BUFORA Journal - Volume 07 No 03 - SepOct1978

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Vol 7 No 3
Date: September/October 1978
Publisher: British UFO Research Association

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL delves into the intriguing phenomenon of ball lightning through its dedicated project, alongside critical reviews of prominent UFO literature and a forum for reader discussions.

BUFORA Ball Lightning Project

The journal features an in-depth article on the BUFORA Ball Lightning Project, initiated in July 1977 to gather and analyze reports of this rare and often misunderstood phenomenon. The article highlights the scientific community's historical skepticism towards ball lightning, likening it to other unrepeatable phenomena reported by untrained observers. It notes the variability in descriptions but identifies general trends, suggesting that multiple independent causes might exist. Ball lightning is often observed during thunderstorms but can occur under other atmospheric conditions, typically lasting seconds rather than minutes. Its spherical shape, often several centimeters in diameter, and its association with UFO-like effects such as ozone smells, electrical interference, and ground marks, lead to frequent conflation with UFO reports.

The project has so far collected four first-hand accounts:

1. August/September 1922 or 1923 (Paddington): A schoolboy observed orange balls of fire, football-sized, moving along a line antenna, with fire dripping from an insulator and a faint popping sound.
2. Tuesday following Whit Monday 1931 (Portrewydd, Gwent): During a violent thunderstorm, two boys witnessed a bluish ball, football-sized, strike a brick wall, bounce onto the road, and disappear in sparks, leaving a hole in the wall and a crater in the road.
3. July 1937 (Llangollen, North Wales): Two men driving in a thunderstorm saw a light-yellow, spherical object, about 20 cm in diameter, roll slowly down a roof, along a gutter, and vanish with a bright flash.
4. March 28, 1977 (Newgate Street Village, Herts): A white light, about 10 cm in diameter, was seen hovering at ground level, disappearing after a few seconds, leaving behind burned grass and a smell of burning.

The article discusses potential explanations for these cases, including St. Elmo's fire for Case 1 and conventional lightning for Case 2. Case 3 is considered a possible example of 'buoyant ball lightning,' potentially influenced by an earthed conductor. Case 4, also deemed 'genuine ball lightning,' is noted for its lack of association with thunderstorms and its occurrence in a showery environment with cumulonimbus clouds.

A significant observation is that three out of the four cases are over forty years old, suggesting a possible decline in incidence due to environmental changes like air pollution or a sociological shift where increased awareness of UFOs leads more people to report ball lightning in that context.

Book Reviews

The UFO Enigma by Donald Menzel and E H Taves

Reviewed by Philip Taylor, this book is presented as a potential final word from Professor Donald Menzel, a noted astrophysicist and vocal critic of UFOs. Menzel spent the last 25 years of his life attempting to 'rationalise' UFO reports, arguing for scientific explanations. The reviewer finds the book disappointing, noting repetition and reliance on material from other authors like Klass. It criticizes the reinterpretation of biblical accounts through meteorological optics and the dismissal of authors like Von Daniken and the Bermuda Triangle phenomena. The review highlights the book's treatment of unexplained cases from the Condon Report, often concluding fabrication without concrete evidence. Taylor questions Menzel's sensitivity to the popular appeal of UFOs over science and notes that Menzel's prediction that 'flying saucers will vanish' proved incorrect, as interest in UFOs has only grown since his death.

Prelude to the Landing on Planet Earth by Stuart Holroyd

Reviewed by Bryan Hartley, this book by Stuart Holroyd, an author on psychic matters, explores the limits of human credulity. It chronicles hypnotic-state communications with entities claiming to be from a galactic civilization, involving figures like Andrija Puharich, Phyllis Schlemmer, and Sir John Whitmore. Holroyd attempts to validate the information received from an entity named 'Tom.' Hartley recommends the book as a compelling read and a warning against the retreat from reason when critical abilities are dulled by wishful thinking, though he notes Holroyd remains somewhat literal in his interpretation.

