BUFORA Bulletin - No 18 - Jul 1985

Magazine Overview

Title: BUFORA BULLETIN
Issue: No. 18
Date: JULY 1985
Publisher: BUFORA LTD
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0265-1947

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated July 1985, is the eighteenth number published by the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA). The cover features a striking black and white image of a child pointing towards lights in the sky above a building, with the magazine title prominently displayed.

BUFORA Organisation and Aims

The bulletin provides a comprehensive list of the BUFORA Council for 1985-86, including key officers such as the President (The Rt. Hon Earl of Clancarty), Vice-Presidents, Council Chairman (Arnold West), Vice-Chairman (Stephen Gamble), Secretary (Miss Diane Rollison), Treasurer (Christopher Pearson), and Director of Investigations (Miss Jenny Randles). It also details the roles of other officers like the Director of Research (Stephen Gamble), Librarian (Robin Lindsey), and Training Officer (Ken Phillips).

BUFORA's aims are clearly stated: to encourage, promote, and conduct unbiased scientific research into unidentified flying objects (UFO) phenomena in the United Kingdom; to collect and disseminate evidence and data relating to UFOs; and to co-ordinate UFO research nationally and internationally. Membership is open to all who support these aims and whose application is approved by the Executive Committee.

The publication also notes BUFORA's entry on the PRESTEL viewdata system and lists its member societies, including the British UFO Group (BFSB) and the London UFO Research Association.

Contents and Featured Articles

The issue features a variety of articles and reports on UFO phenomena:

• UFO CASE REPORTS by Jenny Randles: This section likely details recent UFO sightings and investigations.
• UFO Sightings. PUFOIC Investigations by Eric Morris: This article focuses on UFO sightings investigated by the Plymouth UFO Investigation Centre (PUFOIC).
• Italian UFO Scene Updated by Edoardo Russo: Provides an overview of UFO activity and reports from Italy.
• A Variety of Cases and Theories. Report on the 1984-85 Lecture Programme by John Barrett: This report summarizes the cases and theories discussed during BUFORA's lecture program for the preceding year.
• Rendlesham Forest. The Sceptics Attack by Jenny Randles: A critical examination of the Rendlesham Forest incident, likely addressing skeptical viewpoints.
• Pre-1947 UFO Bulletin by Nigel Watson: An historical look at UFO reports and publications prior to 1947.
• Book Review/Letter to the Editor: Standard sections for reader feedback and reviews.
• 1985 Lecture Programme: Details of the upcoming lecture schedule.

Key Case Reports Detailed

Case 79-275: Aliens Over The Co-Op (Gleadless Town End, South Yorkshire)

Investigated by David Clarke, this report details an encounter experienced by Mrs J.F. in 1979. Mrs J.F., a ward assistant, reported seeing a classic inverted saucer, dull grey and metallic, hovering a few feet above a roof. The object, estimated to be 30ft in diameter, had a large red light at the bottom and a central "window" through which two human-like occupants in ice-blue suits were visible. They had long blond hair and appeared to be engaged with "machinery." The area was unusually quiet, exhibiting the "OZ factor." The witness's testimony is compared to the famous Ranton, Staffordshire sighting by Jessie Roestenberg in 1954, suggesting potential similarities and raising questions about time travel.

Case 8410: Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Investigated by David Pearson and Ken Phillips, this case involves a sighting on August 2nd, 1984, by Mr and Mrs W and their two children. While returning home near Stonehenge, they observed the sky turning golden and saw two orange/gold spheres, which were joined by others, forming a definite formation. The car's headlights dimmed. Later, they encountered a landed object described as a grey dome resting on the ground with a row of windows emitting orange/yellow light. The object was observed for about 5-6 minutes. The report discusses the "OZ factor" and psychological assessments of the witnesses, suggesting that military maneuvers on Salisbury Plain might be a partial explanation, but also leaving open the possibility of something more unusual.

