APCIC - Vol 05 No 03 - 1980

Magazine Overview

This issue of UFO NEWS, published by the AERIAL PHENOMENON CLIPPING INFORMATION CENTER in Cleveland, Ohio, is dated March 1980, Volume 5, Number 3. The cover prominently features a stylized illustration of a flying saucer and the bold title 'UFO NEWS'. The publication includes a wide array of reported UFO sightings and related phenomena from January 1980, gathered from various newspapers across the United States and Canada.

Key Articles and Reports

Texas Purple Blobs

Dozens of residents in Texas reported eerie purple blobs that descended from a UFO spacecraft. Witnesses described these objects as similar to plum pudding, with round, solid chunks remaining after the goo dissipated. One witness, Ethel Langston, described them as smooth purple whipped cream-type objects. Officer Jaime Davila collected samples, which were later analyzed and found to be composed of materials not found on Earth, emitting an acidic liquid, attracting water, and containing uranium.

UFO Landing Site in Canada

George Ripley, a hunter from Toronto, Canada, reported discovering a possible UFO landing site near Peterboro. He and a fellow hunter found red pines compressed to about 10 feet from the ground in a perfect circle approximately 400 feet in diameter, with the bark appearing melted. Ripley plans to ask UFO researchers in Toronto to investigate.

Ansted, West Virginia 'Spaceships'

Hundreds of residents in Ansted, West Virginia, reported seeing 'spaceships' hovering over the community since December 5th. Reports described smaller ships emerging from a mother ship, with sightings occurring at tree-top level and described as silent. Police Chief Jim Hall stated that all reports were essentially the same, and local authorities have contacted the Air Force, which denied having aircraft in the area, and astronomers who are baffled.

Other Notable Sightings

• Shiloh, USA: Mary O. Bailey reported seeing multi-colored lights flying slowly in the western sky, with her dogs howling when the lights appeared.
• Menomonie, USA: Three individuals reported an unidentified flying object hovering about 800 feet above the ground, described as about 15-20 feet in diameter, spinning rapidly, and illuminated with various colors.
• Aberdeen, USA: A report mentioned a building that seemed to hang in the sky like a UFO.
• Mt. Vernon, USA: Several people reported a brilliant, bright green light, about 100 feet long, moving at treetop height. A professor of physics and astronomy suggested it might have been a meteor.
• Ithaca, USA: Over a dozen sightings of oblong white objects with flashing red and green lights were reported, with one instance of a UFO landing.
• Virginia Beach, USA: Two families reported seeing mysterious lights above the trees, described as a large disc with various colored lights moving circularly.
• Lake Superior, USA: A brilliant meteor was reported to have fallen into Lake Superior.

Meteorite Explanations

Some reports, particularly those involving bright fireballs, were tentatively explained as meteors. The Wichita Beacon reported a fireball seen across three states, with some suggesting it was a meteorite. Similarly, a report in the Phillipsburg Kans. Review discussed a star-bright sky glow and ground rumble, with some indicating a meteor, while others suggested a UFO.

Editorial and Contact Information

The magazine lists its editorial staff, including Harry R. Cohen as editor and S. Mac Williams as assistant editor. It also features foreign correspondents from Argentina, Australia, Denmark, France, Italy, Turkey, Germany, and Canada. Subscription rates are provided, with a monthly fee for U.S. and Canada and a higher fee for foreign subscriptions including airmail. Advertisements for other UFO-related publications, such as 'Psychic Australian' and 'UFO Update', are also included.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the prevalence and variety of UFO sightings, the detailed accounts from witnesses, and the ongoing efforts to investigate these phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and presenting these reports, often highlighting the unexplained nature of the events and the skepticism or bafflement of authorities and scientists. The publication serves as a clearinghouse for UFO-related news clippings, aiming to inform its readership about the latest developments in the field. The inclusion of various witness testimonies, even those that are difficult to explain, suggests an open-minded approach to the subject matter, while also acknowledging potential natural explanations when evidence supports them.

This issue of Jeannie Griffin's DARLINGTON S.C. NEWS AND PRESS, dated January 24, 1980, focuses heavily on UFO sightings reported across the United States in early January 1980. The cover story, "UFO or No UFO, I DID See Something!" by Ed Dooley, highlights a personal experience and the public's reaction to such claims.