Gods of Aquarius by Brad Steiger

Also reviewed by Bryan Hartley, this book is described as a 'potpourri' of contactee information and philosophy. Steiger interviews numerous individuals across the USA who claim contact with Extraterrestrials, covering topics like 'The Star Maidens,' 'Healing with UFO Energy,' and 'New Age Prophets.' Hartley finds the book interesting and informative but disturbing, as it challenges deeply held beliefs. He notes the existence of thousands of 'silent contactees' who have not reported their experiences publicly. The book is recommended for careful reading and as a reference.

Uforum

This section features correspondence from readers:

• R Jones Pugh (RIC S Wales) comments on a letter from P W (Essex), accepting its scientific accuracy but emphasizing the need to look beyond objective criteria to subjective implications in ufological investigations. He references Gödel's theorem to illustrate the limitations of axiomatic systems in understanding phenomena where such systems may not yet exist.
• P Taylor (Eastbourne) critiques letters from Mr Murphy and 'PW,' describing Murphy's as a 'classic of pseudo-science' and finding 'PW's' letter incomprehensible.
• S C Battman (Basingstoke) reports on a New Scientist article about the discovery of a megalith site ('Namoratunga ii') in north-western Kenya. Nineteen rising directions of seven star formations are aligned to 300 BC, suggesting a sophisticated calendar based on astronomical observations from 2,300 years ago. This find is linked to the 'Ancient Astronaut' theory.

London Lectures

Announcements for upcoming lectures at Kensington Central Library:

• November 4, 1978: 'UFOs-The Psychic Connection' by Sir John Whitmore.
• December 2, 1978: Annual General Meeting (members only) followed by an Audio-Visual presentation of Close Encounter Cases by Alan West.

UFO Newsclipping Service

An advertisement for the UFO Newsclipping Service, a monthly 20-page report detailing UFO accounts from the US, England, Canada, Australia, South America, and other countries.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the scientific investigation of anomalous phenomena, particularly ball lightning and UFOs. There's a clear emphasis on collecting and analyzing firsthand accounts, while also acknowledging the limitations of purely objective scientific methods and the importance of subjective experiences. The editorial stance, as expressed by Norman Oliver, challenges the notion that individuals with a background in ufology are less credible reporters, arguing that their expertise might actually enhance their ability to observe and report. The journal also engages with skeptical viewpoints, as seen in the review of Menzel's book, while simultaneously exploring more speculative areas like psychic connections to UFOs and ancient astronaut theories. The publication positions itself as a platform for detailed case studies and critical discussion within the ufological community.

Title: Report-Extra !
Issue: 9
Volume: 6
Issue Date: August 1978
Publisher: Bufora
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of Report-Extra ! is dedicated to presenting a comprehensive collection of UFO and UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) sighting reports, primarily from the United Kingdom and one from Italy. The magazine focuses on detailed witness accounts, object characteristics, and the investigative efforts of its contributors.

Dagenham Paranormal Research Group Exhibition

The issue opens with a report by Barry King detailing the success of the Dagenham Paranormal Research Group's stand at the annual Dagenham Town Show. The exhibition, themed 'Scientific Ufology,' attracted over 51,000 attendees over two days. A significant number of visitors reported UFO incidents, and the stand also included police officers and military personnel among its visitors. The group's 24-hour UFO hotline, established in March 1977, was also featured. The stand was manned by Roy Lake, Andy Collins, and Barry King, with additional help from others. The event was considered a huge success, leading to plans for Open Forum meetings in August and September. Contact information for 'AWARENESS,' the Journal of Contact UK, is provided.

Membership Updates

An announcement extends a welcome to new members of Bufora, listing individuals admitted from London, Home Counties, and Overseas.

A 'Classic' from Cumbria

This section, presented by Norman Oliver, details a multi-witness report from the Windermere area of Cumbria on Sunday, August 28, 1977. The report compiles sightings from various locations and times, involving numerous witnesses, including ten or more police officers. The objects described share similarities with 'flatfish' objects previously reported.