Two UFO Sightings: Plymouth UFO Investigation Centre (PUFOIC)

Investigated by Eric Morris, this section details two sightings in the Ernesettle district of Plymouth.

First Sighting: On October 28th, 1983, Mr and Mrs Alan Northcott observed a light through their kitchen window. The light, described as strange and intense, was egg-shaped with three lights arranged in a triangle. The object descended and then reversed, disappearing behind trees. The witnesses estimated the object's closest distance to be 80 yards and its height 60ft. The weather was clear and cold. The report notes the unusual behavior of their deaf son prior to the sighting. PUFOIC investigated the case for six months and found no conventional explanation, placing it in their "UNIDENTIFIED" file.

Second Sighting: The article mentions a second case report in the same district of Plymouth, Whitleigh, which is linked by a 132Kv Grid Line to the Northcotts' location. Details of this second sighting are not provided in this excerpt.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around detailed UFO case reports, witness testimonies, and the investigative efforts of organizations like BUFORA and PUFOIC. The editorial stance appears to be one of serious, scientific inquiry into UFO phenomena, aiming to collect evidence and explore various theories, including the possibility of time travel and the influence of psychological factors. The articles often present detailed accounts of sightings, including descriptions of objects, occupants, and environmental conditions, while also acknowledging the need for corroborative evidence and exploring potential conventional explanations, such as military exercises. The publication aims to provide a platform for researchers and enthusiasts to share and analyze UFO-related information.

Title: UFO TIMES
Issue: 10
Volume: 1
Date: February 1985
Price: £1.50
Publisher: UFO TIMES
Country: United Kingdom
ISSN: 0264-7707

This issue of UFO TIMES, dated February 1985, focuses on UFO activity and research, with a significant portion dedicated to the "Italian UFO Scene Updated" by Edoardo Russo. The cover features this headline along with a graphic of a UFO and a cartoonist's depiction of the Italian Minister of Defence.

Whitleigh, Plymouth Sighting

The issue details a case from Whitleigh, Plymouth, Devon, which occurred on Sunday, February 13th, 1983, at 01:30 am. Mr and Mrs Smith, returning from a party, witnessed a "red fiery circular object" dropping rapidly from the sky. The object hovered near a lamp-post for approximately 30 seconds before shooting up and vanishing. The entire incident lasted about 45 seconds. The couple reported no noise or physiological effects, but noted a "peculiar" smell after the object vanished. Subsequent investigation by PUFOIC revealed an area of burnt, scorched grass at the base of the lamp-post, forming a near-complete semi-circle. The grass was dead and pale straw in colour. Radio-activity readings were normal. Local authorities and airports could offer no explanation. A similarity was noted with the Ernesettle incident due to a nearby 132kv grid line.

Italian UFO Scene Updated

Edoardo Russo reports on Italian ufology in 1984, noting an increase in media coverage and research despite a moderate number of sightings. Eighty-five sightings were filed by Centro Ufologico Nazionale as of January 1985, with numbers fluctuating in previous years. Two CE2 and 3 cases from October 9th, 1984, are highlighted.

Polcanto, Florence Case

At 3:30 am in Polcanto, near Florence, a housekeeper was awakened by a light and saw a dark human shape on a nearby hill with a torch-like beam. The object disappeared, followed by a blinding white light and a red sphere. The witness complained of red and irritated eyes. Three circular holes (10cm diameter, 3cm depth) were found in a 2m irregular triangle in the grass, which had been flattened. No radioactivity was recorded. A dog became distressed. The investigation was carried out by Pier Luigi Sani.

Prata Principato, Avellino Case

At 7:30 am on the same day, a peasant in Prata Principato, near Avellino, observed a 1.30m tall man in a brown "space suit" with a helmet and rucksack, holding a forked stick emitting blue sparks, near a hovering craft. The craft took off, leaving six conical holes in a rectangle, two large traces, and footprints. The traces remained hotter than the surrounding area for two days. The case was investigated by CUN investigator Umberto Telarico and the Italian police.

