OVNI - 1991 08 - August

Magazine Overview

This issue of OVNI, the newsletter of the Phenomenon Research Association (PRA), dated August 1991, focuses on recent reports of 'circles' and 'pictograms' across England, with particular attention to events in Nottinghamshire and Southern England. The publication aims to inform its readers about UFO phenomena and encourage engagement with the organization.

Editorial and Organizational News

The editorial highlights the significant increase in 'circles' and 'pictograms' reported, noting that publicity has led to numerous inquiries about the PRA. Due to this interest, the organization has committed to holding regular monthly meetings, commencing on September 27th at 7:30 PM at the Friends Meeting House, St. Helens Street, Derby. The newsletter also includes an application form for membership, emphasizing the importance of a strong membership base for the organization's footing. The editor apologizes for any outstanding replies to enquiries, attributing the delay to the extensive nature of current events.

Crop Circle Reports

Circles at Southwell

On July 17th, two 'events' were investigated in fields alongside the Southwell (Notts.) to Thurgarton Road. In the first field (wheat), a main circle approximately 47.5 feet in diameter was found. This circle had a 'T' section on its west side, and three satellite circles, each approximately 13 feet in diameter, were located on the north, east, and south sides. All satellite circles had swath sections on their east rims. In an adjoining field (wheat), two more circles were observed: a large circle of approximately 45 feet diameter with a clockwise flowing swirl, and a satellite circle of 48 feet diameter to the southeast, also with a clockwise swirl and a 9-foot diameter. This second field belongs to a local agricultural college, raising the possibility of a hoax. However, the crop circle in the first field was described as irregular with features indicating a genuine event. Photos, videos, and samples were collected.

Ilkeston Discovery

Following an observation by Eddie Sherwood while travelling on a bus from Ilkeston, a crop circle was reported in a barley field just outside the town. The main circle was approximately 50 feet in diameter and had three satellite circles positioned to the north, east, and southwest, each about 9 feet in diameter. The event appeared to have occurred several weeks prior, as new green crop growth was visible within the circle, consisting of barley mixed with oats from a previous planting. A notable observation was the uneven growth of the green crop, with a height difference of about one foot between the inside and outside of the circle, suggesting a potential effect on plant growth rate. Photographs and dimensions were taken, with circle dimensions noted as approximate due to variations.

Conferences and Group Activities

UFO Crop Circle Conference

A conference organized by Quest International, billed as 'Britain's No.1 UFO Event', was scheduled for Saturday, September 14th, in Leeds. Admission was £5 (£2.50 for concessions). Guest speakers included Anthony Dodd, Timothy Good (Alien Liaison), Colin Andrews, Pat Delgado, Graham Birdsall, and Mark Birdsall. The PRA was expected to have a display stand showcasing activities in the East Midlands and beyond.

Mansfield UFO Group

The Mansfield UFO Group, chaired by Mark Hayward, held an 'Open Day' exhibition at the town library on Saturday, July 17th. A stand outside the library attracted public attention, with visitors invited inside to view an exhibition of photos and videos. Deana and Omar Fowler were among the first visitors.

Nighttime UFO at Nottingham Farm

An incident occurred on the farm of John and Janet, who wished to remain anonymous, in the early hours of July 9th. Janet reported being woken by an 'indescribable noise,' described as a 'terrific highly pitched humming,' so loud it made her eardrums click. Simultaneously, she observed a brilliant glow of light outside the window, like a 'brilliant red, orange sunset, but absolutely vivid in colour,' which engulfed a willow tree. John was woken by the noise and also witnessed the light, describing it as 'fierce' and 'terrible.' He noted the 'heavy humming noise' and its intensity. The incident occurred around 1:15 AM. The report questions whether this event, occurring shortly after crop circles appeared about four miles away in Carlton on July 7th, might be connected to glowing balls of 'plasma' associated with circle formation.

In Our Next Issue

The next issue will feature a selection of the latest aerial photographs of pictograms and circles in Wiltshire.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are crop circles, UFO sightings, and the activities of UFO research groups. The editorial stance appears to be one of active investigation and reporting of these phenomena, encouraging public participation and the sharing of information. The PRA positions itself as a central hub for such research and discussion in the East Midlands.