• 11:47 pm: Peter Simpson (12) and his parents observed two yellow/white lights travelling eastwards from Oxenholme, Kendal.
• 12:10 am: Police Constable Ian Mackenzie in Bowness saw two very bright lights to the right of the Langdale Pikes. The object, described as a large noiseless 'shape,' passed overhead and moved south-east.
• 12:10 am: Police Sergeant John McMullan and three other policemen in Keswick observed two 'car headlights' moving south slowly and silently. The object was described as having the shape of a hang glider or diamond, with white lights on the 'wings' and a faint red/amber light in the centre, emitting a quiet hum.
• 12:20 am: Police Sergeant James Trohear and Police Officer John Fishwick at Fallbarrow Park Caravan site observed two horizontal lights. Sergeant Trohear noted a lesser light forward and another behind, suggesting a triangular or diamond-shaped object. A constable described the outline as 'the shape of a stingray fish.'
• 12:22 am: Police Officer Alexander Inglis and three other officers driving from Keswick to Carlisle saw two extremely bright white lights to the north-west.
• 12:25 am: PC Joseph Maw and another officer on the A592 at Miller Ground, Bowness, observed extremely bright lights moving slowly towards them. They noted two further lights on the object, which made a slight buzzing noise.
• 12:25 am: Mrs Mary Mortlock of High Portinscale, Keswick, saw two lights side by side, then a third amber light. She described the object as impossible to make out, possibly triangular or with an illuminated amber section, with no noise and no beam.
• 12:27 am: Police Constable David Wild and three other officers on the A592 Rayrigg road, Bowness, observed two lights hovering, then moving soundlessly towards them, with a third light at the rear. Constable Wild described the impression as 'kite-shaped or like a skate fish,' noting it was 'very large indeed and solid in construction.'
• 12:30 am: John Platt and his family in Grange-over Sands saw the object before retiring. They observed two, then four bright lights obscuring the shape, which 'floated' noiselessly across the sky.
• 12:30 am: Constable Ronald Jones and Police Sergeant Geoffrey Merckel near Skelwith Bridge observed a 'diamond, kite-shaped object' with four lights moving towards the Morecambe Bay area.
• 12:30 am: A husband and wife in Silverdale provided a detailed description of an object resembling a 'giant ocean-going catamaran with twin hulls,' with large illuminated lights and a dull shadowy charcoal color.

The report includes a table summarizing the reports by time, heading, and chief witness, and a diagram of the area showing sighting locations and the apparent path of the object.

Tottenham 'Torch'

Mr Solomon, a North London clerical officer, observed an illuminated torch-shaped object moving soundlessly from the north-west at an elevation of about 60°, which suddenly disappeared. The object was clearly defined and visible for about thirty seconds, moving at a speed comparable to a commercial aircraft.

Luminous 'Fir Tree'

Mrs Rutherford of Penn, Wolverhampton, driving on the A464, observed an object to her right described as an upside-down fir tree, jagged in outline with a luminous green circle and reddish exhaust sparks. It was estimated to be around four feet long, appeared metallic, and shot off at great speed.

Clapham 'kite' emits 'laser beam'

Christine Arnold of Clapham, London, witnessed a grey object, initially like a box kite, which later emitted a very strong red beam of light. Little white lights flicked on and off, and the object and lights disappeared into a cloud.

Humming object disturbs family

Mrs Mary Moffat of Bucknall, Stoke-on-Trent, was woken by a humming sound and observed a clearly-defined metallic grey object. She watched it for several minutes before it ceased, then returned loudly. Her five-year-old daughter was frightened by the noise.

Orange-strutted cigar'

Mrs Alice Thatcher and a friend observed an object resembling a cigar, plump in the middle, described as 'silver with red markings' or 'orange struts' sticking out from the base of a silver body. It moved noiselessly and gleamed in the sunlight.

Chatham disc with 'family'

On January 1, 1978, a witness in Chatham, Kent, heard a high-pitched humming sound. She and her mother saw a large silver-grey disc from which five smaller yellow objects emerged. The large disc maneuvered and emitted high-speed lights.

Bleeping 'Blue Cockpit'

Glyn Thomas of Cimla, Neath, saw an oval object with a reddish underside and a 'blue cockpit' on top, emitting a white flashing light at two-second intervals. The 'bleeps' synchronized with the flashes, and the object's speed was estimated at 150 mph.