Other Italian Reports

"Flaps" of hovering lights with "booms" were reported in the north-eastern provinces of Veneto, Friuli, and Trentino in February 1984. In early December 1984, glowing lights with long trails overflew areas of north-western Italy. On December 5th, a bright oblong shape crossed from France and exploded with a violent noise and flash, causing "booms" recorded seismographically.

Research in Progress and Projects

The issue outlines three research projects that produced results in 1984: regional catalogues of reports compiled by local investigators, "Project Italy 3" (a list of Italian CE3 reports), and "TRACAT" (an updated reference list of Italian trace landing cases). Two new projects launched in 1984 include "Project Origins" (a survey of early UFO history in Italy) and "Project 64" (a micro-computer network for indexing Italian case reports).

Publications and Media

Several UFO journals faced publication issues. The CUN Field Investigators' Manual was published in December 1984. Two UFO books are mentioned: the Italian translation of Jacques Vallee's "Messengers of Deception" and a case history of abductions by Rino Di Stefano.

In 1984, CUN collected 450 newsclippings about UFOs, a marked increase. The CUN Congress in Palermo and Genoa, and official questions to the government regarding Ministry of Defence files, generated significant press interest. The Minister of Defence, Giovanni Spadolini, stated that UFO files were unclassified and contained no actual unidentified reports, dismissing a 1979 UFO/pilot encounter as a balloon. Newspapers, radio, and television devoted considerable space to the UFO debate.

Variety of Cases and Theories

Report on the 1984-85 Lecture Programme by John Barrett

Alan Godfrey Abduction Case: Manchester solicitor Harry Harris discussed the 1980 Alan Godfrey abduction case, presenting evidence that real space craft and abductors existed. Three police colleagues had also witnessed unidentified object lights before Godfrey's encounter. Tapes of Godfrey under hypnotic regression were shown, along with similar experiences of three Shropshire women. Godfrey predicted another encounter in 1990.

Regressive Hypnosis: Harris noted that while regressive hypnosis could be fallible, physiological indicators like pulse and blood pressure could help verify experiences. He dismissed the Alvin Lawson equation linking abduction with birth trauma, favouring a "nuts and bolts" craft explanation.

Linda's Abduction Experience: Harry introduced Linda, who, with her mother, experienced a time lapse while driving in January 1981. They saw a large hovering light, then a metal-structured object. Their car malfunctioned, and the car in front of them vanished. Linda later recalled a dream involving a white room, a blond man, and a dolphin, which Bud Hopkins suggested was a common "cover story" motif.

Discussion on Ufology's Direction: Harry expressed frustration at the lack of clear direction in ufology despite extensive data collection, questioning how to evaluate findings to shed light on the phenomenon.

Cynthia Hind's Lecture

Cynthia Hind, MUFON's African representative, spoke about sightings involving people from different cultural backgrounds, particularly in Southern Africa. She noted that reports from primitive people, who regarded strange lights as evil spirits, were similar to Western reports.

Fort Beaufort, South Africa Case (June 1972): A farm worker and owner observed a brilliant red light hovering above trees. The object emitted flames, changed colour, and appeared to respond to human voice. Nine unidentified imprints were found where the object disappeared.

Mutari, Zimbabwe Case (August 1981): Twenty labourers witnessed a large ball of light that rolled across lawns, moved down a tower, and burst into flames. Three figures, described as "shining" and silver, were seen. One labourer, Clifford Muchene, was pushed to the ground by their "force."

Other Southern African Cases: The Chinotti caves sightings (1983-84), partial destruction of a tennis court, and a disc sighting with two men floating down from it were mentioned. Hind also noted a UFO landing in an Ethiopian village for 13 days and a light descending into a lake in Nigeria.