Article: "UFO or No UFO, I DID See Something!" by Ed Dooley

Ed Dooley, a planetarium coordinator at Francis Marion College, recounts his experience of seeing an unidentified flying light. He dismisses common explanations like airplanes or the planet Venus, emphasizing the object's realness and its unusual behavior, including following him. He expresses frustration with skepticism, posing a question about how one would feel if an unidentifiable object behaved similarly. While acknowledging a possible explanation of the star Vega, he concludes that despite criticism, the experience was valuable, leading him to believe that sharing the full story doesn't always lead to belief.

Article: "Bright light in Sunday night sky leads to tales of UFO's" (BURNETT COUNTY SENTINEL, JAN 16-1980)

This article details a sighting by Tom Henson and his daughter near Webster, Wisconsin, on Sunday night, January 13th. They observed a large red ball of fire with a light trail and a green flash. The sighting was corroborated by others, including people leaving the Yellow Lake Lodge and a dispatcher for the Burnett County Sheriff's Department. The Wisconsin State Patrol also received reports. Speculation ranged from a meteor to a UFO. Benson expressed interest in hearing from other witnesses.

Article: "Not all accept fireball explanation" (EAU CLAIRE LEADER TELEGRAM, JAN-14-1980)

This piece by Arnie Hoffman reports on objects described as bolides or fireballs seen across west-central Wisconsin. Cameron Burgess, a farmer near Bloomer, describes seeing a "silo-shaped" object with a white-greenish light. The Menomonie Police Department received a report from Fremont Smith about a tube-shaped object with orange, red, yellow, and blue lights. Sheriff's departments in Barron, Rusk, Taylor, and Lincoln counties also received calls. The article explains that bolides are super meteors that penetrate the atmosphere and often burn out, their brightness varying greatly. It mentions a significant fireball display in 1913.

Article: "blazing 'silo-shaped' object over Bloomer" (CHIPPEWA FALLS HERALD TELEGRAM, JAN-14-1980)

This article from Chippewa Falls reports on sightings of a blazing object over Bloomer, Wisconsin. Cameron Burgess described a "silo-shaped" object, blueish-green, about 100 feet long and 500 feet in the air, moving east at high speed. Chester and Marion Loew saw multi-colored lights described as "longish." The Menomonie Police Department reported a "tube"-like object with various colored lights. Speculation included meteors or meteorites.

Article: "UFOS? Scores say they saw something in the sky" (COURIER-POST, JAN 30 1980)

By Linda Jankowski and Julie Busby, this article details numerous sightings in South Jersey. Police dispatcher Frank McCollian reported seeing five or six amber lights in a "semi-Y formation." Two Moorestown police officers observed three amber lights. The lights were described as flying in an orderly, triangular fashion and disappearing suddenly. Officials at McGuire Air Force base and Fort Dix Army base suggested it might be a prank or related to the TV series "The Martian Chronicles." The Aurora Borealis was also proposed as an explanation, though some scoffed at this. Mount Laurel Sgt. M. Scott Fitz-Patrick stated that these were "bona fide police officers who know what they saw."

Article: "Unidentified Flying Object Spotted in Warsaw" (WARSAW-FAISON NEWS, JAN.31-1980)

Staff writer Jo Carol Jones reports on a UFO sighting in Warsaw, North Carolina. Witnesses, including the reporter's family, described seeing two big white lights, or three or four red and white lights in an object shaped like a popcorn popper. The object was described as dull metal, about 80 feet long, moving slowly and silently. It hovered over Dwight Kirby's mill. Gilbert Johnson thought it might be a low-flying jet. Officials at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base were contacted but could not comment by press time.

Article: "UFOs in Village?" (ELM GROVE WIS. ELM LEAVES, JAN 24-1980)

Elm Grove Police Department received two calls about unidentified flying objects. One resident reported a bright yellowish, orange-white object flashing and sparking. Another reported a large reddish glow. Police searched the areas but found nothing.

Article: "EDITORIAL UFOs are back" (NEW PORT NEWS VA. TIMES HERALD JAN 28 1980)

This editorial notes the resurgence of UFO sightings, recalling a past wave that occupied the nation and led to an official Air Force investigation. It suggests that while the phenomenon might be a diversion, UFO reports tend to produce more reports. The editorial questions whether public interest is as high as before, stating that another "unexplained or insoluble diversion" is not needed.

