The Researcher - No 04 - Vol 1 No 4 - Autumn Winter 1998

Magazine Overview

Title: THE RESEARCHER
Issue: Vol. 1 Issue 4
Date: Autumn/Winter 1998
Publisher: Merseyside Anomalies Research Association (MARA)
Price: £2

This issue of The Researcher, published by MARA, delves into a variety of anomalous phenomena, with a strong focus on UFO sightings and paranormal investigations. The cover prominently features a photograph of what is described as a flying triangle, hinting at the lead story.

Articles and Features

The Preston Flying Triangle Incident 11th January 1998

This article by Bill Bimson details a sighting by Gordon Davies in Preston. The witness described a large, black, triangular craft with bright white lights in each corner and a red strobe light. The object was observed at low altitude (estimated 200 feet) and a speed of approximately 45 mph. Notably, the craft ejected two small star-like lights, one white and one red, before changing direction abruptly. The author discusses possibilities including Extra-Terrestrial (ET) origin or secret military technology, ruling out conventional aircraft due to the lack of jet noise and the presence of a low humming noise. The article also mentions a similar sighting in Cheshire on the same date. The author filed a low flying complaint with the Ministry of Defence, which denied it was a military aircraft, and the Civil Aviation Authority confirmed no civilian aircraft filed night flight plans for the area. The conclusion leans towards either an ET craft or unknown military technology, citing the unusual noise, speed, and ejection of lights as reasons against conventional military testing in a populated area. A tenuous link is made to the Strategic Defence Initiative (SDI) and a Raytheon test on January 16th, 1998, where 'unidentified celestial objects' were detected, suggesting a possible connection to airborne sensor platforms.

Doctor Who (or what)? The MARA vigil at the Walton Centre Hospital

Mark J. Glover recounts MARA's vigil at the evacuated Walton Centre for Neurology and Neurosurgery. The article details anomalous incidents reported at the hospital, particularly in the Horsley Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the Jefferson Day Ward. These include disturbances, items being moved, an unpleasant atmosphere, and a specific incident where a nurse found a patient's oxygen tubing disconnected and the tap turned off, with the tubing wrapped around the tap. The author suggests these events might be linked to the intense emotional pressure and sadness surrounding the treatment and death of patients, though not necessarily direct hauntings by spirits. Other reported anomalies include a phantom woman seen arranging flowers, a nurse's call button spontaneously activating, and a strange figure seen by a nurse. A separate case describes a boy in Birkenhead who spoke of an 'invisible friend' named Sam, who matched the description of a former resident, and the occasional smell of pipe tobacco in the house.

Ley Lines-Myth or Magic?

This article by Peter Tiernan explores the concept of ley lines, questioning whether they are mere myth or possess actual magical properties. (Details not provided in the scanned pages).

Romancing the Stone-The MARA Avebury Trip

Mark J. Glover and Bill Bimson document MARA's trip to Avebury, a site known for its ancient stone circles and association with ley lines. (Details not provided in the scanned pages).

A Possible Link Between the Earth's Magnetic Field, The Paranormal and UFO's

Colin Veacock investigates a potential connection between the Earth's magnetic field, paranormal phenomena, and UFOs. (Details not provided in the scanned pages).

A Down to Earth View of the Wonders of Wycoller

Julie Boyd offers a grounded perspective on the phenomena associated with Wycoller, a village with a history of reported strange occurrences. (Details not provided in the scanned pages).

Front Cover Photograph Details of the Citizens Against UFO Secrecy

Bill Bimson provides details about the photograph featured on the cover, linking it to Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS). (Details not provided in the scanned pages).

Spring Heeled Jack. The Leaping Terror of Victorian England. Mystery Assailant, Ghost and Urban Legend

John Hall examines the historical mystery of Spring Heeled Jack, a figure reported in Victorian England, exploring theories about his identity and the nature of the sightings.