Jenny Randles' Lectures

Government Cover-Up: Jenny Randles discussed government cover-ups, citing her work on the Rendlesham Forest case. She mentioned "Project Blue Book" and Ruppelt's concerns about cases being withheld from the project. She believed that government agencies possessed far more comprehensive files than UFO groups.

International Approach: Randles noted a relaxation in government attitudes towards UFOs in Australia, France, and the UK, but found that released files often lacked significant information. She highlighted French GEPAN's work and Spain's release of jet chase cases. She speculated that similar cases might exist in UK files but remain undisclosed. She also mentioned 15,000 UFO case files in the Kremlin and a new Russian research group.

UK Ministry of Defence: Cases in the UK came under DS8 of the Ministry of Defence, which had limited resources and staff. Despite collecting 1600 cases since 1980, they were passed off as LITS. Randles found it hard to believe that the Ministry's files were not more interesting than BUFORA's, which collected far fewer cases but included CE2-3-4 incidents.

Redirection of Effort: Randles suggested that government agencies could afford to ignore UFO groups due to the comprehensiveness of their own files and called for a redirection of effort to make these files public.

Jenny Randles and Dot Street on Rendlesham Forest: A lecture on the Rendlesham Forest case was discussed, including media treatment which was often dismissive. The incident was considered to have defence connotations, with possibilities of a missile malfunction or a real UFO. Tape transcripts from the investigation mentioned the word "pod," which Jenny Randles speculated was US military jargon for a weapon-carrying object. She also suggested a second landing might have been a staged event to test military personnel.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around detailed case investigations, particularly in Italy and Southern Africa, alongside discussions of potential government cover-ups and the challenges of ufological research. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of serious inquiry, presenting evidence from witness accounts, investigator reports, and research projects. There is a clear emphasis on the need for transparency from government bodies regarding UFO phenomena, as highlighted by the discussions on "Project Blue Book" and UK Ministry of Defence files. The issue also touches upon the psychological aspects of UFO experiences, such as hypnotic regression and the potential for manipulation of consciousness.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin covers a range of topics related to UFO phenomena, investigations, and lectures presented to the organization. The content spans discussions on specific incidents, theoretical explanations, and personal testimonies, reflecting a deep engagement with the subject matter.

Rendlesham Forest Incident and Related Investigations

The issue revisits the Rendlesham Forest incident, noting that investigators Jenny and Dot have found new witnesses in the Woodbridge area who report frantic military activity. The Ministry of Defence's attitude reportedly shifted from denial to grudging admission. Ian Ridpath's theory that the UFO was a lighthouse beam is dismissed as nonsensical. A mysterious 25-second super 8MM film, sent anonymously, showing a glowing object, is also discussed. The film, when magnified, showed no structure and was described as an "unidentified orange blob." The location of the film shoot is debated, with possibilities including the Isle of Wight, Hythe/Dymchurch, or Portsmouth, with the latter suggesting a military weapon test.

Jenny made a plea for the audience to contact their MPs regarding Rendlesham, and investigators offered taped material for review.

Abduction Phenomena and Psychological Interpretations

John Rimmer, editor of MAGONIA, delivered a lecture on alien abductions, exploring whether they are physical events or imaginary. He traced the abduction syndrome back to folklore and fairy tales, noting recurring features in modern reports like the solitary motorist and bright lights. Rimmer suggested that abductions might be linked to people driving on boring roads, leading to induced sensory deprivation, and that the phenomenon is coupled with the UFO enigma but totally unrelated. He argued that messages received during abductions are often uninspired and muddled, concerning nuclear warfare. He also pointed out errors in star map interpretations, such as the Zeta Reticuli double star issue.

Hilary Evans discussed the psychological aspects, comparing abductees to 16th-17th century witches claiming to have flown to Sabbaths, suggesting compensation for deprivation. She proposed that a real UFO event might be altered into a pseudo UFO event to confuse the abductee. The issue also notes that hypnotic subjects are susceptible to information provided before the session.

