BUFORA Journal - Volume 05 No 06 - March April 1977

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Vol 5 No 6
Date: March/April 1977
Publisher: British UFO Research Association

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL, published by the British UFO Research Association, presents a collection of articles, reports, and news items related to UFO phenomena. The cover features an illustration related to the 'Winchester Encounter' and highlights the 'Vange Delta' sighting. The journal aims to uncover the truth behind UFO manifestations without holding corporate views.

Editorial: Up, down, around or ....?

In his editorial, Norman Oliver reflects on the diversity of UFO sighting reports and the tendency for members to develop their own theories, ranging from the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) to Hollow Earth theories and psychic phenomena. He suggests that while the ETH should not be dismissed, perhaps too much effort is being expended in that direction. Oliver notes the wide variety of claimed origins for UFO occupants, including beings from planets in our solar system, distant star systems, and even places that do not exist. He points out the paradox that reports from more unlikely origins sometimes have greater independent confirmation. The editorial concludes by posing questions about whether the right questions are being asked regarding UFO phenomena.

Vange Delta

This article investigates a sighting by Mr. and Mrs. Jennings and their two children in Vange, Essex, on December 12, 1976. While returning home, they observed several low, still lights in the sky. As they got closer, they saw a dark, delta-shaped object directly above them. The object had three large red lights on the left side, a large blue light on the right, and three white lights at the back, all flashing irregularly. An orange-red haze surrounded the object. It was described as being about three houses high and made no sound. The object moved slowly and gracefully to the north-west and disappeared over nearby houses. The total duration of the sighting was about seven or eight minutes. The investigator was impressed by the witnesses' sincerity and noted that Southend airport confirmed no aircraft were in the area at the time of the sighting (approximately 17:15).

Research & Investigations Section

This section details Bufora's systematic approach to cataloguing and processing UFO reports. When an investigator submits a report, it undergoes classification (Class 1-4). Class 1 and 2 reports, deemed worthy of further study, are reviewed by advisers and consultants. The research department then extracts key unidentified cases. The department's responsibilities include adding results to report summaries for the Journal, potentially writing up cases for international circulation, sending coded lists to Ufocat (a computer file operated by the Center for UFO Studies in the USA), and entering reports onto Bufora's punch card analysis system. The article explains the advantages of using punch cards for data storage and retrieval, which is considered the next best thing to a computer for organizations like Bufora. It details how data can be extracted by punching through specific holes representing different characteristics, allowing for rapid searches, such as finding all green objects reported in a specific county on a particular day. Bufora is also working on publishing catalogues, including a 'Vehicle Interference Catalogue' and a regional catalogue for Northern England.

Analysis of UFO photographs and films

Ken Phillips of the NIC provides guidance on the correct procedure for handling photographic and film evidence of UFOs. He advises members and investigators to submit original negatives/films to the Photographic Analysis & Investigations Dept. (PAID) or the NIC to avoid damage and ensure proper analysis. A flowchart illustrates the process, emphasizing the need to contact PAID or NIC promptly. The article also touches upon the increasing issue of 'metricitis,' where measurements are given in various units, and outlines the editor's approach to presenting distances and measurements from different sources.

Points from the Press

This section compiles recent news items about UFO sightings and related research from various publications:

• The Birmingham Conference, attended by over 140 delegates, was mentioned in the Birmingham Evening Mail, highlighting the growing interest and respectability of UFO study.
• A Swedish newspaper reported three boys seeing a blinding orange light on a beach that disappeared, reappeared, and shot skyward, leaving a circle of burnt grass.
• A similar light was seen in northern Sweden by a motorist and her daughter.
• In Finland, a young man was burned by a ray of light from a landed ball of light.
• The Brisbane Courier-Mail reported an incident where fighter bombers trailing jet fuel caused panic, with the public mistaking the lights for flying saucers.
• The Yorkshire Evening Post mentioned Trevor Whitaker, secretary of the Yorkshire Branch of Bufora, and the collaboration of research groups in the Huddersfield area.
• The Brisbane Courier-Mail reported an appeal to Queenslanders not to fire at UFOs after a motorist emptied his gun at one.
• A conference in South Australia was planned due to a rise in UFO reports.
• The American paper National Enquirer reported that a team of French scientists, including a Concorde designer, claimed to have solved the mystery of UFO propulsion after seven years of research, testing a model UFO and building a working engine.
• The County Times & Express & Gazette reported a lorry driver's encounter with a cigar-shaped object belching flames near the Elan Valley.
• The West Lancashire Evening Gazette featured Bryan Hartley, Bufora's Overseas Liaison Officer, and his involvement in UFO research groups.
• Blick magazine reported an incident where UFOs allegedly caused two Phantom fighters to be 'out of action,' with the Persian Ministry of Defence admitting the event.
• The Guardian, Daily Telegraph, and Bristol Evening Post reported on 'bumps in the night' in the South West of England, with conflicting explanations from Bristol University researchers regarding aircraft noise, possibly from Concorde.

