFO

Two women, Mrs. Edna Wiston and Mrs. Mary Bailey, were stopped by police officers in Sneintondale, Nottingham, to witness an unidentified flying object hovering in the sky. The object was described as being like a big star but flashing red, green, and white lights, and was not very high up. The officers had been observing the UFO for about 20 minutes before leaving duty. The women found the experience quite frightening and mesmerizing.

Burton Daily Mail - October 22, 1979

Uninvited guest

This report details a UFO sighting in Swadlincote, Derbyshire. Mr. Harold Timms, a solicitor, described seeing an incandescent, brilliant white, round ball object moving towards his house from Derby. He observed it appear above trees in Bretby Park, get brighter, and then move towards Hartshorne before glimmering out. Timms stated the object made no noise and, despite being about the size of a small one, had the wrong shape for a plane. He estimated it was about 500 yards away at its closest and was visible for 15-20 seconds, approaching and then moving off to the east at increasing speed.

Derby Evening Telegraph - November 13, 1979

UFO sightings over city last night claimed

This article compiles several UFO sighting claims made in Derby. One sighting involved four amber lights in a large kite shape travelling slowly from the north-west, witnessed by the Trevor Harrison family. Another report, occurring ten minutes earlier, described similar lights, more like an electric lamp, in a diamond shape moving steadily, seen by Mr. Tim Hassall and his family. An East Midlands Airport spokesman suggested that high-flying aircraft could sometimes be mistaken for UFOs, especially in clear weather conditions.

South Wales Argus - November 10, 1979

Star attraction is mystery to its followers

By John Brooks. This piece reports on a multi-coloured jewel-shaped UFO spinning and slowly orbiting the sky over Chepstow, Wales, which has been reported to the police. The object has been appearing nightly since October 1, attracting a following. Several families and nursing staff at Mount Pleasant Hospital have reported sightings. Nurse Mrs. Barbara Morgan described it as a big, odd-looking thing, like a big jewel with droppers, changing from green to orange and spinning to blue. She has seen it about 25 times, sometimes with two objects signalling each other. Mrs. Marion Thyer, who had previously reported a shining orange ball-shaped object, also confirmed sightings. Mr. Francis Thyer, her husband, described a big object in the sky with red, green, blue, and yellow lights, and two lights inside. He contacted an astronomer who was amazed. Mr. Thyer now looks for the object nightly. Chief Inspector Eric Keegan confirmed reports and informed appropriate authorities.

Gloucester Citizen - November 9, 1979

Passengers see UFO

Bus driver David Howell and 15 passengers reported seeing a UFO in Gloucester. Howell described it as looking like the sun but red-pink. The object was seen hovering over Horton Road.

Daily Record - November 12, 1979

PROBE INTO 'ALIENS' WHO MUGGED BOB

By Alec Murray. Experts are reportedly investigating charges of alien aggression following an incident involving Bob Taylor, a 60-year-old forestry worker from West Lothian. Taylor claims he was grabbed by two creatures who tried to drag him into a craft shaped like a spinning top. He was so shocked that a doctor ordered him to Bangour Hospital. His boss, Malcolm Drummond, stated Taylor had been through an ordeal and his trousers were torn. Drummond added that the ground indentations must have weighed a ton. Stuart Campbell, UFO investigations coordinator for the British UFO Research Association, stated he takes the report seriously.

Bradford Telegraph & Argus - November 14, 1979

Schoolboy spotted UFO-claim

Eleven-year-old Dominic Royston of Bradford reported seeing a UFO on Monday evening. He described it as a star that was oval, brighter, and bigger than others, moving further away and higher up. He noted it did not move like an aeroplane but very fast.

Trent Evening Sentinel - November 13, 1979

REPORTS OF MORE N. STAFFS. U.F.O.S

This article highlights a continuing spate of UFO sightings in North Staffordshire. Reports include a diamond shape and a cigar-like object seen over Stoke-on-Trent. Mr. David Eggleton described seeing bright lights in the sky, like a helicopter but a diamond shape with four bright lights, which remained stationary before moving towards Leek. Mrs. Beatrice Pendletos reported seeing a dullish red cigar shape with red lights at both ends crossing the sky. She expressed her belief in UFOs after this sighting. The article mentions that only 10% of actual sightings reach investigators in the UK.