High Strangeness and Staged Events

Albert Budden spoke on "high strangeness," proposing that UFO events are purposely staged and that individuals are consciously manipulated. This concept generated lively discussion.

Ecology and Alien Interest

Mary Corr gave a short talk on ecology, suggesting that "aliens" might be monitoring the planet's resources.

Slide Show and Historical UFOs

Lionel Beer presented a lecture with slides covering the background of ufology and BUFORA, including illustrations from Ezekiel's wheel to the Kaikora lights.

Hessdalen Lights and Skepticism

Hilary Evans critiqued a researcher who claimed UFOs do not exist, arguing that not everything in the sky is instantly identifiable. She discussed the Hessdalen Valley lights controversy, where NIVFO attributes sightings to reflections while UFO NORGE investigates. Evans's own observations in Norway led her to find NIVFO's claims untenable, as lights were seen in remote areas devoid of man-made artifacts. She suggested a link to piezo-electricity due to the area's geology but cautioned against dismissing explanations out of hand. Evans questioned whether skeptics were being as illogical as some ufologists.

Ministry of Defence Perspective on UFOs

Ralph Noyes, a former Ministry of Defence official, discussed the challenges of responding to UFOs due to their transient and anomalous nature. He stated that the official consensus did not view UFOs as a national security threat and was unaware of any special investigation committees. He suggested that a cover-up would be too complex to maintain. Noyes believed that governments might be as bemused by UFOs as the public, and that sightings could be natural phenomena, similar to rainbows or auroras, which are now understood. He urged ufologists to study natural phenomena closely and not solely focus on cover-up theories.

The Albert Burtoo Abduction Case

A detailed account is given of Albert Burtoo's abduction experience on August 12th, 1983, near the Basingstoke Canal. At age 79, Burtoo encountered two small figures in leaf-green, contour-moulded cover-alls with black visors. They led him to a smooth, burnished octagonal object, approximately 40-45ft across. Inside, he was scanned and told he was too old and infirm for their purpose. Burtoo described the craft's interior, the aliens' appearance, and the smell within. He noted the object's rapid ascent and disappearance. He recounted telling two mounted policemen about the incident. The case was investigated by SIGAP's Omar Fowler and Tim Good, who eventually became convinced of its truthfulness. Burtoo maintained that the experience was real and that the "aliens" were friendly.

Psychic Quests and Historical Background

Andy Collins discussed "psychic quests," including his work on the greenstone affair and the discovery of artifacts. He highlighted the use of psychically derived information to investigate ancient sites and retrieve objects. Collins also touched upon Norse and Celtic legends, medieval exploits, the Arthurian legends, and the work of John Dee and Edward Kelly, mentioning psychic investigations around Glastonbury.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the persistent mystery of UFO phenomena, the challenges of investigation, the psychological dimensions of alleged encounters, and the official (often dismissive) stance of government bodies. There is a clear emphasis on witness testimony, with detailed case studies like the Albert Burtoo abduction. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various theories and evidence while encouraging critical thinking and further investigation, particularly through organizations like BUFORA. The publication aims to inform its readers about ongoing research and significant cases within the ufological community.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated July 1985 (Vol. 16, No. 4), focuses heavily on the Rendlesham Forest incident, presenting a critical perspective on skeptical explanations and highlighting ongoing investigations. It also touches upon psychic research, historical UFO sightings, and book reviews.

Psychic Investigations and Artefacts

The issue begins by referencing the resurgence of psychic questioning in the late 19th and 20th centuries, mentioning figures like Madame Blavatsky and Wellesley Tudor Pole. Harry Price's research into the paranormal happenings at Borley Rectory is noted, including the discovery of the remains of Mary Laird. Andy discusses the work of Margot Williams, who possesses a rapport with ghosts and can 'tune in' to artefacts, describing objects as 'psychic micro-chips' containing the essence of events. Andy's own work with Earth Quest and psychic Bernard Gowing is mentioned, detailing their book 'The Knights of Danbury' and their discovery of an 18th-century French monastic crucifix in Glastonbury.

