Project Red Book vol 6 no 7

Magazine Overview

Title: PROJECT RED BOOK
Issue: Vol 6, #7
Date: March 2003
Publisher: YUFOS (Yorkshire UFO Society)
Price: £1:50

This issue of Project Red Book, published by the Yorkshire UFO Society, features a prominent article on 'THE BIG GREY MAN OF BEN MACDHUI & OTHER MOUNTAIN PANICS (Part One)' by Andy Roberts. The cover art depicts a stylized, menacing figure, hinting at the mysterious and potentially frightening content within.

Contents Overview

The magazine covers a diverse range of topics within the UFO and fortean realm:

• THE BIG GREY MAN OF BEN MCDHUI- & OTHER MOUNTAIN PANICS (Part One): Andy Roberts investigates phenomena on the Scottish mountain.
• BOOK REVIEW: Nikki Wright reviews Nick Redfern's "Cosmic Crashes."
• A VIEW FROM BRITAIN - THE JENNY RANDLES COLUMN: Jenny Randles discusses why authorities investigate UFOs.
• AN ON-LINE CHAT WITH JON DOWNES AND RICHARD FREEMAN: A Q&A session with members of the Centre for Fortean Zoology.
• SUB ROSA (Part 4): Bill Chalker continues his work, focusing on 'The Sea Fury Encounter'.
• UFO CAUSES TRAFFIC ACCIDENT: A brief mention of an incident.
• TALKIN BOLLOXINSKI: A piece on a US paranormalist.

Detailed Article Summaries

THE BIG GREY MAN OF BEN MACDHUI- & OTHER MOUNTAIN PANICS (Part One) by Andy Roberts

Andy Roberts explores the phenomenon of the 'Big Grey Man' (BGM) of Ben Macdhui, Scotland's second highest mountain. He notes that while the BGM is a well-known legend, closer examination reveals a more complex picture than sensationalized accounts suggest. The article traces the phenomenon's history, dating back to 1925, and discusses various witness descriptions, including a sensation of 'presence,' sightings of a large hominid, and overwhelming panic compelling witnesses to flee.

Roberts delves into the geographical and environmental factors of the Cairngorms, a sub-arctic region known for extreme weather, which contribute to the eerie atmosphere. He discusses potential antecedents in local folklore, such as the 'Am Bodach' (Old Man) and 'A'Chailleach' (Old Woman) stone giants, and the legend of the 'fahm,' a creature described as a giant mole-like quadruped. The article also examines the 'Brocken Spectre,' a natural optical phenomenon, as a possible explanation for some sightings, citing historical accounts from poets like James Hogg and mountaineers like Sir Thomas Lauder.

Roberts proposes a definition for a BGM experience, requiring a giant figure, heard footsteps, a sensation of terror leading to flight, and the location being Ben Macdhui or its environs. He critically analyzes existing literature, suggesting that only a few accounts truly fit this criteria, and that many reported phenomena can be attributed to natural causes or misinterpretations in challenging environments, as illustrated by examples of visual and auditory illusions experienced by mountaineers.

A VIEW FROM BRITAIN - THE JENNY RANDLES COLUMN

Jenny Randles discusses the evolving stance of the British Ministry of Defence (MoD) on UFO investigations. She notes that the MoD's official position, consistently maintained over decades, was that UFO sightings rarely had defence implications and were usually prosaically explained. However, Randles highlights significant changes, particularly in 2001, when the MoD began releasing older and even more recent UFO-related documents, partly in anticipation of the UK's Freedom of Information Act.

She points to the release of an early study into UFOs that briefed Winston Churchill in 1952, and the significant release of a 150-page case file on the famous Rendlesham Forest incident. Randles questions the MoD's rationale for maintaining a UFO monitoring department for over 50 years if no significant defence implications were ever found, suggesting that more substantive research likely occurred within other, less public, government intelligence and scientific units.

The column concludes that the MoD's decision to shut down its UFO department was largely a public relations move to appear transparent and cost-effective. Randles expresses agreement that UFOs are unlikely to be an overt alien threat and are better suited for scientific investigation rather than military response. However, she suspects that security-cleared scientists and RAF intelligence operatives continue to monitor UFO data covertly.

BOOK REVIEW: Cosmic Crashes by Nikki Wright

Nikki Wright reviews Nicholas Redfern's "Cosmic Crashes," praising it as a valuable source of information. Wright highlights Redfern's tireless research and his focus on uncovering significant breakthroughs, particularly those related to alleged British government involvement in secret analysis of UFO debris and alien bodies. The review mentions details provided to reporter Dorothy Kilgallen by Lord Louis Mountbatten about a crashed flying ship, and a Directorate of Scientific Intelligence document concerning Marilyn Monroe's alleged knowledge of J.F. Kennedy's UFO secrets. Wright strongly recommends the book, rating it "10 out of 10."