Barnet Press - November 9, 1979

UFO sighting

Jeff Benjafield of Boreham Wood reported a UFO on Tuesday morning. It appeared at 6.45 a.m. above Stirling Corner, described as a very bright, white light like an elongated saucer with a loop of light that disappeared. Benjafield stated it was definitely not an aeroplane.

Daily Record - November 13, 1979

CREATURES OF THE WOOD BY BOB

By Jim Davis. Bob Taylor, a 61-year-old forestry worker, showed drawings of a spacecraft and recounted an encounter on Deer Hill, West Lothian. He described a round, dull grey craft about 20-30 feet across, which changed colours. Two round objects like balls with metal legs rolled towards him and tried to drag him into the craft. He reported no noise except from the rolling objects, and an overpowering smell. He heard his dog barking and later found his trousers ripped, with the craft and creatures gone. His boss, Malcolm Drummond, stated Taylor is a sensible man. A police spokesman confirmed they were investigating.

Evening Post (Leeds) - November 19, 1979

Close encounters of the weird kind on moors

Residents in the Whitby area are urged to report UFO sightings. Mr. Ken Rogers, director of the British UFO Society, stated that while many sightings have mundane explanations, a high proportion defy rational explanation. The society has no firm views on UFOs. The RAF tracking station at Fylingdales confirmed no aircraft were in the area during recent sightings in mid-October and early November. Six people reported seeing a UFO near Aislaby.

Trent Evening Sentinel - November 20, 1979

EYES ON THE SKY FOR UFOS

Stephen W. Banks, a UFO researcher, appeals for witnesses to come forward regarding UFO sightings in North Staffordshire. He notes that while many sightings have mundane explanations, the truly 'unidentified' remain mysterious. Banks highlights the high number of sightings in Staffordshire, partly due to busy airlanes. He estimates only 10% of actual sightings reach investigators. Banks calls for a cool scientific approach to the subject.

East Essex Gazette - November 10, 1979

Did you see a UFO?

Mrs. Rosina Pickering of Clacton reported seeing a great bright light, brighter than the moon, over Clacton on Wednesday evening. She watched it moving in circles for about 20 minutes, with clouds seeming to open to let it pass before it disappeared. She and others in her house were scared, but she was fascinated.

Trent Evening Sentinel - November 9, 1979

A CHANCE TO SWOP SPOOKY STORIES

People claiming strange encounters with ghosts and UFOs are invited to join a new club to exchange tales and help researchers. Mr. Terry Shotton is organizing a public meeting to launch the club.

BRADELEY COUPLE IN UFO CLAIM

Mr. and Mrs. Wendy and Neil Jones of Bradeley claim to have followed an unidentified flying object on their way home from Burslem. They described it as having four bright lights (two white, two flashing green and orange) and hovering silently. Mrs. Jones also reported seeing an identical object on October 22. Over 30 readers had telephoned the Sentinel about sightings the previous morning.

Yarmouth Mercury - November 23, 1979

'Close encounter' sightings reported

Numerous UFO sightings were reported in Yarmouth on Tuesday evening. Mrs. Dorothy Street, a local UFO investigator, received over 10 reports from various locations, generally describing a formation of lights fairly low in the sky. Police officers also witnessed the phenomenon. No feasible explanation had been provided by air bases. Mrs. Street hopes a cine film taken by a spotter will shed more light on the mystery. She also noted that many people might be too embarrassed to report sightings.

Trent Evening Sentinel - November 9, 1979

NO REPORT

Norfolk police investigated reports of three distress flares sighted over Rockland Broad, but found nothing. A wildfowler was suspected, but no missing person was reported. A Sea King rescue helicopter searched the area without success.

Lancashire Evening Telegraph - August 16, 1979

Sun theory for lights sighting

Mr. John Tuffs of Henhurst Ridge, Burton, reported seeing two bright, round white lights that didn't move for about three to four minutes before disappearing. An airport spokesman suggested this was likely the reflection of the setting sun on a plane travelling through international airways, a common sight in the summer.

Burton Daily Mail - August 15, 1979

Mystery 'star' has observers baffled

Steve Entwistle reports on a UFO sighting over Padiham, Lancashire. The object, described as a glow in the sky, was seen flying too high and too fast to be an aircraft, with no navigation lights. It appeared as a star but changed direction, flying in a zig-zag course before accelerating upwards. Mr. John Wood, who witnessed it, is interested in hearing from anyone else who saw a similar phenomenon.

