Folklore Frontiers - No 025

Magazine Overview

Title: Folklore Frontiers
Issue: No. 25
Date: April 1995
Publisher: Paul Screeton
Focus: Folklore, folklife, contemporary beliefs, urban myths, social trends.

The Diary

The editor, Paul Screeton, welcomes readers to issue 25, noting that it contains a wealth of material. He briefly references a previous issue's mention of Spike Milligan and his apology to his child, James, for not being included in a TV program. The diary also introduces controversies surrounding Robert the Bruce and a "gay" ghost, alongside the results of a 1994 survey. Screeton expresses his opinion that this issue is the best yet. He highlights the "SPOTLIGHT" feature on trainspotters, a hobby he shares and calls "ferroequinologist." Future issues are planned to cover topics like "boozing, breasts, and sub-editors." Two humorous quotes are included: one from The People about "Transvestism is a cheaper hobby than golf, and more socially acceptable than trainspotting," and another from The Guardian about a train delay caused by fox hounds.

The 'Gay' Ghost Scam

This section recounts a story from Eden Street, Horden, concerning a ghost that haunted a miner and his wife in 1967. Despite the couple's reluctance to discuss the events, they called in the local vicar for an exorcism, which proved unsuccessful. The couple eventually moved out, stating that "ghostly presences" had made themselves felt. The story is attributed to Sarah Hapgood's "World's Great Ghost and Poltergeist Stories." The narrative then shifts to The Mail newspaper in Hartlepool, where a reporter, McCusker, wrote a story based on an account by Ronnie Pratt. The deputy editor published this as a Page 3 lead, describing how a former pitman claimed a spirit had haunted him for 37 years.

Ex-miner says ghost is ruining his life

This article details the story of Ronnie Pratt, a 55-year-old gay ex-miner from Hartlepool, who claimed a jealous ghost had been chasing away his boyfriends for years. Pratt stated the ghost had been with him since he was eight and had followed him to seven different houses. He recounted an incident where the ghost caused lights to go out and made his former boyfriend feel shivery, leading the boyfriend to leave him. Pratt also mentioned that the ghost hadn't been exorcised, despite a priest's planned visit, and that he felt icy cold when the ghost was near. He also noted that the video player would switch off when the ghost was present. Pratt expressed his openness about being gay, stating he had lived a lie for 28 years.

Spook keeps stealing my boyfriends, says gay man

This piece, by Peter McCusker, further elaborates on Ronnie Pratt's claims. Pratt alleged that when he got a new man, the ghost would return and chase him away. He described the ghost as a "good ghost" and his "friend." Pratt, who worked in the Horden pit for 28 years and had a 28-year marriage resulting in two children, explained how the ghost spooked his former boyfriend. The article notes that the ghost's alleged haunting of Pratt's house caused lights to go out and made his boyfriend feel shivery. Pratt also mentioned that the ghost hadn't been named but was considered a "good ghost" by him. He revealed that he felt icy cold when the ghost was around and that the video would switch off. Pratt stated he was not afraid to come out as gay, having lived a lie for 28 years.

The "Rent Boy" Scam

Following Pratt's story, the editorial department expected significant media attention, but the story was met with silence. McCusker described the situation as "a complete nonsense. In fact, a total pack of lies." He explained that Pratt had initially approached the office to tell a story about a "rent boy" who had allegedly stolen his money. When this story wasn't pursued, Pratt returned with the "gay ghost" story, which McCusker recognized as having more media appeal. After the story was published, Pratt contacted The Mail to claim it was all lies concocted for publicity, with his logic being erratic and related to flushing out the "rent boy." The Press Complaints Commission dismissed a complaint from Pratt's family because Pratt himself had approached The Mail.

Mick Goss on Gay Ghosts

Mick Goss shares a similar bizarre tale from Reveille (9/12/77) about an apparently gay male ghost haunting a gravel path in Bath, near Gay Street. The ghost, described as having white hair tied back with a ribbon, appeared only to men and was seen by the deputy mayor of Miami, Scott Harris, and his wife during a tour of Bath. Mr. Harris's description matched previous sightings.