Scorched UFOs over Staffs

This section reports on observations of the same 'object' from three different locations on the evening of April 5, 1978.

• 9:50 pm: Mr Roy Twemlow of Weston Coyney, Staffs, saw a bright light that resolved into three smaller lights forming a triangle, with an orange light appearing and flashing. The lights swooped down and disappeared.
• 10:05 pm: Mr Douglas Cooper and his family observed a bright stationary light that approached, a circular shape with a dome emitting a bright light. Dimly lit portholes and three colored lights in the center were visible. Its underside was 'sooty black as if scorched.'
• 10:12 pm: Mr J F A Moss, a surveyor from Hartshill, Staffs, observed a bright white light with a cluster of red lights above it, moving at an estimated speed of 500 mph and a height of 8,000 feet.

Skateboard UFO

On January 30, 1978, two boys in Basingstoke, Hants, witnessed a round shape in the middle of a glowing orange-yellow light that appeared to be spinning and hovering.

Strange encounter at Genova

Massimo Varrichio reports an encounter experienced by Irene Lucente, a 14-year-old girl in Genova, Italy, on October 26, 1977. She saw the form of a 'man' near a tree, staggering and holding his right hand near his neck. The figure was about 1 meter 60 in height, with two fingers on each hand, and wearing a helmet.

Bufora Activities

Larry Dale has been active in lecturing, including a three-hour talk at Southampton General Hospital. He also spoke at the Rochester Odeon for the first screening of the film 'CEIIIK.' Other Bufora members and investigators were present, and a UFO exhibition was provided.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting of UFO/UAP sightings, the variety of object shapes and behaviors described, and the involvement of multiple witnesses, including law enforcement. The magazine's stance appears to be one of serious investigation and documentation of these phenomena, encouraging public reporting and sharing of experiences. The editorial notes on the synchronisation of bleeps and flashes and the detailed descriptions suggest a commitment to analyzing the evidence presented. The inclusion of international reports, like the one from Italy, broadens the scope of the magazine's coverage.

This issue of 'Points from the Press' is a compilation of various newspaper and magazine articles from across the UK and some international sources, primarily focusing on UFO sightings and related phenomena. The content is presented as a collection of short reports, offering a snapshot of public and media interest in the subject during the period.

Points from the Press - A Selection of Reports

The issue begins with a report from the Tavistock Times detailing a sighting by patients at Tavistock Hospital of a bright white light and a saucer-shaped craft. The object was described as having a halo of light, elongated outwards, with domes on top and bottom. It hovered for about three minutes before tilting and veering away to the northeast. The paper also mentioned numerous bangs and terrific white flashes at night.

An article from the Aldershot Weekend News recounts a MoD Official politely scoffing at UFO sightings, with both the MoD and RAF Odiham refusing to discuss suggestions that the UFO was an RAF helicopter using a special light, citing it as top secret. They did, however, agree that there was some classified flying in the area.

The Shields Gazette reported on a US Navy radar technician who tracked a UFO across the Florida sky at the Pinecastle electronic warfare range. A dozen other workers also spotted brightly-lit objects, one of which hovered, then turned abruptly and sped off. The duty officer noted that several people had called after seeing an object 50 to 60 feet in diameter with flashing lights that equipped radar could not follow.

The Grimsby Evening Telegraph featured reports on a lecture by Norman Oliver to the Cleethorpes Space Science Group. The talk, which included examples of close encounters, generated such interest that many people were unable to gain admittance.

The Streatham News published stories of strange lights seen on the common, including an oblong ball of fire seen only five feet above the ground. Residents also reported seeing it two or three feet above the ground, heading towards the common. A witness saw a round ball of fire travelling just above rooftops that suddenly veered off at tremendous speed. Norman Oliver suggested a connection between these sightings and 'landing marks' found on the common in March.

The Yorkshire Evening Post reported on a series of late-night bangs on Humberside that frightened many people, jamming police switchboards. Patrols were put on alert, but the cause remained a mystery. In Hull, two ladies reported seeing an object like a spaceship in the sky within five minutes of each other. The MoD offered no explanation.

