Ley Hunter - 1973 no 39

Magazine Overview

Title: THE LEY HUNTER
Issue: No. 39
Date: January 1973
Editor/Publisher: Paul Screeton, 5 Egton Drive, Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, County Durham, TS2) 2AT.
Rates: Six months 60p; one year £1.20.

This issue of The Ley Hunter delves into the esoteric subject of ley lines, exploring their connection to ancient sites, consciousness, and mystical experiences. The magazine presents itself as a publication for those interested in the "ley system" and its broader implications for understanding the landscape and human consciousness.

Lead-In: Myopic Policy

The issue opens with a submission intended for "The Times" expressing concern over the Ordnance Survey's policy of reducing the marking of ancient sites on its one-inch maps. The author argues that this coverage has been vital for discovering phenomena like the "ley" system, a network of aligned ancient sites first identified by Mr. Alfred Watkins. The article emphasizes the importance of these sites, particularly old churches, for plotting alignments and highlights the reliance of researchers on the accuracy and completeness of Ordnance Survey maps. The author warns that omitting these sites will diminish the maps' international quality.

Apologies and Corrections

• Several apologies and corrections are noted for previous issues:
• An article on Wilhelm Reich, announced for No. 38, will now appear in No. 40.
• An article by Mollie Carey will appear in No. 41.
• On page 1 of No. 38, Janet Roberts, not Tony Roberts, attacked a book.
• A reference to Hereford Castle on page 9 of No. 36 should have been Hereford Cathedral.
• The word "fogou" will be misspelled on page 12 of No. 40.

Next Month

Upcoming articles are announced, including contributions on elemental subjects by Circumlibra, Nine Men's Morris by Doreen Valiente, a discussion of Wilhelm Reich by Leslie Marr, and letters on the Glastonbury debate by Nancy Schinaldi and Geoffrey Ashe.

Lines of Inspiration by Paul Screeton

Paul Screeton, the editor, contributes an article titled "Lines of Inspiration." He describes the "Ley Hunter" as someone with a special vision of the English countryside, both present and prehistoric, who undertakes an inward journey towards self-realization. This path is described as straight, leading through natural and ancient sites, connecting with the mystery of nature's cycles and the cosmos. Screeton posits that as mankind perceives the reality of the past more clearly, a thread of time becomes visible, leading to the "leys" – lines of prehistoric sites linked in dead-straight alignments by currents of power.

He suggests leys can be viewed as geometrical patterns, lines of power manipulated by ancient peoples, or lines of spiritual power that aid in consciousness transformation. Screeton intends to outline the physical reality and characteristics of the ley system, encouraging readers to verify its validity. The features commonly studied in ley hunting include stone circles, barrows, camps, standing stones, pre-Reformation churches, abbeys, and other sites of sanctity. He also mentions logan stones, mark stones, moats, conical hills, skyline notches, and significant tree clumps as potential indicators.

Screeton explains that leys are lines joining four or more sites marked on Ordnance Survey maps. The term "ley" was ascribed by Alfred Watkins, who found it as a prefix or suffix on these lines. Mapwork is essential, but fieldwork is the real work. The O.S. 1" to the mile map is recommended for its coverage and detail, with larger scale maps useful for local tracing and smaller scales for major leys.

He provides a practical guide to mapwork: laying the map flat, using a ruler and pencil, and looking for alignments. The exercise isn't about finding every ley but about identifying patterns. A method involves circling prominent sites and laying a ruler against pairs to find alignments of four or more. Another method is to turn the ruler slowly around a point to find radiating alignments, potentially identifying ley centres.

Screeton issues warnings: leys are strictly straight, and a line of three points or less is not considered a ley. While Alfred Watkins and Major F.C. Tyler accepted four points, many researchers now require a minimum of five. However, fieldwork can reveal additional points, validating shorter alignments. Fieldwork is described as the most enjoyable part, leading researchers to other fields like orthotenies (flight paths of flying saucers), terrestrial zodiacs, prehistoric astronomy, electro-magnetism, gravity, extra-dimensionality, orgone energy, astral travel, and the Ether. Ley hunting is presented as a "live" alternative to traditional archaeology, with a broad outlook.

Example of Ley System

A diagram illustrates a selection of leys around the eastern rural area of Teesside, chosen for its concentration of leys. Evidence suggests a terrestrial zodiac exists south of Yarm at Mount Flatts, with Yarm, Egglescliffe, and Eaglescliffe lying in Aquarius. Several main leys are detailed with their constituent sites, such as Sedgefield Church to Redmarshall Church (Ley A), and Sherburn Church to Kirklevington Church (Ley B).