Newslines

This section presents a collection of brief news items:

• Road workers in Sussex altered a sign to the River Uck due to graffiti.
• The 50th anniversary of Anne Frank's death is noted, with a mention of doubts about the veracity of "The Diary of Anne Frank" and a tale about a stage version where the audience shouted "She's in the attic" when the Gestapo burst in.
• A claim is made that Michael Jackson's wife is an imposter, with Professor Haakan Borglund of Lund University suggesting a double was substituted for security reasons.
• Mark Brewster of the Midland Racing Pigeons Group suggests that mobile phone signals interfere with racing pigeons' homing devices, a claim denied by Vodaphone.

Anoraknophobia

This article by Paul Screeton and Peter McCusker explores the phenomenon of "anorakophobia," the fear or disdain directed at trainspotters. The authors question why trainspotters are often ridiculed, citing a Sunday Times article calling them "our worst nightmare." They acknowledge the existence of various types of trainspotters, some of whom may exhibit eccentric behavior, but also note that many are respectable and well-educated individuals. The negative public perception is attributed to comedians like Jasper Carrott and tabloid jibes. The article mentions criticisms from Dr. Neil Cossons of the National Railway Museum and Ian Allan, who described spotters as "utter bores."

A half-naked girl on the line...

This sub-section details an incident on the South Devon Railway where a scantily-clad female was found tied to the track and being filmed by another girl. The incident occurred after the last train had run, and the works train had to be delayed to untie the girl, posing a serious risk. The Sun newspaper embellished the story.

A stage you go through

This section discusses actors portraying trainspotters, including James Holmes in "Anorak of Fire" and Jack Marsden in a pub comedy routine. Marsden was mugged by five louts armed with a knife and a plank, escaping with injuries.

Spotter varieties

The article lists different types of trainspotters: number crunchers, haulage bashers, and track bashers. It notes that trainspotting is pursued by many celebrities, including Chris Rea, Mike Read, Jim Bowen, Rod Stewart, Elton John, Phil Collins, Justin Hayward, Captain Sensible, and Michael Palin. Pete Waterman is mentioned as owning Waterman Railways, a former InterCity special trains unit.

The psychological aspect

Dr. Uta Frith is cited as editing a book on "a devastating handicap," suggesting that trainspotting can be fertile ground for people with Asperger's syndrome. The article notes that not all trainspotters have the syndrome, but some exhibit obsessive interests, such as carriage light fittings.

Platform souls

This section features brief profiles of individuals associated with trainspotting:

• Kenneth Clarke: Former Chancellor of the Exchequer, who ran a school trainspotting club and had a "fanatical interest in steam engines." He now explores medieval ruins with his historian wife.
• Chris Donald: Viz comic editor, who viewed becoming a trainspotter as a turning point in his life, meeting "quiet, nice, well-behaved kids."
• Richard Madeley: TV presenter who reacted negatively to a caller's request to "steal me a bottle of wine," calling them "anoraks."
• Steven Norris: Transport Minister, who spoke of "dreadful human beings" found in public transport.
• Paul Merton: Humorist who suggested carnivorous plants could be planted at railway platforms to eat trainspotters.

Scornmongers

This section lists nicknames for various locomotive classes, such as "Chopprs" for 20s and "Rats" for 25s. It also mentions railway photographers and their noted initials.

Gratuitous insults

A collection of derogatory quotes about trainspotters from various publications, including "Women Only," "D. Sport," and "The Sun." One quote describes trainspotters as "runtish" and wearing "BHS anorak."

The Lancashire Cuckold

This section presents a 17th-century ballad titled "The Lancashire Cuckold: OR, THE Country Parish-Clark betray'd by a Conjurer's Inchanted Chamber-pot." The ballad tells the story of a farmer who consults a cunning man to discover if he is a cuckold. The conjurer devises a plan involving a charm that makes anyone who touches a particular chamber-pot stick fast. The farmer's wife, her lover (the parish clerk), and later a tailor all become ensnared by the charm, leading to a public dance through the town. The story concludes with the farmer demanding a hundred pounds from the clerk to release him, and they all end up at the ale-house.