Article: "Stratfordites watch UFO" (THE BRIDGEPORT POST, JAN 30 1980)

By Joseph Militano, this article describes a UFO seen for four consecutive nights near the home of Hazel and Martin Brzoska in Stratford, Connecticut. They described it as looking like an "atom, just flickering lights." The object wobbled, weaved, and jerked before taking off. Neighbors also reported seeing it. A science teacher suggested it might be Jupiter, but Martin Brzoska disagreed, stating he had never seen Jupiter move like that.

Article: "Return Favor?" (LINCOLN CITY ORE. NEWS GUARD, JAN 31 1980)

This article reports on sightings over Lincoln Beach, Oregon, during the television broadcast of "The Martian Chronicles." At least five people saw a bright light that looked triangular from one angle and round from another, with red, green, white, and blue lights. Ernie Lissy described the objects maneuvering. The lights moved toward the horizon and hovered. Lissy believes in UFOs and mentioned a fisherman seeing a similar object. He noted that his car radio became "staticy" and headlights dimmed when near the object.

Article: "UFO Spotted In The Old Kingston Community" (PRATTVILLE ALA. PROGRESS, JAN 31-1980)

By Norman Ridenhour, this article details a sighting of a large, bright, oval-shaped object in the Old Kingston Community, Alabama. Three families witnessed it. The object was described as a "beautiful star" that moved rapidly, first up, then down, then shot across a pasture. It was also noted that it never made a sound. Witnesses discounted explanations like weather balloons or military operations, with one resident stating, "I don't believe in UFO's, but I know what I saw."

Article: "Colorful UFOs Sighted in Area" (VIRGINIA-PILOT LEDGER STAR, FEB-30-1980)

This brief report from Norfolk, VA, mentions three UFO sightings: a bright red light that appeared to be burning and possibly crashed; a white light; and a green light. Police units were alerted but found no signs of a crash. Airport officials reported no downed aircraft. The National Weather Service suggested Venus might be responsible due to its brightness as an early-rising evening star.

Article: "Poca encounters' Air Guard plane" (HUNTINGTON W.VA. HERALD-DISPATCH, FEB 3 1980)

By James McMiller, this article reports that a "lighted" object seen in Putnam County, West Virginia, was identified by county officials as an Air National Guard transporter plane. Deputy W.R. Mullins received eleven calls about the sighting. Deputy Charles Sisk and Cpl. R. Blankenship saw the object, describing it as a "large spotlight attached to a plane." The control tower at Kanawha County Airport confirmed a transporter plane was in the area for maneuvers.

Article: "UFO is sighted at Grayling" (ANCHORAGE, ALASKA TUNDAR TIMES, JAN 30-1980)

By Mattie Pat Shaw, this article describes a strange object sighted by several residents of Grayling, Alaska. The UFO moved northwest, emitting no sounds. It was described as shaped like a small rocket with brilliant blue, green, and red lights flashing behind. Witnesses initially thought it might be a falling star or a small plane but dispensed with these ideas as the object moved horizontally.

Article: "'UFO' sighting unconfirmed" (SEAFORD, DEL. LEADER, FEB-6-1980)

This brief report details a UFO sighting by a security guard at Sussex County Vocational Technical Center in Delaware. The object was described as a bright white light that turned red and then white again. It reportedly broke apart and went down near a wooded area. A State Police and helicopter search found nothing, attributing the sighting to an "atmospheric phenomenon."

Article: "'UFO' observers only saw a setting Venus" (ELYRIA, OHIO CHRONICLE-TELEGRAM, FEB-11-1980)

This article states that Unidentified Flying Object sightings in the Elyria, Ohio area on January 11 were misidentifications of the planet Venus. The UFO Research Center in Lorain investigated and concluded that Venus, affected by atmospheric disturbances and cloud cover, appeared as a "mini-flap" of sightings. The report notes that Mars's close approach to Earth in February might lead to more sightings. Some cases involved Venus setting and Jupiter rising, causing witnesses to report seeing two objects.

Article: "Unidentified Flying Objects' reported in area; 'Blinking lights were so intense... we stood and gasped'" (CORHELL (WIS) COURIE, JAN-17-1980)

This article reports on sightings near Holcombe, Wisconsin. Mrs. Neal Conrad and three other adults witnessed something like a "welding arc" with green and red lights in a half-circle. The blinking lights were so intense that they "stood and gasped." The object disappeared within a minute. The sighting occurred on the north side of a farm. The Chippewa County Sheriff Department recorded at least two other area sightings within minutes of each other on January 13.