Overground Publications

• This section reviews several other magazines and publications:
• TORC: Described as a hippie sub-culture magazine with content on the Glastonbury scene, New Age, and organic gardening. It is praised for being readable.
• ARCANA: Characterized as a bold, brash magazine with provocative articles, not for the squeamish.
• ORACLE OF ALBION: Nigel Pennick's personal view of mystic matters, covering zodiax, geomancy, and metrology. It looks scrappy but is interesting.
• PENDRAGON: Has shifted from Arthurian research to leys, zodiacs, and esoteric viewpoints. It is infrequent.
• AZOTH: Focuses on esoteric, practical magic and Qabalah, described as serious and young-thinking.
• MANTRA: Aims to balance Eastern and Western mysticism, presented in a high-quality, Gandalf's Garden style format.
• QUEST: A 32-page duplicated-form magazine on Western Mystery Tradition, keeping readers informed.
• THE ATLANTEAN: A New Age spiritual magazine covering a wide range of occult interests, from Atlantis to UFOs.
• JOURNAL OF THE BRITISH SOCIETY OF DOWSERS: Features material on water divining, healing, and radiesthesia, with perceptive content.

Where You Can Get The Ley Hunter

• The editor states he has had issues with proprietors of certain shops but lists several places where the magazine can be found, including:
• Dark They Were and Golden-Eyed (London)
• Compendium Bookshop (London)
• The Atlantis Bookshop (London)
• East Oxford Advertiser (Oxford)
• Watkins Bookshop (London)
• Sunflower Friends (London)
• Captain Swing (Leicester)
• The Public House Bookshop (Brighton)

The Other Kind of Dream

This section explores the nature of dreams, dividing them into two classes: those reflecting ordinary life and those that are absurd, unexpected, and disconnected from the dreamer's character. The latter are termed "hieroglyphical" dreams, representing the supernatural side of life and believed by ancients to be divine. In Jungian psychology, these are described as products of the collective unconscious, reflecting processes that disclose no relation to consciousness. These archetypal dreams are seen as overpowering and oracular, expressing the processes of nature and common to all cultures, universalizing the individual.

The author recounts a personal archetypal dream experienced about two years prior, which involved walking through the English countryside and being lifted high into the air. From this vantage point, the author saw the "ley system" as a gigantic circle or wheel radiating from a central axis (a fountain of water), with leys as spokes. The countryside glowed with a deep green, and the experience felt like a profound revelation. Upon waking, a sense of loss and longing to recapture the vision was felt.

Screeton interprets this dream as full of significant symbols. The flight motif signifies transcendence of the human condition, a common theme in yogic, shamanic, and mystical traditions, and also relates to "out-of-the-body" experiences. The feeling of knowing how to fly, forgotten in daily life, suggests the soul's true, divine nature being entangled in materiality. This motif is central to oriental yogic systems, Gnosticism, and Platonism, where the process of "anamnesis" awakens the memory of one's true, immaterial nature. Dreams of flight are seen as manifestations of this true, transcendent nature.

The dream's "great wheel of the leys" is compared to the mandala, a symbol of wholeness and integration appearing in dreams and visions, concretized into temples, stone circles, and art. John Michell's work is cited, noting the mandala form as the basis of sacred canons. The fountain at the center of the circle symbolizes the world-axis, the center of the world, and the point of creative manifestation. It also represents the fountain of life or eternal youth, a source of cosmic and biological fecundity, inspiration, and knowledge. Mediaeval communities often located fountains at the center of cities, linking them to the founding of temples on underground springs, the primordial waters of creation.

The mandala is also a symbol of totality, representing the Self. The myth of a giant figure (like the Norse Ymir, Hindu Purusha, or Chinese P'an Ku) containing all archetypes and being dismembered at the dawn of time is seen as an expression of the ego's awareness that, in the unconscious, the world and the self were once one. The "slumbering giant in the landscape" is interpreted as the subtle harmony of old sacred geomancy, awakening when the Self awakes, revealing the landscape laid out according to a pattern. This leads to reuniting inner and outer patterns and realizing the whole of existence as a flowing, dancing, ordered continuum, where one's own ecstasy is the ecstasy of the whole world.

Castle Moat to Be Restored

A brief note mentions the removal of silt from the moat around C15 Baconsthorpe Castle in Norfolk, and the discovery of an undamaged glass dragon at least 300 years old.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are ley lines, their discovery and significance, the role of maps and fieldwork in their study, and the connection between these physical alignments and deeper mystical, psychological, and spiritual concepts. The editorial stance, as expressed by Paul Screeton, is one of advocating for the preservation of detailed mapping of ancient sites and promoting a holistic, "live" archaeology that integrates esoteric knowledge, personal experience (like dreams), and a broad understanding of consciousness and the universe. The magazine positions itself as a platform for exploring these interconnected ideas, encouraging readers to engage in their own investigations and to see the landscape as a reflection of deeper cosmic patterns.

