Lantern - No 36

Magazine Overview

Title: LANTERN
Issue: WINTER 1981
Volume: 10th year of publication
Publisher: BORDERLINE SCIENCE INVESTIGATION GROUP
Country: UK
Price: £1.50

This issue of LANTERN, a quarterly magazine of East Anglian mysteries and curiosities, marks the beginning of its tenth year of publication. The editor, Ivan A.W. Bunn, apologizes for the late appearance due to Christmas holidays and unforeseen family circumstances. The magazine adopts a new 'mini' format, which will continue with an emphasis on illustrations and graphics. Contributions are welcomed, with a focus on items having East Anglian connections.

The Old Man of Hopton

The main feature of this issue is the continuation of the saga of 'The Old Man of Hopton', described as the most interesting phenomenon in the area. The article delves into the death of William Balls, a rural postman who died on January 2, 1899, exploring newspaper reports of his death and inquest. The author, Ivan Bunn, attempts to connect Balls' life and death to the sightings of the 'Old Man of Hopton' ghost on the A12 road.

Balls was 40 years old at the time of his death, living in Gorleston with his wife and family. He had a history of pneumonia, leaving him with a cavity in his left lung. His doctor had advised him to rest, but Balls reportedly insisted on fulfilling his duty. The Sub-Postmaster of Gorleston noted that Balls' work had been heavy, especially in the last three years with increased deliveries.

Official records indicate Balls' round was about 16 miles, with a maximum mail weight of 35lbs. His father recalled that during the Christmas deliveries of 1898, his son's load was sometimes more than he could carry. A fellow postman described Balls as being in his usual health on the morning of his death but appearing quiet and 'very queer'.

The article compares the witness descriptions of the 'Old Man of Hopton' with what is known of William Balls. While a contemporary description or photograph of Balls is unavailable, the article explores reasons why an apparition might be seen repeatedly in one area: association with the area during life, or involvement in a traumatic incident. Balls' family lived in Hopton, and he had extensive associations with the area through his family and his 22-year career as a rural postman.

It is suggested that the figure might be reliving something done frequently during life, and Balls' dedication to his job, even when unwell, is highlighted. The article notes that the 'old man' is often described as 'hunched' over and appearing to 'plod' slowly, with an 'ashen face and cold look', which could align with a sick and weary Balls.

Witness accounts of the 'Old Man of Hopton' are presented, including that of Andrew Cutajar, who reported seeing a 'grey mist' resolve into a tall man in a long coat and boots on the A12 road. Cutajar's car reportedly passed through the figure, causing him to lose control. Another witness, Mr. J. Ling, reported seeing a figure crouching and waving its arms on the same stretch of road in 1937.

Possible natural explanations for the sightings are discussed, including shadows from bushes, a heron nicknamed 'Charlie Farnsbarns', and columns of mist. However, the article notes that these explanations do not fully account for the repeated sightings in the same location.

UFO News

This section reports a lack of local UFO reports in recent months. It mentions the Woodbridge CE111 case, which received local television coverage, but no new witnesses have been found. Jenny Randles is noted as running the investigation side of BUFORA. The editor expresses hope that Randles will share her knowledge. An article on the Woodbridge case is also planned for the magazine 'Earthlink'.

A specific UFO sighting is detailed: on Saturday, October 3rd, 1981, a 'mysterious light' was seen over Lowestoft. Initially appearing as a bright yellow ball, it was later accompanied by two more yellow lights. The object was identified as a Fairchild Republic AIO Thunderbolt, a type of aircraft from U.S. airbases at Bentwaters or Woodbridge. The article explains that these aircraft, due to their shape, slow speed, and unusual lights, often generate UFO reports.

Notes and Queries

This section features several short items:

• No.87: Stones: Discusses the 'Witches Stones' in Belle Vue Park, Lowestoft, presenting an engraving from circa 1800 as the oldest known picture of the stones.
• No.88: Forteana: Reports on a maid at Westley Hall, Bury St. Edmunds, who found half an inch of broken needle in her lower jaw, which she stated had entered her foot a year prior.
• No.89: Funnel: Mentions a local resident's claim of a 'secret tunnel' from Oxnead Hall, Norfolk, to the Parish church, as reported by Radio Norfolk.

East Anglian Haunts

This new series begins with a focus on St. Edmund's Church at Thurne, Norfolk. According to James Wentworth Day, a ghostly light has been seen at the top of the church tower, historically used to signal to St. Benet's Abbey during times of illness. A circular hole in the tower wall is conjectured to have been used for signaling. The series promises to explore more legends from St. Benet's Abbey in future issues.

Exchange Magazines

A list of various magazines related to UFOs, earth mysteries, and paranormal subjects is provided, including their contact details and subscription information.

Stonepix

This section features 'The Harleston Stone' (Grid Ref: TM(156)246834), a black, three-foot square boulder in Harleston, Norfolk. It discusses its alleged Roman origins and traditions related to 'Herolfs Stone' and 'Heraldstone', and its connection to King Harold.

Alleged Witchcraft at Lowestoft

A historical report from The Lowestoft Journal (21/5/1891) details a court case involving Charlotte Cook and Hannah Larham, accusing Cook of using threats and witchcraft. The case appears to involve a dispute between neighbors, with accusations of pouring paraffin and using witchcraft.

Just a Thought

A quote from Reginald Scot (1541-1599) is presented: "The daily use and practise of medicine taketh away all admiration of the wonderful effects of the same. Many other things of less weight, being more secret and rare, seem more miraculous."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine maintains a focus on local mysteries, paranormal phenomena, and historical curiosities within East Anglia. The editorial stance appears to be one of open investigation and reporting, encouraging reader participation and offering a platform for diverse viewpoints on unexplained events. There is a clear interest in connecting historical events and local folklore with contemporary sightings and phenomena, particularly concerning ghosts and UFOs. The publication aims to be a comprehensive resource for those interested in the unexplained in the region.