AN ON-LINE CHAT WITH JON DOWNES AND RICHARD FREEMAN

This section details a chat session between members of YUFOS and invited guests Jon Downes and Richard Freeman from the Centre for Fortean Zoology. The discussion covered various topics, including 'The Bolam Beast,' Bigfoot, and other anomalous phenomena, indicating a broad interest in fortean subjects beyond just UFOs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue reflects a critical and investigative approach to UFO phenomena and government involvement. There is a strong emphasis on examining evidence, questioning official narratives, and exploring the historical and folkloric context of anomalous events. The editorial stance, as stated in the disclaimer, is that the views expressed, particularly those of contributors like Tom Bolloxinski, do not necessarily represent the views of the editor or YUFOS members, suggesting a platform for diverse opinions within the UFO community.

Title: PRB
Issue: Vol. 6, #7
Date: March 2003
Publisher: PRB
Country: Australia
Document Type: Magazine Issue

Main Content

An On-Line Chat with Jon Downes and Richard Freeman

This section details an online interview conducted on February 27th with Jon Downes and Richard Freeman of the Centre for Fortean Zoology (CFZ). The interview, hosted by Dave Baker on the FriendsofYUFOS MSN site, covered various fortean topics.

The Hunt For The Bolam Beast: Jon Downes discussed the CFZ's investigation into reports of "Big Hairy Monsters" (BHM). He noted that while some BHM reports refer to real creatures, others, particularly in Britain and Europe, seem to refer to less tangible entities. The investigation into the "Bolam Beast" was prompted by a surge in reports following the death of Ray Wallace, a known hoaxer. During the investigation at Bolam Lake, Northumberland, electronic equipment failed, including mobile phones, walkie-talkies, and laptops. Two witnesses were interviewed, and Jon Downes reported a personal sighting on Saturday evening.

Zooform Phenomena: Jon Downes explained the concept of "zooform" phenomena, differentiating them from conventional animals. He described them as entities or apparitions that adopt animal forms, often a blend of paranormal manifestation and mythological icons. He noted that zooform phenomena are often linked to other fortean phenomena like crop circles and UFOs.

Racial Memory Theory: Jon Downes elaborated on a theory, partly developed by Richard Freeman, suggesting that the human brain retains a "racial memory" of primal fears from millions of years ago, which can be released under certain circumstances. This theory draws parallels with ancient predators and modern monster archetypes.

Yeti and Other Cryptids: The discussion touched upon the Yeti, with the belief that it is likely an evolved descendant of *Gigantopithecus blackii*. The discovery of the gorilla was also mentioned as an example of previously unknown primates being found. Other cryptids discussed included the Okapi, Komodo dragon, and the Australian Yowie.

Physicality of Zooforms: Jon Downes stated that while zooforms are not flesh and blood, they can sometimes appear to have a physical presence, potentially leaving tracks, though this is believed to happen only tangentially.

Megalania and Thunderbirds: Richard Freeman suggested that the Mkole Mbembe might be a giant semi-aquatic monitor lizard, possibly related to *Megalania prisca*. Regarding Thunderbirds, they were categorized into feathered and pterodactyl types, with the feathered ones possibly being surviving teratorns. The reptilian ones were linked to dragon lore. Both types were considered zooform rather than flesh and blood.

Sea Serpents: The existence of large, elongate sea creatures awaiting discovery was affirmed. The best guesses for these creatures are giant eels, elongate sharks, and primitive whales.

Origins of Forteana Interest: Jon Downes and Dave Baker shared their early interests in fortean phenomena, sparked by books like "Mysteries of The Unknown" and a fascination with Frankenstein and Dracula.

Goatman and Alien Big Cats (ABCs): The Goatman was discussed as a teen urban myth with limited foundation. Regarding ABCs, Jon Downes expressed a strong belief in their existence, citing a personal sighting of a puma in Cornwall in 1997. He estimated that there are around 2000 such animals in the UK, refuting claims of thousands.

Interbreeding: The possibility of interbreeding between big cats like lions and tigers was confirmed, with the mention of "tygons" and "ligers." The discussion also touched upon Josef Mengele's supposed hybridization experiments.

UFOs: Sub Rosa - Down Under: The Australian Military & Government Role in the UFO Controversy (Part 3)

This section, by Bill Chalker, details Australian government and military involvement in UFO investigations.

The "Sea Fury" Encounter: This controversial radar visual report from August 31st, 1954, involved Lieutenant J.A. O'Farrell of the Royal Australian Navy. While flying a Sea Fury aircraft, O'Farrell observed two bright lights that closed in on him and appeared to orbit. The incident was confirmed by radar operators at Nowra. The Directorate of Naval Intelligence deemed O'Farrell a "credible witness" who was visibly shaken. The case remains one of the best unexplained radar visual UFO cases on record.