Fighting the In-Fighting

Bill Bimson discusses internal conflicts or challenges within a group or organization. (Details not provided in the scanned pages).

Will The Real Jack The Ripper Please Step Forward

Colin Veacock re-examines the identity of the infamous Jack the Ripper, proposing new theories or scrutinizing existing ones.

An Urban Myth

Tony Eccles explores the nature and origins of urban myths. (Details not provided in the scanned pages).

Grey is the Colour - Low Visibility-High Gullibility

John Hall discusses the phenomenon of 'grey aliens' and how low visibility or ambiguous evidence might lead to gullible interpretations.

A Special Thank You

Sue McAllister expresses gratitude to individuals or groups who have contributed to the magazine or MARA's work.

Psi-man

Colin Veacock presents an article or story related to psychic abilities or phenomena, possibly featuring a character named Psi-man.

The Voice - Editorial by Anthony Eccles

In his editorial, Anthony Eccles reflects on the current state of UFO conferences, noting a decline in public interest despite the widespread use of the 'grey alien' symbol in media. MARA plans to hold a Halloween conference at the Unity Theatre, aiming for a mix of UFO and paranormal topics to broaden appeal. Eccles discusses the challenges of media engagement, citing an instance where Granada TV requested sensationalist elements for an event. He emphasizes the importance of participating with the media to educate them. Eccles also announces his stepping down as editor of The Researcher, passing the role to Bill Bimson, and expresses his desire to return to researching, investigating, and writing.

Contributors

The issue acknowledges contributions from Bill Bimson, Anthony Eccles, Mark J. Glover, John L. Hall, Peter Tiernan, Julie Boyd, Colin J. Veacock, and Sue McAllister for articles. Illustrations are credited to John L. Hall, Colin J. Veacock, and Bill Bimson. Research Consultants include Paul Fitzgibbon, Dr. Steven Verner Weaver, and Dr. Carl Williams. Proof reading was done by Eileen Shaw. The publication also thanks its growing number of readers for their support.

About MARA

The Merseyside Anomalies Research Association (MARA) was founded in February 1996 as a non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging and conducting objective research into UFO and paranormal phenomena. It supports undergraduate and post-graduate research and consists of individuals with diverse backgrounds interested in investigating these phenomena within the Merseyside region. MARA is apolitical and does not hold fixed beliefs, stating it is not responsible for opinions expressed by guest speakers or in its publications. It is affiliated with several other research organizations.

About The Researcher

This publication serves as a platform for MARA members to share their research and interests in anomalous phenomena. It also welcomes letters from readers and articles from external contributors, though without payment. Articles are subject to editing by MARA.

The Vigil

This section details MARA's method for conducting a vigil at the Walton Centre hospital. The team set up infra-red cameras and video equipment to monitor areas where anomalous events had occurred. They used a baby audiol-monitor for the ICU side room and movement sensors. Bill Bimson was responsible for taking and recording environmental readings (temperature, magnetic fields, barometric pressure) every 30 minutes throughout the night.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include UFO sightings (particularly the Preston Flying Triangle), paranormal investigations (Walton Centre Hospital), historical mysteries (Spring Heeled Jack, Jack the Ripper), and the exploration of fringe science concepts like ley lines and the Earth's magnetic field's connection to the paranormal. The editorial stance, as expressed by Anthony Eccles, is one of objective investigation and a willingness to engage with the media, albeit with a critical eye towards sensationalism. MARA emphasizes its non-profit, apolitical nature and its commitment to unbiased research. The publication aims to provide a platform for members and external contributors to share their findings and perspectives on anomalous phenomena.

This issue of "The Researcher" magazine, dated August 1998 and identified as issue 98, focuses on paranormal investigations and earth mysteries. The cover story, "Romancing the Stone," details a MARA (Magonia Association for Research into Anomalies) trip to Avebury, while other articles delve into a vigil at the Walton Centre, the concept of ley lines, and the nature of hauntings.