UFO Links and Earth Questing

A question and answer session addresses the validity of claims made by Mrs. Williams and Bligh Bond, with Andy affirming their genuineness. The connection between earth questing and ufology is explored, with the assertion that psychics who have had UFO experiences are more open to the psychic experience. The case of a Swedish abductee with increased psychic awareness is cited. Dowsing is presented as one form of questing, capable of unearthing more than just water. The concept of 'site guardians' is introduced, emphasizing the need for a specific approach when dealing with them, as desecrators of ancient sites often face misfortune.

Stone Memory

Andy posits that inanimate objects like stones, rocks, wood, and plastic possess a 'memory' of events, which can be released by someone experiencing similar emotions, akin to a tape recorder playing back the mood of a site. He suggests that ancient peoples used this knowledge to protect their sites or encourage trusted individuals.

BUFORA Council's Thanks

The BUFORA Council expresses gratitude to lecturers for their contributions and to members and guests for their participation. Special thanks are extended to Robin Lindsey, the librarian, for attending lectures despite ill-health and recording them. Ken Phillips, the Training Officer, is planning the 1985-86 Lecture Programme and solicits suggestions from members.

Rendlesham Forest: The Sceptics Attack

This section, authored by Jenny Randles, critically examines the Rendlesham Forest incident, which occurred in December 1980. BUFORA's investigation, involving Dot Street and Brenda Butler, is highlighted. The article critiques the publicity surrounding the case, particularly that from the News of the World, and the book 'Skycrash' which contextualized the event. The ongoing investigation is emphasized, with new breakthroughs continually emerging.

Down in the Forest

Key points from the investigation are presented:
1. The tape recording made by Colonel Charles Halt on the second night of the events is discussed. While it appears to record officers at the site of physical traces, the 'UFO' return segment is suspected to be a deliberate fabrication, possibly to control the narrative if the landing became public.
2. Prime Air Force witnesses, Sergeant Adrian Bustinza and Airman John Burroughs, have been interviewed. Their testimonies corroborate existing information and suggest a greater involvement of British civilian police than previously realized. Their accounts also support the suspicion about the authenticity of the Halt tape.
3. New civilian witnesses have been traced, including one near the East Gate of Woodbridge during a base alert, and another eyewitness to the UFO. The investigation continues with the aim of finding the truth, acknowledging that while a UFO landing is a primary hypothesis, other explanations like experimental devices are also considered.

Not Taken Seriously

The article criticizes the lack of publicity for the book 'Skycrash' and notes three negative references to the Rendlesham case in the British press, which conveniently avoided mentioning the book or investigators. These references are seen as attempts to dismiss the case, particularly in influential circles.

Not Fiction

Jenny Randles refutes claims made by a Sunday Times journalist in the book 'Lies! Damned Lies!', which dismisses the Rendlesham case as 'fiction' and promotes the lighthouse theory. Randles asserts that their documented evidence, including Ministry of Defence and USAF letters and witness interviews, proves the case was not fiction and that the article is libellous. The article mentions the difficulty in pursuing legal action due to financial constraints.

Towards the Lighthouse

This section addresses Ian Ridpath's lighthouse hypothesis, presented in The Guardian. The article argues that Ridpath conveniently ignored objections to his theory and BUFORA's investigations. Ridpath's response, stating that he was not obligated to mention BUFORA or their arguments, is quoted.

Naughty Games

This part of the article criticizes Ridpath's handling of facts, particularly his attempt to switch the date of the incident to the 26th to support the meteor theory. It dismisses the idea that airmen would mistake a lighthouse beam for a UFO and highlights the apparent lack of understanding of radiation by the USAF. The promotion of Charles Halt to full colonel and Base Commander is questioned, given the alleged errors in his report. The article also notes that previous base commanders insisted the event was real and unexplained.