The Western Telegraph reviewed 'The Blue Stones of Preseli,' a production that connected UFO sightings in West Wales with the magical properties of the stones.

The Sunday Mirror ran the headline 'UFO's swoop on Air Bases,' suggesting this as the explanation for unidentified hovering craft spotted by military observers and radar trackers. Pilots attempted to give chase, but the Pentagon reportedly tried to explain these incidents as unidentified helicopters flown by unknown pilots. Details of 'space spies' from 1975 were disclosed by Ground Saucer Watch Inc.

The Eastern Daily Press, in its International Commentary, discussed UFOs as media stock material during slack periods, suggesting that rational explanations are often overlooked. It noted that 'UFO' is a military term for unidentified objects, and authorities are reluctant to identify them for security reasons, using the UFO label as an extension of the Official Secrets Act. The article mentioned programmes for killer satellites, cruise missiles, and neutron detonations, and stated that descriptions of cigar-shaped, domed, silent, hovering, flashing, and wingless craft correspond to aerospace technology principles. Remotely piloted vehicles with muffled engines and night-time laser tracking systems can radiate strange lights and are sometimes destroyed, possibly leading to strange sightings.

The South Wales Echo offered an explanation for two spherical, glowing red objects seen moving in formation: Cardiff amateur astronomer Gerard Dolan suggested the description fits Venus and Jupiter, with the red glow caused by light passing through the Earth's atmosphere.

The Leicester Mercury provided a similar explanation by Trevor Thornton of the Unidentified Aerial Phenomena Research Organisation for UFOs seen in that county, suggesting binoculars reveal a prismatic effect that splits white light, making the object appear coloured.

The Evening Sentinel mentioned a UFO exhibition and conference in Crewe, featuring guest lecturers Tony Pace and Lionel Beer of Bufora.

The Halifax Evening Courier reported on mysterious objects in the night sky over Calderdale. Trevor Whitaker of Bufora discounted one sighting as Venus, while another witness saw a blue star-like object moving at different speeds. Other sightings included a light splitting into three.

The News-letter (Belfast) recounted an object described as 'tube-like' or a ball of fire that hit the ground with an explosion felt over a 60-mile radius in a desolate region between Buenos Aires and La Paz. Border guards and scientific experts were searching, and US Air Force Officers involved with NASA were trying to determine if it was similar to a Soviet satellite that crashed in Canada.

The Sunday Mirror reported on eight children who ran home in panic after seeing a silver light as big as a double-decker bus, which turned red and vanished, turning nearby trees silver. The object was noiseless, and the children thought it was going to take them. A father, a Special Constable, thought it was a hot air balloon or helicopter, but nearby RAF Lyneham stated no aircraft were in their airspace.

The Catering Times reported on a UFO Conference at Frome that had to move venues due to alleged double booking. Only 50 people attended out of an anticipated 600. The event was described as badly organized.

In Reveille, Italian aviation expert Carlo Di Folca claimed that America and Russia signed a pact in 1971 to swap information about UFOs and keep the rest of the world in the dark to avoid mistaking UFOs for atomic missiles, and to discredit the idea that UFOs exist.

The Western Daily Press featured Lord Christopher Thynne, who became president of the newly formed Warminster UFO Club.

The Gloucester Journal included a three-column feature by JR Casey of the British Flying Saucer Bureau, detailing the Bureau's activities and its association with Bufora.

The Lancashire Evening Telegraph featured a photo of a domed-shaped object snapped over Shiraz by an Iranian student, which clearly showed three windows. A week later, three more saucers were seen flying together.

The Daily Mail and other papers reported on the Cutty Sark Whisky Offer, naming Susan McMahon, a Californian grandmother, who offered the firm's director and three others a ride in a flying saucer. Director Russ Taylor thought there would be claimants, but Bufora's Chairman, Lionel Beer, considered the chances of success nil.

