BUFORA Journal - Volume 08 No 02 - Apr 1979

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA JOURNAL
Issue: Vol 8 No 2
Date: April 1979
Publisher: British UFO Research Association

This issue of the BUFORA JOURNAL delves into various aspects of UFO phenomena, with a particular focus on the potential religious and demonic dimensions of sightings. It features a mix of reported cases, editorial commentary, book reviews, and organizational updates.

Editorial: The Devil of a problem!

The editorial, written by Norman Oliver, addresses the introduction of the religious aspect of UFOs, specifically the possibility of a demonic origin, as raised by Reverend Eric Inglesby. Oliver emphasizes the importance of considering all possible solutions to the UFO enigma, but cautions against researchers starting with a preconceived notion and then seeking only supporting evidence. He argues that while the religious aspect should not be ignored, it should not be treated as the definitive, heaven-sent solution. The editorial stresses the need for a balanced approach, acknowledging that 'demons' might exist in all aspects of life, and suggests that 'ignorance' might be a more fitting term than 'demonic activity' when considering alien motivations.

Points from the Press

Compiled by Valerie Martin, this section collates numerous UFO sighting reports from various UK newspapers throughout October and November 1978. These include:

• The Bucks Herald (October 5): A drawing of a large spherical object with red lights seen over the Vale of Aylesbury, and a saucer-like object moving upwards at Wingrave.
• The Stafford Newsletter (October 13): Reports of numerous sightings received by research director Tony Pace, featuring circles of flashing lights and objects making rapid up-and-down movements.
• The South London Press (October 17): An account of a triangular black object with a silvery sheen, described as eight to nine times the size of a plane, hovering silently above Streatham High-road before moving towards Mitcham with a roaring noise.
• The Grimsby Evening Telegraph (October 14): A letter from Bufora member Stephen Draper encouraging critical readers to join Bufora.
• The Sunday Mirror (October 22): A report from Chard, Somerset, where a woman saw a UFO with a strong light and metal legs, which then rose and disappeared.
• The Express and Echo (Exeter, October 17): A reporter's study of UFO literature led to contact with Norman Oliver, who was described as a down-to-earth investigator.
• The Bideford and North Devon Gazette (October 27): Coverage of a proposed North Devon UFO Study Group.
• The Manchester Evening News (November 6): A feature on Jack Webb and his involvement with NBC's 'Project UFO's,' based on USAF Project Blue Book cases.
• The Evening Advertiser (November 2): A story about a young UFO watcher in Swindon who photographed a blurred red object.
• The Watford Evening Echo (October 24): Reports of a missing Australian pilot after sighting an object with green lights, leading to numerous UFO reports around the Victorian coast.
• The Whitstable Times (November 24): A report by local weather expert Percy Hatton of a block of light grey vapour and a glistening silver plate-shaped object seen moving rapidly.
• News of the World (December 17): An account of a French engineer's encounter with a UFO near Chapelle-de-Suxleu, described as a 'giant luminous hedgehog.'
• The Birmingham Evening Mail (November 30): Reports of mysterious events along Italy's Adriatic coast, including the deaths of fishermen and sightings of underwater and skyward lights.
• The Sunday People (January 7): Continued reports from Italy, including sightings of an 8 ft tall 'Martian,' a large UFO travelling at high speed, and a station technician being temporarily paralysed by a glowing red UFO.
• The Daily Telegraph (January 2): An article on a New Zealand UFO sighting, with astronomers refuting extraterrestrial origins.
• The North Norfolk News (January 5): An article on a large 'spaceship' seen off Cromer and Skegness, described as a bright light or airship with bands of light and red/green lights.
• The Folkestone Herald (January 27): An account by a postman of a yellow flashing light and a cigar-shaped moving object with wings.

London Lectures

Details are provided for three upcoming lectures:

• May 5, 1979: 'Probing the UFO Timetable' by Roy Dutton.
• June 2, 1979: 'Shamans and Silver Discs' by Stephen Jenkins.
• June 23, 1979: 'The New Zealand UFO Flap-1978/79' by Rocky Wood.

These meetings are held at the Lecture Theatre of Kensington Central Library, London W8.