Brilliant Flashing Lights

Jenny Randles outlines objections to Ridpath's lighthouse theory, which Ian Ridpath allegedly failed to address:
(1) Civilian witnesses were positioned where the lighthouse would be invisible, yet they and airmen saw the object. Trigonometry suggests the lighthouse could not have moved as implied.
(2) Airmen at the East Gate could see the lighthouse beam, indicating they were aware of its presence. The argument that they would report two brilliant lights is dismissed, as witnesses stated they did not mention the lighthouse because it did not occur to them to do so.
(3) The continued search for the UFO by USAF personnel for weeks suggests they were not fooled by a lighthouse misidentification. Halt's report to the Ministry of Defence in January 1981, despite potential explanations, indicates a belief in a strange event.
(4) The described UFO shape does not resemble a lighthouse beam. Witnesses reported the object on the ground, which is inconsistent with a lighthouse.

Ian Ridpath's response to being questioned about his article is quoted, where he states he was not obligated to mention BUFORA or their arguments.

Pre-1947 UFO Bulletin

Nigel Watson reviews the newsletter of the Swedish group Archives for UFO Research (AFU), highlighting articles on historical UFO research, including apparitions surrounding Mary Jones, and mystery airships and ghost fliers.

Mystery Airships and Ghost Fliers

Anders Liljegren's work comparing the 1896-97 USA wave of airship sightings with the Scandinavian 1933-37 ghost flier wave is discussed. The tendency for right-wing newspapers to credit these reports while left-wing papers dismissed them is noted, similar to British press reactions to phantom airship waves. The sightings primarily involved nocturnal lights, with some close encounters. Liljegren points out that the USA and Scandinavian waves began in the west and spread east, unlike the British waves.

Liljegren's plans for sorting data on Scandinavian ghost flier sightings are mentioned, drawing on access to War Archive documents. The meticulous nature of these reports, often involving police or military investigation, is highlighted.

What is it? More Reports About The Light In The Sky

A report from the Cambria Daily Leader (January 30th, 1913) details sightings of a mystery airship or strange light in Mid Wales, near Aberystwyth. The object was seen flying by night, heading out over Cardigan Bay before turning south. The report notes that no one saw it ascend or descend, and its origin and destination are unknown. Similar sightings were reported in Liverpool on the same night, raising questions about the object's movement and the reliability of the reports.

Books

A Secret Prophecy by Ralph Noyes

John Spencer reviews Ralph Noyes' book 'A Secret Prophecy,' an ex-Ministry of Defence official's work on the UFO phenomenon. Spencer finds the book's style more suited to psychological drama than science fiction, though it is effective. He notes the book's political undertones and its intriguing theory that alien visitations stem from a race that 'got left behind' when mammals overtook dinosaurs. However, Spencer criticizes the book for its lack of seriousness regarding the 'behind closed Whitehall doors' aspect, which he believes should be a key claim given Noyes' background. The book's originality is praised, blending science fiction with a unique style. Spencer concludes that the book is love it or hate it, but it provokes a strong reaction.

Letter to the Editor

Jenny Randles, Director of Investigations for BUFORA, responds to a letter from Steuart Campbell, who questioned the purpose of her book 'The Pennine UFO Mystery.' Randles defends the book, stating that while she never claimed the Pennine area was particularly special, it does have a high incidence of UFO close encounters, which can be observed by studying the records. She suggests that the question of whether this is an inherent factor, has sociological bases, or is a function of something else remains open.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the critical examination of UFO incidents, particularly the Rendlesham Forest case, by challenging skeptical explanations and presenting investigative findings. There is a strong emphasis on the importance of rigorous investigation and the presentation of evidence against what the authors perceive as dismissive or biased reporting. The role of psychics and paranormal phenomena is explored, alongside historical UFO sightings, suggesting a broad approach to understanding unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of defending the seriousness of UFO research against what it views as attempts to discredit or trivialize the subject, particularly in the mainstream press.