Vigil at the Walton Centre

The issue begins with a detailed account of a vigil conducted at the Walton Centre, involving four designated observation areas and three concentrated vigil periods over a night. The investigation utilized cassette audiotape recorders and video cameras, with the aim of acquiring electronic voice phenomena and observing any anomalous effects. Three types of incidents were recorded on a vigil data sheet: non-instrumental incidents, equipment effects, and measurable effects. The four designated areas included the side room on Horsley ICU, the foyer by the lifts, the corridor near the doctor's room on Jefferson Ward, and the corridor on Jefferson Ward near room 2.

Objective Findings

Objective findings from the vigil included several instances of Bill Bimson's video camera switching itself off, which were attributed to potential power supply issues or camera faults. The videotape was found to be black and white instead of color, a fault that was later replicated by Bill when testing the camera at home, suggesting it was not an anomaly of the Walton Centre. Colin Veacock's infra-red camera recording showed no anomalous effects. Digital thermometers registered consistent readings throughout the night, with no significant short-term fluctuations. Barometric pressure changes were consistent with normal weather patterns, and no compass deflections were observed. An induction coil device picked up no low-frequency magnetic fields.

Audio-tape Recordings and Subjective Findings

No apparent anomalous effects were discovered on the audio-tape recordings. Subjective findings included Paul Bennet drawing attention to a cupboard door that had changed from closed to open. Bill's video camera was found to have been switched off mechanically, possibly by himself. Later, the camera switched off again, accompanied by unusual static through the viewfinder and a 'tingly' or cold sensation felt by some investigators. At around 12:30 a.m., Elaine Hannah and Eileen Shaw, in area 4, reported feeling cool, and temperature readings were taken, showing a slight drop. Later, Eileen Shaw and Elaine Hannah, in area 1, heard two strange sounds. At 4:18 a.m., a child's voice was heard crying, with similar sounds reported by others. Other sounds were deemed too tenuous to include.

Dowsing or Divining

All areas except the side room on Horsley ICU displayed possible dowsing effects. The side room on the children's ward also showed effects. Specific locations demonstrating dowsing effects included spots near the doctor's office, around the treatment room, and at the head of bed-spaces in Jefferson Ward and the Children's ward side room. Wire coat hangers and a metal pendulum were used for dowsing, searching for 'ghosts' or 'ghouls,' which Lethbridge defined as negative emotional energies or 'hungry spirits.'

Ley Lines - Myth or Magic?

This article by Peter Tiernan introduces the concept of ley lines, or 'leys,' which are described as lines of ancient trading routes marked by standing stones, mounds, and hill notches. Alfred Watkins' 1925 book, "The Old Straight Track," is credited with the modern concept of ley lines, though Watkins did not attribute mystical claims to them.

The Ley Debate

The debate surrounding ley lines involves two camps: practical and mystical researchers, including dowsers who claim to sense a power along these lines, and professional archaeologists who are largely skeptical. Statisticians suggest that in a densely populated area like Britain, straight lines drawn between ancient sites are likely to occur by chance. Professor Alexander Thom's research in 1967 established that early man constructed monuments with precision, but the inspiration behind it remains a question.

Ley Markers and Ancient Practices

Ley markers can include stone circles, cairns, tumuli, mounds, and standing stones. Castles and early churches also appear on leys, often built on sites of ancient pagan worship. The article suggests that ancient Chinese practiced geomancy or feng-shui, using dowsing and astronomical calculations to predict the placement of cities and graves to maximize benefit from the earth's magnetic currents, referred to as yin and yang. These 'dragon paths' or 'lung-mei' were considered vital for maintaining harmony.