Article: "Silo Shaped Object Sighted Over Bloomer" (BLOOMER (WIS.) ADVANCE, JAN 17 1980)

This article from Bloomer, Wisconsin, details a "silo shaped object" sighted by several people. Cameron Burgess reported a blueish-green object about 100 feet long and 500 feet in the air moving east at high speed. Chester and Marion Loew saw "longish" multi-colored lights. The Menomonie Police Department reported a "tube"-like object with various colored lights. Speculation included meteors or meteorites.

Article: "UFOs in Village?" (ELM GROVE WIS. ELM LEAVES, JAN 24 1980)

This article from Elm Grove, Wisconsin, mentions the Elm Grove Police Department receiving two calls about unidentified flying objects. One resident saw a bright yellowish, orange-white object flashing and sparking. Another reported a large reddish glow. Police searched the area but found nothing.

Article: "How do you feel about UFO's?" (CUMBERLAND (WIS) ADVOCATE, JAN-23-1980)

This article, written by Hoyt, explores the author's personal skepticism about UFOs but acknowledges a willingness to believe. It recounts a story about his 20-year-old son, Tom (TJ), who reported seeing two red lights that reacted strangely, causing his car radio to become staticy, headlights to dim, and the engine to sputter. Tom then saw a "huge yellow ball, round like a basketball, but almost as big as a house" with orange flames. The car stalled upon arrival home, but ran smoothly later. Tom called the Sheriff's office but no similar reports were found.

Article: "Caller reports seeing UFO" (CEDARBURG (WIS) NEW GRAPHIC PILOT, 1-10-80)

A caller reported an unidentified flying object hovering over Lasata Nursing Home in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, with flashing lights. Police checked the area but found no trace of any flying objects or lights.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this collection of articles is the widespread reporting of unidentified flying objects and aerial phenomena in early 1980. The articles present witness accounts, often from credible sources like police officers, and explore various potential explanations, from mundane (Venus, meteors, aircraft) to the extraordinary (UFOs). There is a clear tension between the factual reporting of sightings and the skepticism or attempts at rationalization from authorities and some segments of the public. The editorial stance, particularly in the "UFOs are back" piece, suggests a weariness with the phenomenon, viewing it as a potential diversion, while still acknowledging its persistent presence. The collection highlights the public's fascination with the unknown and the challenges in definitively explaining these sightings.

This document is a collection of newspaper clippings from late 1979 and early 1980, primarily focusing on UFO sightings and related phenomena reported across various locations in the USA and the UK. The clippings highlight public interest in UFOs, witness testimonies, and the often inconclusive or skeptical responses from authorities and scientific experts.

Article Summaries

Tuscaloosa Ala. Graphic (January 31, 1980) - "UFO: Seeing is believing?" by Tommy Stevenson

This article details the experience of John Earl, who reported seeing "weird lights" and hearing a "whooshing noise" while driving down River Road. The lights, described as flying over the Warrior River, began to hover over his car. Earl headed to the University campus, where he saw the lights again, hovering over the Ferguson Center. He managed to take photographs of the object. Later, the lights reappeared over downtown Tuscaloosa, and Earl took more pictures. He admits he is not ready to claim it was a flying saucer, suggesting possibilities like swamp gas, helicopters, or low-level clouds, but finds the fact that the lights followed him significant. The Graphic has launched an investigation.

Des Moines Tribune (December 21, 1979) - "UFO sighting reported" by Tom Alex

Four witnesses, Tysa and Daria Goodrich, reported seeing a "huge" unidentified flying object near I-235 in Des Moines, Iowa. The object was described as diamond-shaped with four white lights, having no clear definition on its flat bottom, and sometimes moving or hovering. An airport spokesman stated there was nothing to indicate anything in the area. Tysa Goodrich contacted KIOA radio and the police. A police spokesman confirmed a squad car was sent but saw nothing. The object reportedly made a "low rumbling sound." The witnesses emphasized it was too large for a plane and not a helicopter.

