Ley Hunter - 1971 no 15

Magazine Overview

This issue of THE LEY HUNTER, Number 15, dated January 1971, is a non-profitmaking magazine edited by Paul Screeton, with its editorial address at 5, Egton Drive, Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, Co. Durham. The magazine welcomes contributions and is published monthly. A change in price is announced due to increased costs, with single copies from the next issue costing 1s. 6d. plus 6d. postage for subscribers, and 2s. from retailers in London and Cambridge. New subscription rates are also listed: 6s. for three months, 12s. for six months, and 24s. for one year.

LEAD-IN: BURN, ROSKILL, BURN

This section touches on environmental and conservation issues, referencing the end of European Conservation Year. It mentions hilltop bonfires and effigies related to Mr Justice Roskill, and the potential reprieve of Wing from an airport development, which would lead to the flattening of Wing Church. The author questions the necessity of a third airport, noting that Stanstead was chosen over Nuthampstead, which would have destroyed a land zodiac. In the North-East, a 'Stanley Zodiac' is threatened by high-voltage pylons and a power line that will follow Hadrian's Wall. There are also plans for opencast coal mining at Dipton, where wild cats are believed to exist, and discussions about a potential countryside park at Seaton Carew on land with earthworks, though the author expresses doubt about government approval.

WHAT IS THE INFLUENCE OF THE LEYS?

Authored by CIRCUMTIBRA, this article explores the nature and influence of ley lines. The author posits that some leys are marked with 'faces,' potentially representing elemental beings or human figures, citing examples from the Iberian Peninsula to the Hebrides. The influence of a ley seems to be related to planetary alignments and the historical use of the site. Places used for specific purposes, whether religious services or sporting events, develop an atmosphere that can affect people. The article suggests that gatherings of people create a 'field' of energy that can persist over time. Churches, even modest ones, are noted for their powerful atmospheres. Ancient sites are said to radiate influences, some helpful, others upsetting. The author speculates that the introduction of metals may have led to a deterioration of this radiated influence. Man's conscious or unconscious use of these forces can leave a positive or negative imprint on leys, affecting those who follow. The article also discusses the influence of sunlight and celestial bodies on leys, suggesting that the sun's light carries a full spectrum of energy, while other celestial bodies emit reflected light. The varying intensity of sunlight throughout the day and year is noted. The author connects the study of stars and zodiacs to the idea of celestial bodies impinging on leys, potentially acting as an external clock regulating earthly events. The role of UFOs in this context is questioned, suggesting they might manipulate human minds. The author concludes by emphasizing the importance of conscious thought and action to avoid leaving negative influences on leys, thereby enhancing their potential benefit.

ASTRAL PROJECTION, UFOS AND LEYS

Authored by DAN BUTCHER, this article investigates the relationship between astral projection, UFOs, and ley lines. It describes astral projection as involving an exteriorised parasomatic body traveling at three velocities: walking speed, an intermediate gliding speed, and a supernormal, incomprehensible speed for distant-point travel. The author conjectures that the trajectory of these projections is a straight line, similar to the theory of orthotenic lines proposed by Aime Michel in connection with UFO appearances. The article explores how the parasomatic body might be perceived at different speeds, from invisible at supernormal speed to a fast-moving light or various forms at lower speeds. The author questions the connection between these straight-line projections and ley lines, suggesting that a strong current, possibly an expression of will, could carry the projector to a destination. These currents are hypothesized to be identical with ley lines. The article notes that people who have unconscious or partially conscious out-of-the-body excursions may experience a sense of familiarity with certain locations, potentially revisiting places from dreams or projections. This phenomenon is linked to what Allen Watkins calls the 'ley-impulse,' a vague urge to visit sacred places or travel on straight courses. The article suggests that in ancient times, astral projection was used by shamans for reconnaissance of new lands prior to tribal migration, with the shaman acting as a guide for the group. This practice is traced through historical accounts, including the colonization of Easter Island and the vision of Macsen Wledig, which involved a 'dream journey' leading to Anglesea. The spirit Elen is mentioned in connection with ancient stones, lights in the sky, and shamanic practices. The article also discusses the 'Wild Hunt' phenomenon and its connection to UFOs. The author further links ley lines to the ancient practice of incubation, where individuals slept in sacred spots hoping for guidance dreams, which often resembled out-of-the-body experiences. The 'animal double' of the shaman is compared to ghostly animals encountered on leys, suggesting a connection to primitive human psyche. The article concludes by noting that reports of apparitions entering hills and mounds on ley lines, and sounds heard on leys (like humming and whinnying), are consistent with experiences in astral projection and UFO encounters.

MYSTERY FLASHES

This short report details a sighting on the night of December 14, 1970, by motorists on the A1(M) between Hawnby and Scotch Corner. Between approximately 6:00 PM and 6:20 PM, an eyewitness saw eight brilliant orange flashes, regularly spaced, followed by another eight orange flashes, and then eight white flashes. The author, Paul Screeton, suggests these phenomena were unlikely related to RAF Leeming or the Army at Catterick.