From Ghosts to UFOs - Warminster

Paul Devos, in his article 'From Ghosts to UFOs,' addresses the suspicion surrounding Warminster due to hoaxes, but argues that in 14 years of UFO research, Warminster is the only place he has seen something he could not identify. He notes the possibility of a connection between psychic and UFO phenomena.

The article details occurrences at two locations, Cradle Hill and Starr Hill, which have been attributed to different causes but may indicate the same force at work. Accounts of electro-magnetic phenomena in relation to UFO sightings are legion, and Warminster has seen many such cases.

A classic example is reported by Leonard Pike, a businessman who, in 1967, experienced his car engine cutting out and his eardrums being affected by a whining noise as he passed Cley Hill. He then observed a glowing white disc hovering above him before it sped away towards Cley Hill.

While 'vehicle stoppage' cases were common in Warminster in 1965-67, they have become rarer. However, Neil Pike described two such incidents where no UFO was obvious.

Mr Pike's own experiences are recounted: on Saturday, 29 June 1974, his car engine cut out just after leaving Starr Hill Barn. He found no obvious reason for the failure, but the car started instantly the next morning after being out in torrential rain overnight. On Monday, 21 October 1974, again at Starr Hill, Mr Pike's car parking lights, which had not been working for months, suddenly illuminated at 9.05 pm. All attempts to extinguish them failed, and they could not be turned on again. Mr Pike found these experiences, especially the latter, rather mystifying.

The article notes that these incidents, while puzzling, are commonplace within the UFO enigma. Neil Pike is described as a sound, reliable observer. The author acknowledges the suspicion surrounding Warminster but feels there is something 'alive' there, possibly on a psychic level. It is suggested that the continued 'onslaught of UFOs' since 1965 may have instigated or re-activated psychical properties of Cradle and Starr Hills.

Reports of the 'Invisible Walker' have occurred at Cradle Hill and Starr Hill. In August 1973, observers at Starr Hill heard six heavy footsteps coming down the road, but no one entered the torch beam.

Only three instances are recorded of actual physical indications of a 'presence' witnessed in conjunction with footsteps, reported in Wessex UFO Record No 7 by Neil Drinan. Mr Drinan had similar experiences on 20 July 1974, 10 August 1974, and 21 September 1974, involving footsteps and an invisible force or being pushing aside barley. On one occasion, he and a friend observed the barn gate open and heard hay and straw being kicked by the 'Invisible Walker.'

Other phenomena reported from Starr Hill include the appearance of 'giant figures' that seem to stand immobile, silently watching the barn. These figures were first seen at Cradle Hill in 1971 and have now apparently moved to Starr Hill.

The author reflects on the atmosphere at Starr Hill, noting that such phenomena may be more easily observed when only small numbers of people are present. He wonders if alien forms find it easier to manifest themselves in such conditions. Neil Pike questioned whether the giant figures would have become so integral to the UFO scene at Warminster if he had not been so hasty in reporting his original experience. The article suggests that suggestion, particularly in locations already established as centres of UFO and paranormal activity, is a force to be reckoned with. However, the author does not wish to be too sceptical, having experienced minor visual and auditory phenomena himself, for which he has no satisfactory explanation.

The article concludes that Warminster remains a place well worth visiting, with the second part of the article to proceed to Borley.

Sighting Summaries

A table presents a chronological list of UFO sightings from 1936 to 1978, detailing the Code No., Date, Time, Place, Report, Class, and Investigator/Credit for each. The reports include descriptions such as 'Camouflaged cigar,' 'Circular object-lighted windows,' 'Large white round/bell shapes,' 'Cross,' 'Silver/white Spheroid,' 'Cigar & Saucer-like objects,' 'White light,' 'White/orange light,' 'White object,' 'Bird shape,' '2 saucers atop another,' 'Five white circles,' 'Orange disc,' 'Cigar changing colour,' 'Several round white objects,' 'Brilliant white light,' 'Starlike object,' 'Red pulsing light,' 'Silver/grey cigar,' 'Black triangle,' 'Dome shape with lights,' 'Four yellow ovals,' 'Coloured balls,' 'Round silver-grey humming object,' 'Silver tennis bat,' 'Grounded egg shape,' 'Blue/grey saucer shape,' 'Vari-coloured lights and triangle,' 'White/silver lights/balls,' and 'Silvery cigar.'