A REPETITION OF HISTORY?

This short piece draws parallels between Hermann Oberth's early theoretical work on rocket ascent published in 1923 and 1925, which led to the formation of a 'Society for Space Travel,' and Robert Morison's 1976 book 'The Vortex Message,' which explores vortex levitation. Both authors are described as being more writers than engineers, foreseeing others putting their ideas into practice.

Uforum

This section contains a letter from a reader commenting on Peter Bottomley's article 'Controversy' in a previous issue. The writer defends Bufora investigators, suggesting that if reports were poorly compiled, the article should have been published. They argue that the solution lies in better selection and testing of investigators, proposing interviews, basic tests for literacy and attitude, and trial periods. The writer shares their own experience as a 'self-styled' investigator for Ufosis and later for Apro, emphasizing the importance of a methodical approach and detailed checking sheets to ensure comprehensive reports. They also suggest grading investigators based on capabilities and specialist knowledge.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include detailed accounts of specific UFO sightings (Vange Delta, Winchester Encounter), the methodology and organization of UFO research (Bufora's data systems, punch cards, classification), the analysis of evidence (photographs, films), and the dissemination of UFO news through press clippings. The editorial stance, as expressed by Norman Oliver, is one of open inquiry, acknowledging the diversity of theories but also questioning whether the focus of research is always on the most productive direction. The journal emphasizes the importance of rigorous investigation and accurate reporting, while also highlighting the growing public and scientific interest in UFO phenomena.

This issue of the magazine focuses on "The Winchester Encounters," detailing two significant UFO sightings and potential alien encounters that occurred in Winchester, UK, in late 1976. The content includes witness testimonies, investigator analysis, and discussions on related UFO phenomena.

Letters to the Editor

Gary Lanham, Manitoba, Canada Gary Lanham suggests that a 'tier-system' for investigators could help match capabilities to the specific needs of a case, citing his own lack of chemistry knowledge as a potential drawback in sample analysis. He also notes the success of a policy where male investigators interviewed male witnesses and female investigators interviewed female witnesses. He adds a postscript suggesting that even experienced investigators could learn from manuals like the MUFON USA Manual and that failure in training should not necessarily bar someone from investigating.

Simon Battman, Basingstoke Simon Battman comments on Gary Lanham's letter, expressing intrigue about the success of the gender-based interview policy and questioning if the reverse approach was ever tried. He also raises an interesting point about UFOs apparently secreting a white material that disappears on contact with the ground, speculating if this could be a byproduct of a propulsion system that overcomes pollution. He notes this would challenge the law of conservation of matter and invites discussion.

The Winchester Encounters

Introduction by Lionel Beer Lionel Beer, the editor, introduces the article by mentioning Bernard Delair's prediction of a UFO wave starting around December 1976 or January 1977. The Winchester encounter on November 14th, 1976, is presented as potentially being the start of this predicted wave, with mentions of other close encounters and activity in various parts of Europe and beyond.

Encounter One: 14 November 1976

#### Witnesses and Initial Account

The primary witnesses were Ted Pratt, around 60, and Joyce Bowles, about 42. They were visiting the Bowles family on the evening of the encounter. Mrs Bowles, a mother of four, drove her Mini Clubman estate. The encounter occurred as she drove back from collecting her son, driving east over a concrete bridge and then onto the B3404 road.

#### The Sighting

Mrs Bowles reported seeing "two lights," the first higher than the second, which disappeared behind scrub. She described them as orange but redder than sodium lights. Mr Pratt confirmed seeing the lights.

#### The Car Incident

As Mrs Bowles turned onto the lane for Chilcomb, the Mini "shuddered and rattled," and the steering appeared to lock. The car left the road, coming to rest on the grass verge. Mr Pratt described this as more dramatic, reaching over to switch off the ignition.

#### The Object and Figure

They then saw a cigar-shaped object, partially illuminated, estimated to be 5 to 6 yards in front of their car. The object was described as orange-red, about 40 feet long, flying at about 800 feet. Mrs Bowles estimated the object to be about 12 feet long and 5 feet high, with three bow-shaped windows. Behind the windows, three figures were seen sitting in a row. A figure, referred to as 'the MAN,' emerged from the object and approached the car. The MAN was described as about 6 foot to 6 foot 5" tall, with piercing pink eyes, no discernible pupils or irises, and wearing a shimmering, silver, boiler suit-like outfit.