Book Reviews

• "UFOs: WHAT ON EARTH IS HAPPENING" by John Wheldon: Reviewed by S. Kellard. The reviewer found the book interesting and providing a fair picture of UFO phenomena, but criticized the emphasis on the occult and demonic aspects. Kellard suggests that 'ignorance' might be a better term than 'demonic activity' for alien motivations and that we may be seeing a reflection of our own fears.

Advertisements

Information is provided for personal and display advertisements in the journal, along with the address for advertisement copy. Cover design is credited to Richard Beet.

BUFORA Branches and Departments

Details are given for the Council members of BUFORA for 1978/9, the Administration Department, Publications Department, and the Research and Investigations Department, including contact persons and addresses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the reporting of UFO sightings from various global locations, the ongoing debate about the nature and origin of UFOs (including religious and potentially demonic explanations), and the role of investigative organizations like BUFORA. The editorial stance, as expressed by Norman Oliver, is one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging the consideration of all hypotheses while maintaining a critical and evidence-based approach, and cautioning against dogmatic conclusions.

This issue of the BUFORA Journal, identified by its issue number 9, presents a collection of reports and articles related to Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs) and related phenomena. The content is primarily in English and originates from the United Kingdom. The journal features numerous witness accounts, investigational notes, and organizational updates from Bufora.

Letters and Editorials

The issue opens with a letter from Rev Eric Inglesby, who expresses apprehension about the development of UFO phenomena, particularly concerning potential religious involvement, while urging correspondents to avoid attacking other religions. The editor ('Ed.') agrees with the importance of the topic and requests respectful discourse.

Chairman's Notes

Under the heading 'Chairman's Notes,' Lionel Beer, the Chairman, outlines several points. 'Volunteers Needed' calls for individuals to assist with publicity, including preparing and distributing press releases, writing letters, and sending out publicity material. Essential qualifications include good English, typing, and writing skills. 'New Information Leaflets' announces that the membership and information leaflet has been revised, and old versions should be discarded. Members can request copies of the new leaflet from the Publications Officer, Mr Arnold West. The 'Bufora Annual Award' is introduced, established for 'Services to Ufology.' The recipient need not be a member but should have dedicated significant time to the field. Past recipients include Arnold West (1978) and Bernard Delair (1979). Nominations should be sent to the Hon Secretary, Miss Betty Wood.

Reports and Sightings

The journal features several detailed reports of UFO sightings:

Object dropped from M3 UFO

Presented by Norman Oliver and investigated by Inv K Phillips, this report details an incident on the M3 motorway near Walton-on-Thames on December 18, 1978. Security manager Paul Brown and his step-brother, David Barrowcliffe, observed a disc-shaped object with large red lights approaching their car. A smaller, 'dull silver like a ball' object dropped from the UFO and landed in a field. The UFO then moved off at an estimated 200 mph. The M3 was clear of traffic at the time.

'Rooftop Report' from Chelmsford

Investigated by Inv A Collins, this report from January 31, 1978, describes Mr. Bar trop seeing a bright light descend and then an object appearing from behind a building in Chelmsford. The object, described as having two large, bright, yellow-orange lights and wing-like features, hovered about 50 feet above ground before disappearing.

UFO Tracks Car

Investigated by Inv B Taylor, this incident occurred on July 3, 1978, near Market Rasen. Mark Smith and his passengers saw two bright lights hovering, which were later identified as a UFO that tracked their car.

'67 'saucers' over Southend

Investigated by Inv R Lake, this report from June 1967 recounts Christopher Beard, a Police Sergeant, witnessing what he described as a visitation by two UFOs while fishing in Canewdon, near Southend.

South Downs' Circle with Spokes'

Investigated by Inv R Fisher, this sighting from August 5, 1977, involved Mrs. Doreen Trevor, who saw a circular object, brilliant gold in color, with triangular sections resembling spokes and strange markings.

South Norwood Hexagon

Investigated by Inv K Phillips, this report from December 16, 1978, describes Ian Vincent, aged 14, seeing a 'sizeable object' with flashing red and yellow lights, described as hexagonal, hovering low over his father's car in Norwood.