Prairie thrills for cowboys in panties

This article discusses macho cowboys in Canada's Wild West who engage in secret transvestism annually, dressing in women's clothing for "wedding ceremonies." Michael Taft, a college professor researching folklore traditions, states this is a well-established tradition among rural communities in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, dating back to the 1830s. The cowboys play out scripts full of sex jokes and puns.

The Xperts

This section features a comic strip with characters Rodney and Vicki, and a brief mention of a "Ninja Train-spotters" who "waited patiently."

Robert the Bruce - Essex-Man

This article by Mick Goss challenges the traditional view of Robert the Bruce as a purely Scottish hero, stating he was born in Essex, England. Goss argues that while the "Stuck Couple" story from Swaziland was previously discussed, the Bruce legend also has folkloric elements. He points out that Robert the Bruce, despite being a symbol of Scottish independence, was born outside Chelmsford, Essex. The article delves into the historical debate, citing various sources and opinions on his birthplace, including claims from "authoritative writings" and the "Complete Peerage." It also touches on the motif of hiding in a cave with the assistance of a spider, a common folklore theme.

A bite of the other

This section contains two brief, sensationalized anecdotes:

• Carlos Cesaro: A man who suffered severe injuries when his wife had an epileptic fit during a sex session, causing her jaw to lock and clamp onto his penis.
• Assen, Holland: A couple ended up in the hospital after the wife had an epileptic fit during oral sex, causing her jaw to lock, and the husband retaliated by hitting her with a frying pan.

Just time for a quick bite

This brief item reiterates the story of a couple in Assen, Holland, who required hospital treatment after the wife had an epileptic fit during oral sex, causing her jaw to lock and trap her partner.

Robert the Bruce - Essex-Man (Continued)

The article continues the discussion on Robert the Bruce's birthplace, noting that while some sources claim he was born in Scotland (Lochmaben Castle or Turnberry), others, particularly from Essex, assert he was born at Writtle, Essex. The author, an Essex man married to a Scot, expresses indifference to the exact birthplace but acknowledges the strong feelings involved. He highlights that the Bruce legend, particularly the story of hiding in a cave with a spider's web, is recognized as folklore and not taken as serious historical fact. The article concludes by suggesting that the debate over Bruce's birthplace might stem from a desire to maintain the belief that nationality is solely determined by birthplace and that he fought exclusively for Scottish independence.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of folklore, urban myths, and unusual social phenomena. There's a clear interest in sensationalized or controversial stories, often presented with a blend of journalistic reporting and a touch of humor or skepticism. The editorial stance appears to be broad-minded and open to a wide range of topics, from paranormal accounts to historical debates and quirky human behavior. The magazine seems to enjoy debunking or questioning sensational claims, as seen in the "Gay Ghost Scam" and the discussion around Ronnie Pratt's story. There's also a recurring element of lighthearted mockery, particularly directed at subcultures like trainspotters, while still acknowledging their existence and sometimes even defending them against excessive ridicule.

This issue of The Sun, dated Thursday, October 27, 1994, features a prominent headline "R.I.P. TO MAN WHO GAVE US WACKY WORLD" and a lead article about Robert the Bruce. The magazine includes a variety of articles, book reviews, and quirky news items.

Robert the Bruce - Hart-Man

The article by Paul Screeton explores the origins and motivations of Robert the Bruce. It questions the traditional narrative of him being solely a Scottish hero, suggesting his actions were primarily driven by familial interests and claims to land ownership. The author posits that Robert the Bruce may have been born in Hart, County Durham, England, as there is no definitive evidence for his birthplace elsewhere. The piece highlights that Scottish nobility, like the Bruces, often held estates in both Scotland and England. Robert the Bruce's claim to the Scottish throne was challenged by the English king, and his earlier feudal loyalty to the English Crown is noted. The concept of 'folkloreismus' is introduced to explain the tendency to create national heroes based on desired identities rather than historical accuracy. The article touches upon the legend of the spider inspiring Bruce during his struggles and mentions his eventual victory at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, which secured his claim to the Scottish throne.