Millsboro, Del. Delmarva News (February 6, 1979) - "UFO sighted near VoTech"

State police investigated a reported UFO sighting near Georgetown, Delaware. Dale Hare, a security guard, reported seeing a UFO land about a quarter-mile behind the Sussex County Vocational Technical Center. Police searched the area by helicopter. Hare described the object as fixed white, turning to red, with no blinking lights or sound. He reported seeing a part break off before the remainder landed. The search team found nothing, and investigators attributed the sighting to an "atmospheric phenomenon" due to the clear sky.

Cumberland (Wis) Advocate (January 30, 1980) - "Island city Living" by Hoyt

This article follows up on a previous story about Tom's unusual experience, confirming that other readers have reported similar sightings. Dorie Zahs reported a bright light over a lake. The Harold Scharmers, Fred Millers, and Herb Schweitzers saw red lights moving slowly. Bob Nesvold and Joyce, with Bob and Dorothy Thorp, saw a large, bright object falling straight down. Betty Riley also saw red lights. Craig Greener reported seeing red lights moving northerly and recalled spotting a shiny, silver, disc-shaped object a year prior. The article references a metropolitan newspaper report about a mysterious fireball over Kansas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska, with an astronomer suggesting these could be bolides (meteors).

Eau Claire Leader-Telegram (January 23, 1980) - "UFO reported in Menomonie"

Three people in Menomonie, Wisconsin, reported seeing an unidentified flying object hovering about 800 feet above the ground. David Cobb described the object as 15 to 20 feet in diameter, spinning at high speed, and illuminated with orange, purple, and greenish colors. It made no noise. Cobb thought it landed nearby and went to investigate but saw nothing more. Other UFO sightings reported that week were believed to be meteorites.

Eau Claire Leader-Telegram (January 19, 1980) - "Fireballs cause strange sights in skies across the Midwest" by Arnie Hoffman

This article reports on multiple sightings of strange lights and objects across the Midwest. A mysterious fireball streaked across the sky over Kansas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska, breaking apart. Similar sightings occurred in Wisconsin, with reports of tube-like objects with blue-greenish lights, multi-colored lights from long objects, and strange objects with flashing lights. An astronomy professor at UW-Eau Claire suggested these were bolides (meteors) that disintegrate in the atmosphere, causing blue-green colors and vapor trails. Meteorite activity is linked to Earth's orbit near comet tails.

Norshfield News Herald (February 4, 1980) - "UFO sightings reported"

Three sightings of unidentified flying objects were reported in Lincoln County, Wisconsin. Reports included a long-narrow, reddish-orange object, a circular object with red and blue lights, and a bright object changing colors. Law enforcement officers checked the areas but reported seeing only the moon and stars.

Milwaukee Wisc. Journal (January 17, 1980) - "Mysterious fireball probably was meteor"

This Associated Press report details a mysterious fireball streaking across the sky over Kansas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska, which broke apart. While no cause was given, a meteor was considered the most probable explanation.

Wigan Evening Post (January 4, 1980) - "Thank the stars, it's missed!"

This article discusses sightings of a strange light in the skies over Wigan, England, which experts suggest is a meteor called Quadrantids. Jodrell Bank confirmed the meteor shower. However, Steve Balon of the Direct Investigation Group into Aerial Phenomena expressed skepticism, noting that Jodrell Bank has been wrong before and that other UFO sightings have later been proven to be meteors. The article also mentions a meteorite weighing 156 grams found in Appley Bridge in 1914 and references large-scale meteorite events in France and Siberia.

Liverpool Echo (January 16, 1980) - "A flying cover-up job?"

This letter to the editor suggests government cover-ups regarding UFOs. It directs readers interested in learning more to Gary Raymer, chairman of the British UFO Investigation Group, and the British UFO Society.

Aldershot News Hants (January 11, 1980) - "More claims about UFOs"

Four mysterious red UFOs were spotted hovering over Aldershot and Camberley, England. Mr. Robert Godden reported seeing three bright red lights in a line moving slowly without sound. Nick Marlow also reported seeing a UFO on two evenings. The article notes that governments often refuse to divulge information on UFO sightings.

Eastern Evening News, Norwich (January 10, 1980) - "UNEXPLAINED 'multi-coloured objects' streak across the sky..."