THE WELSH TEMPLE OF THE ZODIAC (Part 1)

Authored by LEWIS EDWARDS, this article begins an exploration of a 'Temple of the Zodiac' located east of Lampeter, between the rivers Teifi and Towi, in a valley. The author describes how inscribing a circle on a 4-inch Ordnance map, with a specific radius and center point, reveals outlines corresponding to zodiacal signs. The figure of a man on a horse, representing Sagittarius, is identified by the contours of a hill. The head of an ox, representing Taurus, is formed by an isolated hill. A road bending towards Lampeter forms the outline of a ram's head, representing Aries, with the district itself known as 'Ram'. The article notes debate about the origin of the name, suggesting it relates to the ancient importance of the site rather than the tavern. The author mentions the difficulty in determining the orientation of the ram's head, comparing it to depictions on an old Indian Zodiac and the Glastonbury Temple of the Zodiac. The back of the Ram is formed by an old Roman road. The article explains that due to space limitations, further details will rely on the 1-inch Ordnance map No. 140 of the National Grid Series Llandovery, focusing on clearly defined figures rather than their strict order. The figure of Aries is noted, and the presence of three woods in a line is discussed, with Piscès represented by two fishes. The article then moves to the northern part of the circle, identifying a hill named 'Hill of the Sacred Place,' whose surrounding roads and stream form the figure of a squirrel, representing Aquarius. Capricorn is formed by the hill Craig Twrch, with a pass known as the 'Pass of the Front of the Horn.' Scorpio is described as an awkward figure delineated by hills, with its sting pointing towards the center, represented by a wood. Scorpio is noted as a combination of symbols: Scorpion, Serpent, and Eagle. The article mentions that the sting points to a wood forming an Eagle's outline, with 'Tre Beddau' (The Place of the Graves) below the beak. Virgo is identified by a triangle of roads, with her body formed by hills. Leo is described as standing proudly erect, with its leg outline formed by the junction of the stream Gwynau and the river Gothi, similar to Glastonbury. The constellation Argo Navis is represented by a boat-like outline formed by woods west of Leo. The article concludes by mentioning Orion and Argo Navis as southern constellations and notes that a sign between Argo and Leo has not been identified. It also mentions the constellation Hydra, the Great Snake, located below Leo.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the interconnectedness of ancient earth energies (ley lines), consciousness, and unexplained phenomena, particularly UFOs. The magazine appears to adopt a stance of open inquiry, exploring speculative connections between historical beliefs, shamanism, astral projection, and modern sightings. There is a clear interest in ancient sites, their geographical alignments, and their potential energetic properties. The editorial tone, particularly in the 'Lead-In' section, shows a concern for conservation and a critical view of modern development that may impact historical or natural landscapes. The magazine encourages reader participation through letters and articles, fostering a community of researchers interested in these esoteric subjects.

Title: The Ley Hunter
Issue Date: May 1, 1971
Content Focus: This issue delves into topics related to ley lines, archaeology, UFOs, ancient history, and esoteric studies, reflecting a growing interest in these subjects outside of mainstream academic circles.

Articles and Features

The Somerset Zodiac and Glastonbury Centre

The issue begins with a discussion of the Pumpsaint Temple of the Zodiac, noting its date around 4,000 B.C. and promising further details in a future issue. An announcement is made regarding the planned opening of a center called "Oaklands" in Butleigh Wootton, near Glastonbury, Somerset, on May 1, 1971. This center aims to host talks, discussions, and study groups covering a wide range of subjects, including World Religions, esoteric schools of thought, the Hebrew Cabbala, Arthurian Legends, Ancient Prehistory (particularly concerning the British Isles and Glastonbury), the Somerset Zodiac, Ley-lines, UFOs, and the theory and practice of compost gardening and natural foods. Visitors are welcome, though overnight accommodation is not available.

Editor's Note on "Research" Article Reprint

An editor's note explains that the current article is the first of three parts, originally serialized in "Research" in 1948 and reprinted in "The Ley Hunter" with permission from Egerton Sykes. The reprint is motivated by the belief that Zodiacs are important for understanding Megalithic Man's skills and that interest in them is rapidly growing, as evidenced by responses to previous articles on zodiacs at Stanley and Nuthampstead. The editor notes that zodiacs are even more enigmatic than leys and suggests more exist in Britain than have been rediscovered.

Letters to the Editor: The Archaeologist Divide

The letters section highlights a significant tension between ley hunters and orthodox archaeologists. A prominent member of The British Society of Dowsers dismisses the usual scientific evasion of orthodox ideas. Philip Heselton contributes a poem reflecting on the nature of truth and the need for continuous seeking. Jess Foster of the Pendragon Society echoes experiences of encountering resistance from archaeologists, suggesting they should focus on their own research rather than seeking validation from the academic establishment. She recounts how the Pendragon Society withdrew from work at Cadbury due to the unresponsiveness of archaeologists.

Further correspondence details attempts to engage with academics like Lady Fox and Professor Charles Thomas, with limited success. The challenges of getting professional archaeologists to investigate amateur findings are emphasized, with one correspondent stating they have been trying for six years. The issue of professional archaeologists' reluctance to accept findings outside their established paradigms is a recurring theme.