Wacky World Stories

The issue pays tribute to John Kerr, The Sun's legendary Italian correspondent, who died at the age of 60. Kerr was known for his bizarre and humorous stories. His real name was Fred Pye, a former London copper who moved to Italy. His career included reporting on unusual events such as a host whose guests were arrested for eating spaghetti laced with poison, a nun secretly married 15 times, a husband who paraded his naked wife, and a neighbour who shot dead a man for playing the piano too loudly. Kerr's career also involved collecting photographs of a man being crucified by friends in an Easter prank.

Other Quirky News Items

• Several short, unusual news items are presented:
• Doggy Disaster: A student, Terry Cahill, smuggled his girlfriend into his empty family home for his 18th birthday, only to be discovered by his family when they answered the phone.
• War Hero Had Shell Stuck Up His Bum: An unexploded anti-aircraft shell was found in the backside of an old RAF officer, requiring surgery.
• Party Trick Cops Crooks: Sheffield police invited a gang of crooks to a party, where they were subsequently arrested.
• Stripper Dies in Cake: A stripper named Candi Stryper suffocated inside a giant iced cake at a stag night after guests became too drunk to remember her.
• Magic Lotto: Superstitious Neapolitans bet on numbers after rumours of a man coming back to life, which later proved false.

Book Reviews

• The magazine includes several book reviews:
• Urban Myths Unplugged by Phil Healy & Rick Glanvill: This book explores the nature, evolution, and popularity of friend-of-a-friend tales, covering categories like preserved saints, animal stories, and modern legends. The reviewer notes some tales are suspect.
• Histrionics by Geoffrey Regan: A collection of historical anecdotes and stories, described as having good and indifferent moments, covering various topics and historical figures.
• The Baby Train & Other Lusty Urban Legends by Jan Harold Brunvand: A collection of legends, recommended for its entertainment value.
• King Arthur and the Grail Quest by John Matthews: The reviewer expresses skepticism about Matthews' reworkings of Grail tales, finding them unoriginal.
• The Art of Celtia by Courtney Davis: The reviewer likes Davis' work but is critical of Sir George Trevelyan.
• Twelve Channels of the I Ching by Myles Seabrook: An updated version of the ancient Chinese method of divination, presented as simplified and intriguing.
• The Green Knight by Iris Murdoch: A haunting story reviving Celtic and mediaeval legends, focusing on Professor Lucas Graffe's mysterious disappearance and reappearance.
• Napoleon's Book of Fate edited by Michael Colmer: An adaptation of an ancient oracle for everyday use, offering 1,000 answers to 32 of Napoleon's specific questions.
• New Worlds 4 edited by David Garnett: The final volume in a series of short stories, featuring various authors and themes, including 'spoof' letters from a botanist and tales of transgenic hazelwood.

Country Matters

• This section features several short articles:
• Parish Pump by Tristan Davies: Discusses foxes causing carnage on a farm and a humorous anecdote about a farmer's llama bonding too closely with his sheep.
• Mystery of the Duke and 100 vanishing dogs by Tracey Harrison: Reports on a rumour that the Duke of Windsor had 100 clumber spaniels shot because one urinated on his trousers during a shooting party. Historians and Buckingham Palace have found no evidence to support this.
• Farmer's Diary: A brief anecdote about a black Conservative's witty response to an anti-slavery protestor.

Other Sections

• Letters: A reader, Gillian Bevan, shares a story about her husband's humorous misunderstanding of a question about 'Secateurs?' as 'Non sequiturs?' when speaking to a comedian.
• Stop Press: Notes that space ran out for more book and magazine reviews, and some items were held over from a 1994 newspaper survey.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently features a blend of sensationalist, quirky, and often humorous news, alongside historical anecdotes and book reviews. The editorial stance appears to favour light-hearted, sometimes sensational, content, with a particular interest in unusual events, folklore, and celebrity gossip. There is a clear emphasis on entertaining the reader with 'wacky' stories and debunking or questioning traditional narratives, as seen in the Robert the Bruce article. The inclusion of book reviews suggests an aim to provide a broader cultural context, though often filtered through the magazine's characteristic tone.