This article reports on unexplained "multi-coloured objects" streaking across the sky above Al-Jahra, Saudi Arabia, and strange blobs flashing on radar screens at Bodo, Norway. In Britain, a "strange kite-like object with four amber lights" was reported in Derby. The Aetherius Society notes a significant increase in UFO sightings. A Spanish Caravelle was forced to make an emergency landing in Valencia due to two piercing red lights. The Madrid radar center confirmed the objects, and the pilot described them as "very strong red lights moving very fast." The Spanish Government remained reticent. Similar sightings of circular objects with intense blue light flashes were reported in Madrid.

Western Morning News (January 19, 1980) - "UFO probe"

Experts are investigating reports of bright lights hovering and moving in the sky over Roadwater, near Minehead, England. Unusual sightings have been reported in the area previously but not accounted for.

Dublin Sunday Independent (February 3, 1980) - "Lord Clancarty and Margaret Thatcher's navel! 'I'M NO NUT,' SAYS IRISH PEER WHO BELIEVES IN UFO..."

This article features Lord Clancarty, an Irish peer who believes Margaret Thatcher and others might be subjects for medical examination by spacemen. He claims governments have covered up UFO sightings and that people have been taken aboard spacecraft for examination. His UFO Study Group in the House of Lords has over 20 members, including former Admiral Lord Hill Norton. Lord Clancarty has written seven books on the subject and formed Contacts International to record sightings. He believes more people are reporting strange events and taking an interest in the subject.

Slough Observer (January 25, 1980) - "That 'UFO'"

Sightings of an unidentified flying object over Black Park, England, were identified by the Civil Aviation Authority as a helicopter used to calibrate radar equipment at Heathrow Airport.

Lincolnshire Free Press (January 8, 1980) - "First UFO of year?"

A bright cone-shaped object was seen in Spalding, England, on New Year's Day. Mrs. Beatrice Phillips described it as cone-shaped with a green reflection, appearing to be going to hit the ground. Spalding police received no reports of the incident.

Evening Courier (December 31, 1979) - "Mystery light over rooftops"

Mr. Peter Bryan reported seeing a bright light over Halifax, England, which he initially thought was an airplane's tail light but found it too large. Mr. Brian Norcliffe confirmed the light was stationary above rooftops and not a star. It was last seen heading towards Norland. The secretary of the Yorkshire branch of the British UFO Research Association stated that reports of single bright lights are common and usually have a logical explanation, possibly a helicopter or a bright planet.

Surrey Herald (January 10, 1980) - "Scientist sees bright light UFO"

A UFO sighting at Ottershaw, England, was confirmed by a scientist and his family. Mrs. Linda Dillon described the object as bathed in a bright yellow-orange glow with a rotating ray, hovering over her. Mr. Richard Pywell, a physicist, also observed a bright yellowy-orange glow with a rotating ray, estimating its speed at 50 mph. The association BUFORA is investigating.

Worcester Evening News (January 4, 1980) - "We saw UFO-couple"

A 12-year-old boy's account of a flying saucer sighting over Worcester was confirmed by a couple who also saw a similar "Saturn-shaped object with flashing lights."

Daily Telegraph (January 10, 1980) - "UFO FOLLOWED ITALIAN JET"

The Italian Defence Ministry declassified a report of an F104 jet being followed by an unidentified flying object in February 1977. The object glowed brighter than the moon and stars and maintained a distance of 800-900 yards. The UFO disappeared when the pilot attempted to intercept it.

The Journal (January 3, 1980) - "Mystery object hovered over Great Orme"

Mrs. Pat Hill and her family reported seeing an enormous, brightly lit object hovering above the Great Orme in Wales. The object changed colors, then streaked off across the sea. Mrs. Hill stated that it was enormous and questioned if anyone else saw it.

The Journal (January 2, 1980) - "AUDREY SPOTS A UFO"

Audrey Whitehead reported seeing a long object of different colors in Meliden. Mrs. Tegwedd Hastilow confirmed seeing a similar object, described as brilliant, similar to an electric light bulb, with varying colors and a white tail.

The Journal (January 10, 1980) - "Meliden sighting"

Mr. Peter Haynes reported seeing a round, stationary object above Meliden that began to change color. Several other local people also reported the sighting.

St. Helens Newspaper (January 2, 1980) - "Encounter with a UFO"

Following a double UFO sighting in St. Helens, another object was seen near Garswood. Reporter Brian Barnes spotted a "black blob" hovering over fields, described as stationary and football-like. The object vanished after 30 seconds.