Modern Ideas on Ley Lines

Modern ideas propose the existence of an 'earth force' that ancient man recognized and harnessed. Stone circles may have amplified this power. The article draws parallels between this concept and Rupert Sheldrake's 'morphic resonance' and the Chinese concept of 'ch'i' energy, suggesting that the Earth might function like a human body with leylines as meridians. The energy in leylines is speculative but may be related to 'earthlights' produced by mechanical pressures within rocks.

Romancing the Stone: The MARA Avebury Trip

This report by Mark J. Glover and Bill Bimson details a MARA trip to Avebury on Saturday, August 8th, and Sunday, August 9th, 1998. The area is described as having a Neolithic romance with nature, known for crop circles and other Earth mysteries. The group visited Windmill Hill, Silbury Hill, and walked along the Neolithic stones surrounding the village, believed to be part of a temple dedicated to the Earth Goddess.

Observations and Experiences

During the trip, the group experienced hot weather and visited the old Red Lion pub, which was recently mentioned in an anomaly magazine for its resident ghost, 'Florri.' They observed a mysterious light in the sky on three occasions, which faded out completely. Colin Veacock reported hearing an intense distant scream and a ceremonial drumbeat at one a.m., which was attributed to a typical pagan ritual. The following day, the group visited the West Kennet Long Barrow and Stonehenge, finding Stonehenge smaller and less impressive than imagined.

Further Investigations and Personal Views

The article touches upon the complexity of crop circles and the debate over their formation, with some suggesting non-human intelligence while others point to hoaxers. Some group members claimed to feel 'piezo-electric energy' from the megaliths. Bill Bimson shared his personal view, finding the weekend enjoyable and noting two moving lights that 'blinked' out, which he disagreed were meteors. He also observed a flying triangle with three bright lights.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the investigation of anomalous phenomena, including UFO sightings, hauntings, and unexplained energies. The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded yet critical approach, presenting findings from investigations and research while acknowledging the need for rigorous methodology and objective data. The articles encourage further exploration into earth mysteries and the potential for hidden knowledge or forces influencing our world. The editorial stance seems to be one of curiosity and a desire to understand the unexplained, encouraging readers to consider possibilities beyond conventional scientific explanations.

Title: The Researcher
Issue Date: August/September 1998
Price: £2
Cover Headline: A Possible Link Between The Earth's Magnetic Field, The Paranormal And UFO's

This issue of "The Researcher" delves into the intriguing connections between geophysical phenomena, paranormal experiences, and UFO sightings. The cover story by Colin Veacock explores the hypothesis that fluctuations in the Earth's magnetic field may be a common factor underlying a range of unexplained events, from alleged alien abductions to hauntings and psychic phenomena.

Articles and Features

A Possible Link Between The Earth's Magnetic Field, The Paranormal And UFO's by Colin Veacock

This lead article posits that shifts in the Earth's geomagnetic field could be responsible for a variety of anomalous experiences. Veacock recounts the experiences of two individuals, Mr. Smith and Mr. Jones, who suffered disturbing phenomena including vivid nightmares and physical disturbances, suggesting these might be linked to geomagnetic activity. The article notes that while the Earth's magnetic field is generally stable, significant shifts can occur, particularly during periods of high geomagnetic activity. It draws parallels between these potential shifts and the increase in reported UFO sightings, abductions, and hauntings, citing surveys by The Fortean Times.

The article highlights areas known for paranormal activity and earth energies, such as the Martha Lights, Warminster Triangle, and Bonneybridge, suggesting these phenomena are linked to ley lines and geological features. It mentions Chingle Hall, reputedly Britain's most haunted house, where lights mysteriously dim and flicker, a phenomenon potentially related to electromagnetic fields.

Veacock discusses how electromagnetic fields can affect living organisms, noting that while animals are sensitive, humans have largely lost this sensitivity due to technological advancement. However, he suggests that dormant abilities like telepathy and clairvoyance might be awakened by strong electromagnetic fields. He also touches upon the phenomenon of 'missing time' in abduction cases and links it to conditions like Asperger's Syndrome, suggesting that intense electromagnetic fields might induce similar temporal disorientation.