RAAF and JIB Involvement: The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) asked the Joint Intelligence Bureau (JIB) to take over the "UFO problem." However, the JIB, through Harry Turner, rejected the overture, viewing UFO investigations as a complex conjectural matter that could draw unwanted attention. Turner later attempted to set up a "rapid intervention" UFO team. R.H. Mathams, Director of Scientific Intelligence, indicated that his directorate had only a "marginal interest in UFOs," focusing on investigations where there was sufficient evidence to suggest a connection with foreign scientific or technological developments.

The Chief of Air Staff (RAAF) & The UFO: Air Marshal Sir George Jones, Chief of Air Staff during WWII, observed a UFO on October 16th, 1957. He described it as a "brilliant white light at the bottom of a shadowy shape like a transparent balloon," travelling at high speed and altitude. He was certain it was not a meteor or reflected light and wished he had more witnesses. His autobiography, "From Private to Air Marshall," is cited as evidence of his credibility.

Clear Intent at Maralinga - 1957: During nuclear weapons tests in September and October 1957, a UFO was observed hovering silently over the Maralinga airfield. Described as a "magnificent sight" with a silver/blue metallic lustre and windows, the object was witnessed by Corporal Derek Murray and other personnel. The high security of the area prevented photography.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores unexplained phenomena, with a focus on UFOs, cryptozoology, and fortean events. There is a clear interest in historical cases and the potential involvement of government and military organizations in their investigation or concealment. The editorial stance appears to favor open inquiry into these subjects, presenting detailed accounts and interviews with researchers and witnesses. The concept of "zooforms" and the idea of collective belief influencing phenomena are recurring themes, suggesting a perspective that extends beyond conventional scientific explanations.

Title: PRB
Issue: Vol. 5, #6
Date: December 2001
Publisher: PRB
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This issue of PRB features a prominent cover story detailing a UFO sighting that caused a traffic accident in Kingsgate, Scotland. The magazine also includes a lengthy article exploring various conspiracy theories, particularly focusing on the alleged hoax of the Apollo Moon Landings.

UFO Causes Traffic Accident

The lead article, "UFO CAUSES TRAFFIC ACCIDENT" by Judith Tonner (Inside-Scotland, 19 February 2003), reports on an incident where a large silver, pulsating UFO was spotted over Kingsgate Retail Park during morning rush-hour. The sighting distracted drivers, leading to at least two minor vehicle bumps. Several witnesses reported seeing the object, described as "huge" and silver, resembling "dishes you see on the side of television transmitters." One local woman recounted her friend's experience, stating he was "really quite shaken by the whole thing" and that the object "suddenly disappeared." The article notes that the East Kilbride UFO Club was also intrigued, having been alerted by colleagues in Cumbernauld who had seen a similar object earlier. Lee Close of the Anglo-Scottish UFO Research Agency is investigating the events, noting the unusual nature of a UFO causing a car crash in Scotland and the increasing number of daytime sightings.

Talkin' Bolloxinski: Moon Landing Hoax

This section, likely an excerpt from a forthcoming book by the magazine's publishers, Haphazard House, delves into conspiracy theories. The article "MOON: land on it: (did we?)" questions the authenticity of the Apollo Moon Landings. It presents the theory that the landings were an elaborate hoax perpetrated by around 10,000 people. The article explores potential motivations, including the US government's fear of the Soviet Union reaching the moon first and securing a monopoly on "green cheese" and the "World Cheese Market." It cites a "whistle-blower" named 'Roger Whitaker' who claims the main obstacle was the space-suits' inability to deflect deadly radiation, which could have killed astronauts or caused mutations. Another whistle-blower, 'Percy Edwards,' suggests that Hollywood figures gradually leaked clues through films like "Diamonds Are Forever" and "Capricorn One." The article also touches upon more extreme theories, such as the moon itself being an elaborate mock-up suspended in the sky.

Upcoming Features

The magazine previews content for the next issue of "Project Red Book," including articles titled "Yorkshire Dragons" by Richard Freeman, "The Big Grey Man (pt 2)" by Andy Roberts, "British BHMs" by Jonathan Downes, "Sub Rosa (pt 5)" by Bill Chalker, and "The View From Britain" by Jenny Randles.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue demonstrates a clear interest in UFO sightings and related phenomena, as evidenced by the cover story and the preview of "Project Red Book." The "Talkin' Bolloxinski" section indicates an editorial stance that is open to exploring and presenting conspiracy theories, even those considered fringe or "daft," while maintaining a degree of critical distance. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in unexplained mysteries, paranormal events, and alternative explanations for historical and current events.