Portslade Object

Investigated by Inv Tony Fox, this sighting from November 26, 1978, involved Mrs. Duke seeing an object with bright white lights at the front and red lights around its circular shape, making a quiet humming sound.

Hornchurch 'Boxes and Pipes'

Investigated by Inv A Collins, this report from April or May 1978 involves two boys, Anthony Chapman (15) and a friend, who saw a large, silver, rectangular box-like object with protruding pipes and two red dots flashing alternately.

Cairo Craft '73

Reported by Inv D Osman, this incident from February 14, 1973, in Geza, Egypt, describes Richard Stubbs seeing three craft with flat undersides and domes moving slowly towards the pyramids, with lit windows.

Portsdown 'Giant Mushroom'

Investigated by Inv E Sears, this report from November 7, 1978, describes a bright light descending from ASWE, followed by red lights and a dome-shaped object seen by the Mailing family near Portsdown Hill.

Strange Encounter at Church Stowe

Investigated by Inv R Pearcy, this is a verbatim account from Mrs. E Oakensen. On November 22, 1978, she experienced an 'hour-glass' shaped object with red and green lights above the A5. Subsequently, her car engine stopped, lights went out, and she experienced a perceived time lapse, with the car starting normally as if by remote control. The incident occurred in complete darkness, and the following day, the sidelight bulb that was not functioning now worked.

Taunton Close Encounters-Part One

This section, written by Barry M King, introduces a complex claim dating from October 1973, involving alleged vehicle interference, a robotic encounter, abduction, and physical examination aboard a landed craft, with subsequent visits by 'Men in Black.' The report is divided into two parts, with Part One covering events up to the point of abduction. The author notes that while some aspects are sensational, the report is being published to form part of the overall background to the UFO enigma. Initials only are used for witnesses due to the nature of the experience. The 'V' family, originally from Torino, Italy, are described as ordinary, sincere, and truthful, making them unlikely to fabricate such a story.

Background Data

This section provides background information on the 'V' family involved in the Taunton case, detailing their immigration to England in 1963, their ages, occupations, and family structure. It emphasizes their ordinary nature and lack of academic or technical qualifications, reinforcing the investigator's belief in their sincerity.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the detailed reporting of UFO sightings with specific witness testimonies, investigational efforts by individuals associated with Bufora, and the organization's administrative updates. The editorial stance, as indicated by the editor's note, is to approach the subject of UFOs with seriousness and to encourage respectful discussion, avoiding attacks on other belief systems. The journal aims to document and investigate these phenomena, publishing accounts that, while sometimes unprovable, contribute to the broader understanding of the UFO enigma.

This document, issue 19 of 'UFO DATA', details a significant UFO encounter and abduction case experienced by a witness identified as Mrs V on the evening of Tuesday, October 16, 1973. The incident took place on a deserted minor road (B3187) near Milverton, on the way to Wellington, Somerset, UK. The issue includes a hand-drawn map illustrating the location of the event.

Events Prior to the Encounter

Mrs V was preparing tea when her friend's daughter arrived, asking for a ride to fetch Mrs V's mother. Mrs V agreed to go after finishing her tea and preparing for the journey. She informed her husband of her plans. At approximately 10:45 pm, she departed and chose to bypass the town centre of Taunton, heading towards Milverton and then taking the B3187 road to Wellington. She was concerned about her friend and the delay caused by unexpected callers.

E-M Effects

As Mrs V drove along the small, winding road to Wellington, she noticed a very bright light in the fields to her right. Shortly after, her white BMC Mini saloon began to malfunction. The headlights flickered and went out, the engine jolted and spluttered, and eventually stalled and cut out. The car rolled to the side of the road and stopped. Mrs V attempted to restart the engine unsuccessfully.