Burton Daily Mail - August 23, 1979

RECORD OF UFOS

UFO spotters in the East Midlands are uniting to track the increasing number of sightings in the region. Various organizations will cooperate to build a pattern of UFO flights. A hotline to Leicester will be opened for immediate reports. Interested individuals can contact Mr. Cecil Bottomley.

Gloucester Citizen - August 20, 1979

City taxi driver sees UFO

A Gloucester taxi driver reported a UFO in the night sky over Stroud. He described a large disc surrounded with multi-coloured lights, travelling at around 10 mph with no noise and losing altitude. The report was noted by police.

Wolverhampton Express - August 25, 1979

Those encounters

This article mentions the first London International UFO Congress, where UFO sightings from around the world were discussed. The documentary 'UFOs Past Present and Future' was shown, featuring official photographs and a recreated landing. Organizers aimed to bring UFO study into scientific acceptability.

Evening Chronicle (Tyne) - August 18, 1979

Did you see this mystery light?

Michael Rebane is seeking information from anyone who saw an odd light over Wideopen. He and his wife saw a bright white light, stationary in the sky, which later moved and circled. The light changed colour from white to red, orange, and white. A Newcastle airport spokesman suggested it could have been an aircraft.

Dorset Evening Echo - August 22, 1979

Mystery object in the sky?

A frightened woman reported seeing a huge purple object lighting up the night sky over Radipole. It filled her bedroom with purple light and emitted a low hum. She was too frightened to get out of bed and watched it move off towards Weymouth. She asked for her name to be withheld due to fear of ridicule.

Daily Mirror - August 31, 1979

MYSTERY OF TINIEST UFO

Two flying instructors, Laurie Adlington and Simon Spence, reported close encounters with a UFO just nine inches long. Adlington described it as a flattened blob of mercury with hexagonal panels. Spence reported it flew off towards Farnborough at 150 miles per hour.

Kentish Express - August 24, 1979

Ridiculed by the sceptics, but can everyone be so wrong!

This article discusses the societal reaction to UFO sightings, where witnesses are often branded as lunatics or hoaxers. It recounts several historical sightings in the UK, including lights seen speeding up the Channel in 1970, a UFO hovering near Whitstable in 1972 that changed colour, strange objects seen over Faversham in 1972, and an unusual object seen at Lyminge Forest in 1975. It also mentions a British Air Ferries pilot seeing a UFO in 1976. The article concludes that the sheer number of reports, often from intelligent individuals, suggests a pattern that cannot be easily dismissed, posing the question of whether these are coincidences, conspiracies, or genuine descriptions of extraterrestrial craft. It calls for a scientific approach to research.

Nuneaton Evening Tribune - August 30, 1979

UFO sighting reported at Hinckley

Mr. Brian King reported seeing strange lights in the sky over Hinckley. He described an orange light that turned red and then green as it approached, passing overhead with complete silence. He believes it was something unusual. The Hinckley Aerial Phenomena Society is checking with other Midlands spotters.

Evening Courier - October 15, 1979

Another sighting of sparking object in sky

Mrs. Sheila Crowther reported seeing a suspected UFO on Friday morning. She described a round ball shape with holes in the side, emitting sparks. She and her husband and daughter viewed it through binoculars. The object moved away quickly. UFO expert Mr. Trevor Whitaker noted that while many agree about the sparks, there are disagreements on direction, and he was puzzled by the sparking phenomenon.

Lincolnshire Daily Echo - September 12, 1979

Lincs UFO claim

Three workmen claimed to have seen a silvery grey object shaped like a saucer in broad daylight in Lincolnshire. The object made no sound and hovered about a quarter-of-a-mile away before veering off. Joiner Alan Rick described it as about 25-30 feet across and seven feet deep, hovering about 200 feet up. He reported the sighting to RAF Coningsby, who offered no explanation. Rick stated he had changed his view on UFOs after this experience.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are the widespread nature of UFO sightings across the UK in late 1979, the variety of descriptions provided by witnesses (shapes, colours, behaviours), and the common reaction of skepticism or ridicule faced by those who report these phenomena. Several articles highlight the efforts of amateur investigators and organizations attempting to collect and analyze these reports, suggesting a growing interest in treating UFO sightings with more scientific seriousness. The editorial stance appears to be one of reporting these events factually, often including official responses or potential mundane explanations, while also acknowledging the persistent mystery and the possibility of genuine unexplained phenomena. There's a clear emphasis on witness testimony and the challenges of obtaining credible evidence.