This issue of the BUFORA Bulletin, dated June 29th, 1985, features a significant debate on the methodology and philosophy of UFO investigation. The core of the discussion revolves around the skeptical stance of an investigator named Steuart, who claims to have explained all cases within his 12-year career, contrasting with a more open-minded approach that acknowledges the possibility of genuinely unexplained phenomena.

Investigator's Perspectives

The article delves into the differing viewpoints of UFO investigators. One perspective, represented by Steuart, posits that all UFO sightings are either misperceptions or hoaxes, leading to the conclusion that ufologists are wasting their time. The author of this piece, however, finds this extrapolation unwise and personally interprets some cases differently, noting that some reports remain unexplained due to 'insufficient data,' which they view as an admission of investigative failure.

The author emphasizes the subjective nature of investigation, stating that an investigator's personal attitudes can cloud objectivity. If an investigator does not 'believe' in certain phenomena, they might dismiss witness accounts as 'imaginative' or 'hallucinations.' The author argues that a UFO report is as dependent on the investigator's mind as on the witness's experience, and that at this stage, with insufficient data, no one can definitively say which interpretation is correct.

Scientific Standards and Possibilities

The discussion extends to the broader scientific context. While acknowledging Steuart's confidence, the author expresses concern, particularly regarding his dismissal of time travel as impossible. The author notes that most physicists and philosophers do not share such a rigid view, and while not suggesting UFOs are time-ships, they argue that the concept cannot be dismissed outright based on current knowledge. Similarly, the author remains doubtful about the Extraterrestrial Hypothesis (ETH) and unconvinced about an alien component to the UFO mystery, but stresses that science currently argues there are no firm grounds for belief, not that they are impossible.

The Value of Data and Ongoing Research

The author reflects on the value of UFO research, even if the findings are not immediately understood or applied. They believe that the data collected will prove useful to someone, somewhere, in the future, even if that application is in a field of science not yet conceived. The author's own research is motivated by a belief that Steuart is wrong, and they encourage readers to form their own opinions.

BUFORA Lecture Programme and Publications

This issue also includes a detailed lecture programme for BUFORA meetings held at the London Business School for the remainder of 1985. These lectures are scheduled for the first Saturday of each month, beginning at 6:30 pm, with an entrance fee for members and non-members. Specific lecture topics and speakers are listed for September, October, and December, with one date awaiting confirmation.

Additionally, the bulletin advertises several BUFORA publications available at special rates, including 'Close Encounter at Livingston,' 'UFO Investigator,' 'Congress 79,' and 'Vehicle Interference Project.' It also mentions the availability of 21st Anniversary Memorabilia, including leaflets and special red badges.

A new publication, 'Science and the UFOs' by Jenny Randles and Peter Warrington, is announced for later in the summer. This book is described as the first survey of how science has tackled the UFO phenomenon, challenging scientists and investigators, and illustrating how laymen can contribute to the inquiry.

Offer for Proof of the Paranormal

An intriguing news item reports that a group of scientists has offered a total of £240,000 for anyone who can demonstrate proof of extrasensory perception or other paranormal phenomena under controlled conditions. The offer is made by members of the Committee for the Investigation of the Paranormal, with an American, Phillip J. Klass, expressing confidence that the money will not be claimed.

Editorial Stance and Contributions

The editorial notes clarify that the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA) does not hold or express corporate views, and contributions reflect only the views of the editor or authors. It also provides guidelines for submitting material for publication.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the critical examination of UFO investigation methods, the balance between skepticism and open-mindedness, the role of scientific rigor, and the potential for future understanding of unexplained phenomena. The editorial stance is one of encouraging open inquiry and the collection of data, while acknowledging the subjective elements inherent in any investigation. The bulletin serves as a platform for members to share research, discuss theories, and stay informed about BUFORA's activities and related publications.