Ashton Under Lyne Reporter (January 18, 1980) - "Info on UFOs is required"

This section from the British UFO Society seeks information from readers about UFO sightings, stating that many sightings defy rational explanation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these clippings are the persistent reports of unexplained aerial phenomena, the variety of descriptions provided by witnesses, and the common governmental reticence or skepticism in addressing these sightings. Many articles highlight the contrast between witness accounts and official explanations, which often lean towards meteors, atmospheric phenomena, or misidentification of conventional aircraft. There's a clear public fascination with UFOs, evidenced by the numerous reports and the existence of dedicated investigation groups like the British UFO Society and Contacts International. The editorial stance, as reflected in the selection of these articles, appears to be one of reporting on these phenomena, acknowledging the public's interest, and presenting both witness testimonies and the official or scientific counterpoints, often leaving the reader to draw their own conclusions.

This issue of the Worthing Gazette West Sussex, dated January 9, 1980, features a prominent cover story titled "On a star trek to Earth for the holiday?" which details several UFO sightings reported in the Worthing area during the Christmas period. The publication also includes reports from other regional newspapers across the UK, highlighting a widespread increase in UFO activity in late 1979 and early 1980.

Local Sightings in Worthing

The main article focuses on reports from Worthing residents. Councillor Frank Hammond of Selden Ward described seeing a group of seven lights in a box formation in the southern sky, which was pulsating slightly as it travelled in a straight line. He was certain it was not an aircraft. His neighbours also witnessed the phenomenon. John Amner of Durrington reported seeing two very bright lights in the southwestern sky, brighter than stars, on December 30th, and again a few days later. He also stated it was not an aircraft, likening it to the early Sputniks. However, John Mason of Slindon, a member of the Southdown Astronomical Society, offered a more grounded explanation, suggesting that planes high up can catch sunlight at odd angles, and that Venus, when low, can scintillate and appear to break into separate points of light.

National UFO Activity

Beyond Worthing, the issue compiles reports from various other publications, indicating a broader trend of UFO sightings across the UK:

• Wythall: The Redditch Indicator reported on January 11, 1980, that a large audience attended Wythall Forum to hear university lecturer Mr. John Way discuss UFOs. He noted an increasing awareness of the subject, mentioning debates in the House of Lords and discussions at the United Nations. While acknowledging that many sightings have valid explanations, he stated that some remain unsolved and should be taken seriously. A detailed study by the University of Colorado was mentioned, which was later exposed as having been treated with bias for national defense reasons.

• Worthing Area (Further Sightings): The Worthing Gazette reported on January 16, 1980, about further sightings in the Worthing area. David Stringer and Paul Glover of the British Phenomena Research Society saw a light hovering over the town that suddenly vanished. Later, Lawrence Stringer reported seeing a mass of dazzling lights that shot off at great speed towards the moon. Mr. Stringer is asking for other witnesses to contact him.

• Wooburn Green: The Maidenhead Advertiser Berks reported on January 18, 1980, about a school-teacher, Miss Cheryl Hutton, who saw a brightly lit object hovering over her car. This incident occurred in the same area as six previous alleged sightings in 1977. The object was described as being the size of a car with two very bright lights, a dark body, a row of red lights around the back, and a white thing hanging from it. Despite the clear sighting, Miss Hutton considered it might be a meteorological phenomenon. The Meteorological Office at Bracknell stated it was not a meteorological balloon or natural weather phenomenon, while Heathrow Airport suggested it sounded like an aircraft coming in to land.

• Wexham: The Maidenhead Advertiser Berks also reported on January 18, 1980, that Mrs. Jennie Ratcliffe saw an object with two bright lights like searchlights and a squiggly thing like a worm. She noted it was not an aircraft, given her proximity to Heathrow Airport's flight path.

• Ipswich: The East Anglian Daily Times reported on January 22, 1980, on "More UFO sightings." A letter from W. M. Martindale mentioned a sighting in 1968 of an extremely bright light that hovered for two hours. He also noted activity in Barking, including a near-landing and an object the size of a pylon. He also mentioned unusual radar targets in his area.