This issue of "The Ley Hunter" (Issue 10) introduces a dedicated "Books Section" that will appear bi-monthly. The section aims to provide a comprehensive survey of new books relevant to the magazine's readership, including reviews, general information on recent publications, and updates on authors' current projects. The magazine hopes for cooperation from publishers in providing review copies and information on forthcoming books.

Books Section

"Mysterious Britain" by Colin & Janet Bord

This review of "Mysterious Britain" by Colin & Janet Bord, published by Garnstone Press at £5.90, is presented more as a series of comments than a traditional review. The book, which has already sold out its first printing, is written by a husband and wife team who have individually contributed to "The Ley Hunter." The reviewer acknowledges that while experienced readers might not find much new information, the book serves as a primer for the general reader interested in subjects like leys, zodiacs, and the significance of sacred sites. The authors are noted for their accessible approach. The review mentions that "The Times" offered a most objective view. However, the book has faced criticism regarding the authors' capabilities and intentions. The photographs are described as mixed, with some excellent and others poor. The price is considered high and potentially prohibitive. The reviewer recommends it with reservations, primarily for beginners, suggesting the photographs help convey the flavor of old pictures.

"Mysterious Britain" - Further Comments

The reviewer addresses points of disagreement arising from letters received concerning the book. Michael Balfour, managing director of Garnstone Press, is mentioned as having rejected several books that might have been appreciated by those in the "higher echelons" of ley hunting. The reviewer suggests this might be a case of "sour grapes." Balfour is also noted as a ley hunter himself who arranged displays of ley maps in prominent London bookshops. The book was his brainchild, and significant effort was put into its publication.

"Mysterious Britain" - Illustrations and Value

Regarding the illustrations in "Mysterious Britain," the reviewer finds some obtrusive and used as filler material. A minor point of contention is the suggestion that Neolithic forbears constructed barrows as a "cargo cult" exercise, and the identification of the only "loathly worm" at Spindleston Heugh rather than Lambton. Despite receiving vitriolic attacks and many praising comments, the reviewer posits that a straightforward review would be pointless for existing readers. The book's greatest value is seen in its potential to introduce the general public to the educational system's "brainwashing" and awaken them to the hidden realities of consciousness and the landscape of Albion. The reviewer notes that two sentences they wrote on page 176 of the book, describing "live archaeology," are now in usage.

"Superstitions" by Alec Harrison

This book, available for 13p post free from Kenneth Mason, is described as a light read that summarizes well-known superstitions, some of which have a basis in magic. Examples include bees working best for honest men (linked to Alfred Watkins, a beekeeper) and advice on sleeping orientation (south-north or north-south, avoiding west). The reviewer humorously advises against buying the book on the 13th.

"The Health Food Guide" by Michael Balfour & Judy Allen

This is the second, completely revised edition of "The Health Food Guide" by Michael Balfour & Judy Allen, published by Garnstone Press at 95p. Despite the reviewer's personal struggles with vegetarianism, the guide lists nearly 800 health food shops (potentially more, as only one per town is listed) and covers organizations, restaurants, and hotels involved in the health food sector.

"Songs of Mu and Atlantis" by Richard Holder

"Songs of Mu and Atlantis" by Richard Holder, from Zodiac House, is described as a collection of unspectacular poems by Tony Roberts's protégé. The poems are neither banal nor pretentious but simply average. While the themes are agreed with and the effort applauded, the reviewer feels vivid imagery is needed to capture the subject's flavor, suggesting H. J. Massingham's prose in "Downland Man" as a successful example.

"Food for Free" by Richard Mabey

"Food for Free" by Richard Mabey, published by Collins at £2.50, is praised for being rational and persuasive, offering an "extravaganza of facts of flora" without being preachy or alarmist. It's not a simple field guide but a selective study of wild plants suitable for picking, pickling, and preparing. The book draws attention to the vast combinations of food available in salads and spices from hedgerows, woods, and seashores. The reviewer notes that gardeners might prefer common plants over herbs like parsley and mint, which are said to be favored by fairyfolk. The reviewer expresses personal caution regarding mushroom identification, recalling advice: "If the place looks nasty - like a bombsite - invariably any mushrooms there will be too. And vice versa." The book describes over 300 species, including their local and scientific names, history, nutritional and gastronomic value, and how to find, gather, and cook them. Shellfish are also included. Ninety plants are depicted in color, with a further 148 in drawings. The reviewer intends to use the book during the summer.