#### Interaction and Aftermath

The MAN bent down to look into the driver's window. As he did so, the engine sprang to life and the headlights shone intensely. Mrs Bowles was frightened, while Mr Pratt remained calm despite suffering from angina. The MAN's clothing shimmered and had a seam down the left side. Mrs Bowles noted silvery specks in his hair. The object and its occupants then disappeared. The car initially refused to move, feeling like hitting a barrier, but started on the second attempt. Mrs Bowles drove to collect her son and returned home. The incident was reported on BBC Southern Television and national television.

#### Investigator Analysis

Investigator Lionel Beer notes that Mrs Bowles had previously been associated with poltergeist activity and was known as a 'psychic healer' and 'natural medium.' He also mentions that Winchester has local myths and legends, and the encounter site lay on a significant ley line. He acknowledges minor variations in witness accounts but concludes that the witnesses had a genuine and alarming experience, and the probability of a UFO encounter remains open.

Encounter Two: 30 December 1976

#### The Setup

On December 30th, Mrs Bowles and Mr Pratt went to fill up the Mini's petrol tank. They drove east on the B3404, stopping at a petrol station. On their return journey, about one mile from Quarry Road, they experienced another event.

#### The Second Encounter

Mrs Bowles reported seeing a "big glow in the sky again." Later, she spotted a light going in and out of the clouds. The car began to rock, and they found themselves standing outside the car, in what they perceived as a room within a 'space-craft.' Three men were present, one of whom was recognized from the first encounter. This 'spaceman' had a belt with a jewel and spoke in a foreign language, then in broken English, stating they were friendly and not coming to invade. The MAN asked Mr Pratt to take seven steps up to the 'room.'

#### Details of the 'Spacemen' and Craft

The 'spacemen' wore silver boiler suits, silver boots, and gauntlets. Their hair was long and sandy, and their eyes glittered. They mentioned something about picking Joyce and putting a hand on the car. The room or spacecraft was described as a large bottle-like structure, with bands of red, black, and yellow, and was estimated to be at least 20 feet long.

#### Physical and Psychological Effects

Mrs Bowles reported her right side becoming blotchy, her neck and shoulder burning, and feeling sick. She also felt an urge to sleep. Mr Pratt, however, felt mildly exhilarated and not adversely affected physically. Mrs Bowles also noted that her eternity ring had caused soreness and that a watch had gone haywire.

#### Investigator's Conclusion

Investigator G.G. Doel notes that Mrs Bowles' account was put together from her relation of the occurrence, as Mr Pratt had not been interviewed yet. He mentions the possibility of a shadowy figure and a silver gauntlet seen at Mrs Bowles' home prior to the encounters.

Traces Report by Steve Gamble

Steve Gamble, Bufora's Traces Co-ordinator, reports that no landing traces were found at the site described by Mrs Bowles. Initial reports of radioactivity were due to instrument malfunction. Soil measurements indicated it was slightly more acid than normal, attributed to decaying leaves. Other tests did not reveal anything out of the ordinary. Gamble also mentions ongoing projects for the revision of the Traces section of the Bufora Handbook and an intensive course on investigation of Traces cases.

Have you read...?

Norman Oliver highlights books by W. Raymond Drake, noting that his manuscripts were published after Von Daniken's gained popularity. Drake is well-known in Europe and has lectured at various conferences. He has also spoken at Kensington meetings, including one at UMIST organized by the Manchester UFO Research Association (MUFORA).

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the detailed investigation of UFO sightings and potential alien encounters, with a focus on witness testimony, physical evidence (or lack thereof), and the broader context of UFO waves and related phenomena. The magazine appears to maintain an open but analytical stance, presenting accounts and investigator findings while acknowledging the subjective nature of some evidence and the need for impartial investigation. The editorial stance seems to be one of serious inquiry into the UFO phenomenon, encouraging discussion and further research.

This issue of Flying Saucer Review, volume 23, issue 23, published in 1977, is primarily focused on UFO sightings and related literature. It includes a comprehensive list of published works by Ray Palmer concerning 'Gods and Spacemen' and details numerous UFO sighting reports from 1975 and 1976 across the UK and Ireland.

Ray Palmer's Published Works

The issue provides a detailed bibliography of Ray Palmer's books, starting with 'Gods or Spacemen?' in 1964, and continuing through to 'Messengers from the Stars' in 1977. Several of these works were also published internationally by various foreign publishers, including those in Brazil, France, Italy, and Japan.