The Light and the Robot

While her car was malfunctioning, Mrs V glanced at the bright light, which she connected to the car's problems. She described it as half-moon or hemispherical in shape, flat on the bottom, and rounded at the top. It was an intense, constant white light, appearing to be at ground level. As she sat in the darkness, she heard a humming sound, not unlike a generator, permeating the area. When she got out to check the car, she became aware of this sound more strongly. Upon returning to the car and preparing to open the driver's door, a heavy hand was placed on her left shoulder, pushing her down. Turning around, she faced a tall, dark-coloured metallic robot. She described its movement as stiff, with knees bending slightly. Its hands were twice the size of her own. The only sound it made was a knocking noise. After the robot removed its hand from her shoulder clumsily, Mrs V passed out.

Outside the Craft

Mrs V's next memory is of standing in the field next to the robot, in front of a large, rounded, half-moon shaped object. The intense light had subsided to a faint glow. She perceived the object as a machine, silver-grey in colour, without visible rivets or seams. It was supported by thick legs, approximately 2 ft 6 ins high and 2 ft across. She estimated its size to be two car lengths high and four car lengths wide (20 ft x 40 ft). The craft had large, oblong windows emitting a yellow light, and the humming sound was emanating from it. Mrs V blacked out for a second time.

The Craft's Interior

She next found herself inside the object, strapped to a table in the centre of a circular room. Her clothes had been removed, and she was covered by a light-blue blanket. The interior of the craft was described as icy cold. She was restrained by large 'rubber bands' on her legs and ankles. The room had a domed ceiling and was uniformly lit. The floor was covered in black rubber matting with 'pimples'. Various pieces of equipment were scattered on the walls. To her right was a console with many buttons, dials, and levers, predominantly grey, with red, yellow, blue, and green controls. Two transparent plastic tubes, about a foot apart, were pointed down towards her head from the curved ceiling. The table she was on was about 4 ft wide by 6 ft long, with a smooth, black rubber surface. The table's support was out of sight, about 2 ft off the floor. A tubular rail was fixed to the side of the table. Mrs V felt sure a door was situated behind her. Three men then came into view.

Extra-to-Programme Lecture and Research Note

The issue also contains an announcement for a lecture by Mr Rocky Wood of ECRA on June 23rd at Kensington Central Library, covering Kaikoura reports, UFO films, and RNZAF involvement. Additionally, Thomas O'Neill of ISTRA(UK) notes that the Interplanetary Space Travel Research Association is an investigational body founded in 1957.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of this issue is a detailed account of a UFO abduction experience, focusing on the witness's personal testimony and the physical characteristics of the alleged craft and its occupants. The editorial stance appears to be one of presenting factual accounts of UFO phenomena, supported by witness reports and investigative notes, as evidenced by the inclusion of the lecture announcement and the research association note. The publication aims to document and disseminate information on UFO sightings and encounters.

This document is a scan of pages from a publication detailing the "First London International UFO Congress" and related UFO news and research. The primary focus is on the upcoming congress, providing dates, venue, and information on how to obtain details and application forms. It also includes announcements for "National Skywatches" and advertisements for UFO-related books, services, and organizations.

First London International UFO Congress

The "First London International UFO Congress" is scheduled to take place on Sunday and Monday, August 26-27, 1979, coinciding with the August Bank Holiday weekend. The venue is the prestigious Mount Royal Hotel in Marble Arch, London W1.

Details about the congress are being sent to those who have requested information. The organizers have received over two hundred enquiries at this early stage, even before the event has been advertised outside their own journal. They strongly advise anyone intending to attend to send for the necessary information package immediately to avoid disappointment. An early enquiry places attendees under no obligation but ensures they receive details before wider advertising attracts broader public interest.

The congress will feature the presentation of about eight major papers. The large foyer of the Congress suites will be used for an Exhibition and a bookstall. An optional Planetarium visit and a special Congress dinner are also planned.

To simplify arrangements, a "Package Deal" is offered, which includes return rail travel, Central London Hotel accommodation, and admission to the Congress, representing a considerable saving on standard prices. Special arrangements will also be available for delegates coming from overseas.

Applications and full details are to be obtained by writing to Mr Colin Rillstone at the UFO Congress Secretariat, 7/8 Stratford Place, London W1A 4YU. The congress is arranged in conjunction with Grand Metropolitan Hotels.

Speakers

The lead speaker is Dr J Allen Hynek, Director of the Center for UFO Studies. UK speakers include J Bernard Delair, BSc, editor of Awareness, and Norman Oliver, FRAS, editor of the Bufora Journal. Leading European ufologists are being asked to contribute.