Another table continues the sighting summaries from 1977 to March 1978, with similar details. Descriptions include 'Warming pan with sparks,' 'Two white discs,' 'Brilliant orange object,' 'Red and white lights,' 'Sparkling red oval,' 'Eight objects with lights,' 'Red and green light,' 'Four flashing circles,' 'Blue domed object,' 'Cigar with red lights,' 'Brownish triangle,' 'Metallic tin helmet,' 'Silver circle with blue glow,' '2 silver-white ovaloids,' 'Bright cereal bowl,' 'Red oval,' 'Humming saucer,' 'Multi-coloured spinning object,' 'Two coloured points of light,' 'Red and white saucer,' and 'Two manoeuvring lights.'

British Authors - Arthur Shuttlewood

This section profiles Arthur Shuttlewood, a journalist and author known for his work on UFOs, particularly concerning Warminster. It notes that Warminster has consistently attracted ufologists and has registered numerous authentic UFO reports. Shuttlewood's background includes 30 years as a journalist, seven years as a Grenadier Guard, and time with the Air Ministry Constabulary, as well as being a Warminster urban councillor.

• His books mentioned are:
• The Warminster Mystery
• Warnings from Flying Friends
• UFOs-Key to the New Age
• The Flying Saucerers

Further books in preparation include 'UFOs in Motion' and 'Wheels of Heaven and A Rainbow of UFOs.'

Fufor - Federation UFO Research of Crewe

Fufor is commencing publication of its own magazine and invites submissions of UFO and UFO-related articles, including short biographies. Details of UFO events are also welcome for free publicisation. A 'For Sale and Wanted' column is available at 2p per word. Items should be sent to Mark Tyrrell, Editor, at 24 Cavendish Road, Crewe, Cheshire, CW2 8SW.

Special Announcement - London UFO Conference

An announcement details plans for a London UFO Conference, tentatively scheduled for Sunday, 26 August 1979. Bufora is collaborating with Grand Metropolitan Hotels to present noted speakers, including prominent overseas ufologists. The event is designed to benefit those outside London, offering overnight West End Hotel accommodation at reasonable rates via a combined British Rail/Hotel package deal. The prospect of this being the first truly international UFO Conference in the UK is highlighted. Members are asked to complete a coupon to receive full details of the projected conference.

Lending Library Restarting

Colin and Janet Andrews have agreed to restart a book lending library facility for Bufora, with books available by mail or collection. Details can be obtained by writing to Mr and Mrs Andrews at 339 Eastwood Road, Rayleigh, Essex.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the widespread reporting of UFO sightings across various locations, the lack of official explanations, and the media's interest in UFOs as a topic. There is a notable focus on the Warminster area, highlighting its reputation for UFO and paranormal activity, and exploring potential connections between psychic phenomena and UFOs. The issue also showcases the efforts of UFO research organizations like Bufora and Fufor in disseminating information and organizing events. The editorial stance appears to be one of documenting and presenting these reports, with a degree of open-mindedness towards the phenomena, as exemplified by the inclusion of Arthur Shuttlewood's work and the author's personal reflections on the Warminster experiences. The inclusion of detailed sighting summaries suggests a commitment to cataloging and analyzing UFO data.

This issue of UFO DATA, Volume 1, Issue 2, dated July 1977, focuses on news from the Edinburgh Branch, publications, and organizational updates within the UFO research community.

Edinburgh Branch News

The Edinburgh Branch recently hosted M Angel Grazioli, a professional engineer from Beziers, France, who is associated with the French UFO journals 'Ouranos' and 'Lumieres dans la Nuit'. Grazioli reported that the well-known French UFO research scientist, Dr. C. Poher, is now working full-time on UFO research, funded by a government salary. The article notes that this is an unprecedented appointment for a civilian and suggests it could be a model for future developments.