• Thrupp: The Gloucester Citizen reported on January 23, 1980, that Eastcombe Manor School was abuzz with stories after boys saw a "strange ball of white light" and one believed a spaceship landed in a field. Police investigated but found no sign of a spaceship. Another report mentioned a bright light hovering in the sky over Stonehouse.

• Southampton Area: The Southern Evening Echo reported on January 21, 1980, that a private survey was being conducted on alleged UFO sightings in the Hampshire area, seeking information on a specific sighting on January 16.

• Marseille/Cergy-Pontoise: Le Parisien reported on February 6, 1980, about Franck Fontaine, who claimed to have been "abducted" by extraterrestrials. Hypnotic regression sessions in Marseille, organized by the Institut Mondial des Sciences Avancées (IMSA), led the institute to declare they were convinced of the "sincerity of the youngsters and of the objective reality of their experience." The report also mentioned threats and intimidations experienced by the young men.

• Nantes Area: L'Aurore reported on January 23, 1980, about a "bicolore UFO" (two-colored) observed near Nantes. A dark object, 5-6 meters in diameter, stopped above a water tower, lit up with red and orange glows, and then disappeared at high speed.

• Llanelli Area: The South Wales Evening Post reported on January 10, 1980, that a West Wales expert predicted a spate of UFO sightings. A woman and her daughter reported seeing a spacecraft as big as two large houses near Llanelli. Mr. Randall Jones Pugh, a ufologist, described it as one of the strangest and most unpleasant encounters he had investigated, suggesting it might be a monitoring process of the coastline.

• Aldershot and Camberley: The Camberley News Surrey reported on January 11, 1980, about four mysterious red UFOs spotted hovering over Aldershot and Camberley. One witness described three bright red lights in a line moving slowly without sound.

• Spalding: The Spalding Guardian reported on January 18, 1980, that Mrs. Jenny Unwin believed a UFO sighting over her home may have caused her electricity supply to fail. An 18-year-old, Marco Poli, also witnessed a strange flying object, described as diamond-shaped with a red rotating light. Graham Emms also saw two white lights over a field, which developed into a diamond-shaped object with lights underneath.

• Hitchin: The Hitchin Gazette reported on January 10, 1980, that following a previous report, several readers had reported similar sightings. Mrs. Margaret Major saw a brilliant white light that seemed to be changing color. David Kowie recalled a similar bright blue light.

• Worcester: The Worcester Evening News reported on January 21, 1980, that the UFO spotting group Skyscan would investigate a 12-year-old boy's sighting of a "Saturn shaped object" with flashing lights.

• Severn Bridge: The Gloucester Citizen reported on January 19, 1980, that police received reports of strange objects hovering over the Severn Bridge, described as three round objects in a triangular formation and a large cylindrical object.

• North Devon: The Western Morning News Plymouth reported on January 21, 1980, that UFO activity in North Devon had decreased, but specialists were still monitoring the sky. Mr. John Casey noted that most reports indicated satellite sightings, but some were interesting and unexplained.

• Cambridge Area: The Cambridge News reported on January 24, 1980, about a second wave of UFOs over the Harston area. While some activity was attributed to conventional aircraft, locals reported massive UFOs hovering silently.

• Nuneaton: The Nuneaton Evening Tribune reported on January 25, 1980, that the Hinckley Aerial Phenomenon Investigations group was seeking information about a triangular-shaped object with two bright red lights seen over Wykin Village.

• Russian Rocket Theory: The Daily Record Glasgow reported on January 17, 1980, that scientists were considering the theory that a UFO seen near Ladybank, Fife, might have been a Russian rocket breaking up upon re-entering Earth's atmosphere. However, searches by the RAF failed to find any evidence.

Books and Publications

Advertisements and mentions of books related to UFOs appear, including "My Space Odyssey in UFOs" by Oscar Magocsi and "UFOs, a British viewpoint" by Jenny Randles and Peter Warrington. The British UFO Society is also seeking reports from readers interested in UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout these reports is the persistent occurrence of unexplained aerial phenomena. While some publications and individuals attempt to provide rational explanations such as aircraft, weather events, or even space debris, a significant portion of the reports highlight sightings that defy easy categorization. The articles generally present the eyewitness accounts without overt skepticism, often quoting the witnesses directly and noting the involvement of UFO research groups. The overall stance appears to be one of documenting these events and encouraging further investigation and reporting, acknowledging that some phenomena remain a mystery.