National Skywatches

Two "National Skywatches" are scheduled for 1979. The first is on Saturday, June 23, and the second on Saturday, October 20. These events will be operative from approximately 9 pm on Saturday evening to 4 am on Sunday morning. This year, instead of a single central control, three phone-in control points will be in use: one each for the North, Midlands, and South of the country.

Members and groups wishing to participate are requested to contact NIC Larry Dale as soon as possible. His contact details are 11 Wimbourne Road, St Pauls Cray, Kent BR5 2NS, with the telephone number Orpington 39587 (or 66 39587 from the Greater London Area). This is to enable detailed arrangements to be finalized.

UFO Newsclipping Service

An advertisement promotes the "UFO NEWSCLIPPING SERVICE" run by Lucius Farish, Route 1, Box 220, Plumerville, Arkansas 72127, USA. This service provides a monthly 20-page report containing the latest UFO accounts from the US, England, Canada, Australia, South America, and other countries, aiming to keep subscribers informed about worldwide UFO activity. Interested parties are invited to write for subscription information and sample pages.

Books and Leaflets

A list of books and leaflets available for purchase is provided, with prices for members and non-members. Titles include:

• An Engineer's Look at UFO's by Leonard Cramp
• Close Encounters of the Third Kind (edited by Ted Bloecher, CF Lockwood & AR Pace)
• Guide to the UFO Phenomenon by Trevor Whitaker
• Investigation Procedures by Trevor Whitaker
• The Use of Analytical Instruments in the Search for Extra-terrestrial Spacecraft by David Viewing
• Investigators Handbook
• 1976 Conference Proceedings
• Bufora Journals (back numbers)

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

Personal Column

This section contains various notices:

• Phantom Helicopters: A researcher is seeking sighting information and theories about mysterious unidentified helicopters and aircraft from around the world. Information is available from MAPIT (Special Issue No 2, 40p) and Skywatch (30p). Inquiries should be sent to David Rees, 92 Hillcrest Road, Offerton, Stockport, Cheshire SK2 5SE, England.
• Skywatch UFO detector: Two models of the Skywatch UFO detector are available: a magnetic needle type and an electro-magnetic field sensor pocket portable model, priced at £9.00 each. Full explanatory literature can be obtained by sending a stamped addressed envelope to Malcolm Jay, 102 Nelson Road, Chingford, E4 9AS.
• Flying Saucer Review Back Issues: Offers are invited for 100 back issues of "Flying Saucer Review" from 1957 to 1973. Interested parties should contact Mr D Rodway, 234 Seven Sisters Road, Lower Willingdon, E Sussex BN22 0PG.

The British UFO Research Association (BUFORA)

Information is provided about BUFORA, established in 1964 and registered as a limited company. Its registered office is Hazelmont House, Gregory Boulevard, Nottingham. It incorporates the London UFO Research Organisation (founded 1959) and the British UFO Association (founded 1962).

The aims of BUFORA are:
1. To encourage, promote, and conduct unbiased scientific research into unidentified flying objects (UFO) phenomena within the United Kingdom.
2. To collect and disseminate evidence and data relating to UFOs.
3. To co-ordinate UFO research throughout the UK and cooperate with others globally.

The annual membership subscription is £5.00 (or $10 in the USA and Canada). Membership is open to all who support the association's aims and whose application is approved by the Executive Council. Application and information forms can be obtained from any officer.

Burnett's Printing Works, Cyprus Rd, Burgess Hill, W Sussex, is mentioned as a printer, with Tel. B. Hill 3126 (STD) 044 46.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The publication strongly promotes UFO research and awareness, evident in the detailed coverage of the upcoming International UFO Congress and the "National Skywatches." It actively encourages public participation in UFO observation and research, providing resources such as books, newsletters, and organizational memberships. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious engagement with the UFO phenomenon, aiming to inform and involve the public in scientific investigation and data collection. The inclusion of advertisements for UFO detectors and back issues of "Flying Saucer Review" further indicates a commitment to the UFO research community.