"Strangers from the Skies" by Brad Steiger & "Flying Saucers are Hostile" by Brad Steiger & Joan Whritenour

These two best-selling paperbacks from the United States, republished by Tandem, are described as compelling reads that focus on the more bizarre and hostile aspects of the UFO enigma. While acknowledging the growing tendency to view UFOs as largely psychic phenomena, the reviewer notes a "hard core of ufologists" who maintain that the craft are extraterrestrial. Steiger's 1966 work provides a wide-ranging selection of landings and sightings, including a chapter on Warminster titled "The Paralyzing Force That Stalked An English Village." The reviewer asserts that UFOs are not swamp gas, ball lightning, Venus, refuelling aircraft, or flocks of geese, but questions what they truly are. The jointly-written work delves into the frightening aspects of UFOs, such as incendiary games, kidnapping, paralyzing effects, and causing mental unbalance, presenting evidence that is difficult to ignore.

Bookend: "Atlantean Traditions in Ancient Britain"

A forthcoming book by Tony Roberts, "Atlantean Traditions in Ancient Britain," is mentioned. It will be published soon by Unicorn Books, feature many illustrations, cost about £2, and be A4 size.

Letters Section

Letter from Rollo Maughfling

Rollo Maughfling writes regarding the "Roberts Madness/Arcana nonsense" and the comic strip in "The Ley Hunter." He details the activities of the New Glastonbury Community: publishing a local magazine called "Torc," opening a summer information centre, providing an overnight hostel in a Methodist chapel (with free accommodation for the first two nights, then 25p per night, partly funded by a Somerset County Council grant), holding an exhibition of leys and ley patterns, and conducting free Sunday evening lectures on various topics. They have also reopened the old Abbey Café as a wholefood restaurant and community meeting place.

Maughfling then contrasts this with the actions of Tony Roberts, who has accused them of being "wolves in sheep's clothing" and "black magicians," and called them "despoilers of the soil of Glastonbury and the souls of the pilgrims." Roberts has also been critical from Cambridge to Timbuktu, presenting an image of the "Fall of the Roman Empire" in Glastonbury. Maughfling declares the score as "Fulham 3. Glastonbury 666!"

He reminds Roberts that Glastonbury, the Tor, and the Zodiac are part of Britain's "greatest open nature temple." He quotes Robert Zimmerman, stating that some "know too much to argue or to judge." Maughfling asserts that it is not Roberts's right to judge the worthy from the unworthy, as that is God's prerogative. He requests that Roberts refrain from casting them as "Satan's protagonists" and reappraise his own contribution to Glastonbury's issues, which he states has amounted to nil.

Letter from Patrick Benham

Patrick Benham ponders why Tony Roberts is so upset about Glastonbury. He notes that "The Ley Hunter" published Roberts's attack, which the editor (in simple terms) regarded as sincere but misguided and wrong, while championing freedom of the press. The editor felt publishing it would clear the air and cause Roberts to think again. Benham is familiar with similar pieces published by Arcana after Roberts's visit.

Benham acknowledges that some of Roberts's points, aside from the emotional tone, are valid. He describes Glastonbury as a "tower of Babel" with no coherent demonstration of solidarity to any one set of beliefs, apart from aspects like leys, Mrs Maltwood's Zodiac, and wholefoods. He argues against imposing any single credo, comparing it to a "Fascist jackboot." He believes "Torc" and the weekly lectures should offer all shades of opinion, as awareness is an individual matter.

Benham addresses Roberts's demand for evidence of "higher collective awareness," interpreting it as a threat based on a misunderstanding of the New Glastonbury Community's informal structure. He explains that the constant flow of visitors makes cultural habits hard to form, but emphasizes that Glastonbury's power is worked out on the level of personal relationships. He suggests that any falsity in one's values or preconceptions will be revealed and confronted in Glastonbury, forcing one to "turn inside out." Analytical psychology, he notes, demonstrates the need to acknowledge and assimilate the "shadow aspect" of the self for spiritual individuation, which may include karmic accumulations from past lives.

Benham suggests that the "ramifications of the karmic processes" are greatly speeded up in centers like Glastonbury. He warns against expecting only light, goodness, and peace, stating that one is more likely to "go off your head" due to internal pressures and external "karmic games." He proposes this is why Tony Roberts may have called his Arcana article "Glastonbury Madness," admitting that the vibes can "send people mad" and confront them with what they dislike in themselves until they embrace their darker nature. The difficulty, Benham concludes, is projecting one's own flaws onto others rather than acknowledging them. He suggests reconsidering Tony's articles in light of his suggestions, stating the answer is self-evident to him, "but then I am mad!"

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around book reviews pertinent to ufology, ancient mysteries, and alternative lifestyles. The editorial stance, as indicated by the editor's note on Patrick Benham's letter, is to champion freedom of the press and allow for a diversity of opinions, even those considered misguided or wrong, believing that open discussion can lead to greater clarity and understanding. The magazine appears to foster a critical yet open-minded approach to its subject matter, encouraging readers to engage with various perspectives.