Attendance at the branch meetings is increasing. The July meeting featured a tape recording of a Radio Aberdeen link-up discussion on UFOs. Participants included Charles Bowen (FSR Editor in London), Ian Taylor (in Aberdeen), and the branch secretary, Peter A. Hill (representing Bufora in Edinburgh). Ian Taylor reported several sightings in the Aberdeen area and believes the Grampian Mountains region may be a hotspot for UFO activity.

The Edinburgh branch now has an entry under "UFO Research" in the local phone directory and maintains a substantial library of books and journals.

Peter A. Hill, Branch Secretary, signed off this section.

UFO Clipping Service Advertisement

The 'A.P.C.I.C. UFO Clipping Service' offers comprehensive U.S. and Canadian coverage of UFO and Monster sightings on a monthly basis. It also includes a special section on worldwide UFO sightings, aiming to keep subscribers up-to-date on current events. To subscribe for the first month's issue, send a check or money order for $5.00 to Aerial Phenomenon Clipping & Information Center, P.O. Box 9073, Cleveland, Ohio 44137. The service is described as "Total Press Coverage Monthly".

Books and Leaflets

A list of books and leaflets related to UFOs is provided, with prices for members and non-members. Titles include:

• 'An Engineer's Look at UFO's' by Leonard Cramp (30p/50p)
• 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' edited by Ted Bloecher (60p/70p)
• 'Guide to the UFO Phenomenon: Investigation Procedures' by Trevor Whitaker (45p/65p)
• 'Investigators Handbook: The Use of Analytical Instruments in the Search for Extra-terrestrial Spacecraft' by David Viewing (£2.50/£3.50)
• '1976 Conference Proceedings' (£2.50/£3.50)
• 'Articles of Association' (members only) (£1.25)
• 'Bufora Journals (back numbers)' (35p/50p)

Some publications are available as photocopies. All are available post-free from Arnold West, Bufora Publications, 16 Southway, Burgess Hill, Sussex, RH15 9ST.

Personal Column

Several personal advertisements are featured:

• A 'Skywatch UFO Detector' is advertised for £9.00, described as a magnetic needle type detector with a latching circuit and audio alarm. Explanatory literature is available via stamped addressed envelope. The seller, Malcolm Jay, notes that 'successful' means purchasers have reported seeing UFOs.
• An unattached lady in her early thirties from the Surrey area, interested in Astronomy, UFOs, and Science Fiction, is seeking a companion with similar interests and transport. Correspondence is to be sent to Box UL, 95 Taunton Rd, London SE12 8PA.
• Information on 'Close Encounter Cassette Tapes (C60)' is available from Skyquest (B), 95 Taunton Road, London SE12 8PA.
• An advertisement seeks information on "more bizarre and unusual CE111 claims" and requests correspondence to Box SX3, 95 Taunton Road, London SE12 8PA.
• 'UFOS AND THE CHRISTIAN' by Eric Inglesby, with a foreword by Bishop Bardsley, is available for £2.50 from Spring Cottage, Fairford, Glos.

The British UFO Research Association

Bufora Limited (by guarantee) was founded in 1964 and is registered in London. Its registered office is in Nottingham. Bufora incorporates the London UFO Research Organisation (founded 1959) and the British UFO Association (founded 1962).

The association's aims are:

1. To encourage, promote, and conduct unbiased scientific research of unidentified flying objects (UFO) phenomena within the United Kingdom.
2. To collect and disseminate evidence and data related to UFOs.
3. To co-ordinate UFO research throughout the UK and cooperate with international researchers.

Membership is open to all who support these aims and whose applications are approved by the Executive Council. The annual subscription is £5.00, or $10 in the USA and Canada. Application and information forms can be obtained from any officer.

The issue also notes Burnett's Printing Works, Cyprus Rd, Burgess Hill, W Sussex, as a contact.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine appears to be a publication of Bufora, a UK-based UFO research organization. The content reflects a strong interest in UFO sightings, research, and the dissemination of information through publications, journals, and a clipping service. The editorial stance is one of promoting and conducting scientific research into UFO phenomena, with an emphasis on unbiased investigation and global cooperation. The inclusion of personal ads and a wide range of books and leaflets suggests an effort to engage a broad audience within the UFO community.