Lecture Summary and Clarification

A significant portion of the content is dedicated to a lecture summary and a subsequent clarification by Jenny Randles regarding a lecture by Tim Good. Randles wishes to correct any misrepresentation that may have emerged from her review of Good's lecture in the Jan/Feb 1977 Journal. She emphasizes that many assertions credited to Tim were in fact quotations he was citing as examples, and these ideas were not necessarily accepted by him. Specifically, she clarifies that when Tim Good referred to the phenomenon as a 'modern day up-date of something which has manifested throughout history,' he was illustrating a modern trend of thought, not agreeing with it. Furthermore, she notes that Tim Good did not claim that Adamski had been hoaxed or that President Nixon had been contacted; he was quoting others. Randles concludes by quoting Tim Good, who stated that even if some UFOs emanate from another spacetime continuum, it does not preclude the probability that bona-fide extraterrestrials possess the technological and mental resources to make current scientific discoveries appear primitive.

Sighting Summaries

The magazine presents a detailed table of 'Sighting Summaries' from various locations in the UK and France, spanning dates from October 1975 to November 1976. Each entry includes a code number, date, time, place, a brief report of the sighting, the classification of the sighting, and the investigator or credit. The reported objects vary widely, including 'Manoeuvering Lits', 'Orange Lits', 'Oval red object', 'Solid white object', '3 gold objects', 'Discoid object', 'Elongated object-flashing lights', 'Starlike objects', 'Round object', 'Five Lits', '3 manoeuvering lits', 'White lits', 'Bright white lits', 'Round red object', 'Orange object', 'Red flare', 'Sparkling pink object', 'Pinky red oval object', 'Large red-light', 'Spherical red object', 'Pulsating light', 'Bright round oscillating silver object', 'Two dazzling lits', 'Inverted cone', and 'Metallic rectangular object'. Some sightings are noted to have been investigated by specific entities like the Ministry of Defence or local UFO study groups.

Personal Column and Publications

This section features advertisements and information for UFO enthusiasts. It includes an advertisement for the 'SKYWATCH UFO DETECTOR', a magnetic needle type detector. It also announces 'The Kent UFO News Bulletin', a new publication covering UFO sightings in Kent, and provides subscription details. Additionally, there is information about 'CASSETTE TAPES' related to UFOs and astronomy, such as 'UFOs & YOU', 'UFOs OVER ENGLAND', 'SKY EXPLORING-AROUND POLARIS', and 'OUR SOLAR SYSTEM', available from Norman Oliver.

Organizations and Affiliations

The Bristol-based British Flying Saucer Bureau is announced as affiliated with the North Bristol Institute of Adult Education, with monthly meetings to be held at Monks Park School. Future lectures are mentioned, including 'Spacemen and Prehistoric Engineering?' and 'The UFO Scene in Brazil'.

Books and Leaflets

A list of 'Books and Leaflets' available from Arnold West at Bufora Publications is provided, including titles like 'Guide to the UFO Phenomenon', 'The Use of Analytical Instruments in the Search for Extra-terrestrial Spacecraft', 'Investigation Procedures', and 'An Engineer's Look at UFO's'. The prices for members and non-members are listed, with all publications available post-free.

UFO Investigation Handbook

Information is given about 'UFO INVESTIGATION-A HANDBOOK FOR UFO INVESTIGATORS', a comprehensive 140-page reference work available in loose-leaf format. Details on pricing for members and non-members, as well as overseas orders, are provided, with orders to be sent to Miss Jenny Randles.

STOP PRESS and BUFORA

A 'STOP PRESS' section highlights recent 'mini-flaps' occurring across the country, with an unusual number of close sightings or landings reported by schoolchildren, which have been taken seriously by their headmasters. The issue indicates that at least two of these cases, one in Pembrokeshire and another in Anglesey, are hoped to be featured in the next issue. The article also mentions correspondence with the headmaster of Rhosybol Primary School. The final section details 'THE BRITISH UFO RESEARCH ASSOCIATION' (Bufora Limited), its founding in 1964, registered details, aims, and membership subscription information. It states that membership is open to all who support the aims of the Association and whose application is approved by the Executive Council.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, the literature and research surrounding UFOs, and the personal experiences of witnesses and investigators. The editorial stance, as clarified by Jenny Randles, is one of careful consideration and factual reporting, distinguishing between presenting information and endorsing specific theories. The magazine actively promotes UFO research, publications, and organizations, aiming to provide a platform for evidence dissemination and investigation.