Personal Anecdotes and Observations

One contributor shares an experience at Stonehenge where showing findings to Americans led to a positive reception, contrasting sharply with the dismissive attitude of some professionals. The author recounts being asked to explain findings at Silbury Hill while Professor Atkinson was present, only to find that the public was more interested in the author's insights than the professor's. This reinforces the idea that the public is often more receptive to alternative interpretations than established academics.

The article "The View Over Ivory Towers" is referenced, with a writer noting that Dr. Daniel's skepticism might stem from a disbelief in The Ley Hunter itself rather than John Michell's details of Cornish alignments. The piece suggests that in a material age, some may struggle to accept non-material evidence.

The Age of Professionals vs. Inspired Amateurs

The magazine discusses the current era as the "age of the Professionals," contrasting it with the era of the "inspired amateur" from the eighteenth century. It suggests that while professionals and amateurs could complement each other, resentment often hinders collaboration. The article posits that ley hunters resent professional archaeologists because the latter do not take them seriously, and vice versa, due to the perceived lack of formal background from ley hunters presenting controversial ideas.

Revelations are described as the culmination of years of work, and the work of ley hunters can appear superficial to outsiders. The author acknowledges that Dr. Daniel may not have given a fair hearing to ley hunter ideas, emphasizing the importance of open-mindedness from both sides.

BUFORA Symposium on Leys and Orthotenies

Janet Gregory reports on a BUFORA symposium where ley hunters presented their case, noting that many ufologists still do not accept the existence of leys. Stephen Smith's report from the BUFORA Research Bulletin outlines four points: the ley hunters' philosophy needs clearer articulation, the discarding of orthoteny requires examination, a knowledge gap exists between ufologists and ley hunters, and a connection between leys, orthotenies, and UFOs was not definitively proven.

Book Reviews

"The Pattern of the Past" by Guy Underwood: Reviewed by Paul Screeton, this book is described as a geodetic survey exploring three forms of geodetic lines believed to be manifestations of an Earth Force. Underwood, a dowser, criticizes orthodox archaeologists for their limited scope. His research suggests that prehistoric monuments may be artificial and religiously significant. The review notes that while Underwood's work is detailed, it has a naive view of prehistoric man's abilities and does not fully relate geodetic lines to practical uses, distinguishing them from the straighter ley lines.

"Not of This World" by Peter Kolosimo: Reviewed by Paul Screeton, this book covers UFOs and vanished civilizations, subjects also explored by ley hunters. It mentions individuals like Doug Chaundy, Brinsley le Poer Trench, Jimmy Goddard, and Mollie Carey. The review highlights Kolosimo's treatment of Megalithic culture, which is likely to be well-received by ley hunters. The book is noted for its conjectures about mysterious monuments on the Moon, disappearing islands, and evidence suggesting extraterrestrial involvement in prehistory. It builds upon existing theories rather than presenting entirely new ones.

"A Hundred Questions on Witchcraft Answered by a Member of the Craft": Reviewed by Paul Screeton, this book is praised for its lucid and thoughtful answers to questions about witchcraft. It explores the natural forces involved in witchcraft and emphasizes harmony with nature. The review recommends it as an excellent bargain for factual information.

Past, Present, Future Section

This section includes several short items:

• New Edition of "The Old Straight Track": Garnstone Press is publishing a new edition of Alfred Watkins's book.
• Quartz Crystals Request: A reader is seeking to obtain a quantity of pure quartz crystals.
• Silpho Moor Vehicle: The editor is requesting any magazines, cuttings, or information about the Silpho Moor Vehicle and its whereabouts.
• Glastonbury Tor Pop Festival: A free pop festival may be held at Glastonbury Tor in June.
• Strange Stories of Leys: An anecdote is shared about a tramp who claimed to have met an 8-foot-tall man nicknamed "The Wombat" in Darlington, who seemed knowledgeable about leys.
• Underground Railway System: A suggestion is made about a possible secret underground railway system in Britain.
• Daily Express Story: A past news story about men checking pipes across Britain is recalled, with speculation that it might have been related to something else, possibly involving a government interest in a mysterious straight line.
• Space Mysteries Cards: Barratt & Co. Ltd. is producing Space Mysteries cards with Space Man Bubble Gum Cigarettes, which are seen as a way to teach ufology to children. Card 8 features two UFOs over a Scottish lake, and card 15 covers the Mantell disaster.

Other Mentions

• John Wheaton provides a reference to "The Golden Dawn" by Israel Regardie for potential insights.
• A poem titled "On Glastonbury Tor" by Sthavira Sangharakshita is mentioned, available as a limited edition.
• Information is provided about "The Atlantean," a bi-monthly magazine covering diverse esoteric and metaphysical subjects.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the perceived conflict and disconnect between ley hunters and orthodox archaeologists, the exploration of ancient mysteries and alternative histories (including UFO involvement), and the promotion of esoteric and spiritual knowledge. The editorial stance appears to be supportive of ley hunters and alternative researchers, critical of the dismissive attitudes of mainstream archaeology, and open to unconventional theories and interpretations of historical and paranormal phenomena. There is a clear emphasis on the importance of open-mindedness and independent research.