The article references experiments where artificial magnetic fields disrupt the ability to use the Earth's magnetic field for guidance. It also contrasts findings on psychic experiences in relation to electromagnetism, noting that while some researchers found stronger impressions in charged environments, others found more potent psychic messages during periods of lower electromagnetism.

A Down To Earth View Of The Wonders Of Wycoller by Julie Boyd

Julie Boyd offers a more grounded perspective on paranormal phenomena, drawing from her own experiences and beliefs as a clairsentient. She describes her visit to Wycoller Hall, where she experienced a migraine and subsequent fatigue, attributing it to energies that caused her own energy imbalance, rather than necessarily spirits. She also notes her mobile phone draining completely, suggesting a possible link to electromagnetic energy.

Boyd emphasizes the importance of considering natural explanations before resorting to paranormal ones. She uses the example of animals avoiding areas of atrocity, like Auschwitz, not due to supernatural reasons, but because the land is barren and lacks resources for survival. She argues that animals are highly attuned to their natural environment and their behaviour is often dictated by practical needs.

She suggests that what appears paranormal might have a simple natural explanation, such as the 'whip cracking' sound being from nocturnal animals or a brief moment of stillness being a natural animal behaviour. Boyd acknowledges the existence of unknown energies, whether natural, paranormal, or non-human, and questions whether they might be manipulating natural earth energies to confuse humans.

Spring-Heeled Jack by John Hall

This article recounts the legend of Spring-Heeled Jack (SHJ), a mysterious figure who terrorized Victorian and Edwardian England. Described as tall, dressed in white oilskins with a cloak and shining helmet, SHJ was known for his metallic claws, fiery eyes, and incredible leaping ability, capable of bounding over walls and houses up to 25-30 feet high. He was used as a 'bogeyman' to frighten children.

The article details reported sightings in Liverpool in 1888 and a subsequent visit in September 1904, where witnesses described him performing enormous leaps. It notes that similar entities have been described in other countries, and SHJ was reportedly seen as late as the 1930s.

Other Content

• Crop Circles: The issue features photographs and discussions of crop circles, including the 'Julia set' near Avebury and the 'Hamlet' branded circle. A link is provided to cropcircleconnector.com for further reports.
• Front Cover Photograph of a Flying Triangle UFO: The front cover image is attributed to Citizens Against UFO Secrecy (CAUS), a US-based organization dedicated to uncovering the truth about UFOs. CAUS uses Freedom of Information Act lawsuits and maintains a website with information and images of UFOs, including flying triangles.
• Advertising: The magazine includes advertisements for other UFO and paranormal publications and research groups, such as The Ley Hunter Journal, Northern UFO News, and Northern Anomalies Research Organisation.
• Dead of Night Magazine: An advertisement for 'Dead of Night Magazine', described as Merseyside's premier publication dealing with all paranormal phenomena.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the interconnectedness of geophysical phenomena (like magnetic fields and earth energies) with paranormal experiences, including UFO sightings, hauntings, and psychic abilities. There is a strong emphasis on exploring 'down to earth' explanations for anomalous events, while still acknowledging the possibility of unknown energies and phenomena. The editorial stance appears to be one of open-minded inquiry, encouraging readers to consider multiple possibilities and to seek rational explanations before accepting purely supernatural or extraterrestrial conclusions. The magazine also highlights the importance of research and information dissemination, as evidenced by the promotion of organizations like CAUS and the inclusion of references for further reading.

This issue of FATE magazine, dated January 1997, presents a diverse range of articles exploring paranormal phenomena, historical mysteries, and the intersection of folklore with modern myths. The cover prominently features a striking illustration of a UFO over a stone monolith, hinting at extraterrestrial themes, and poses the question, "THE REAL JACK THE RIPPER?". The magazine is published by FATE Magazine and has an ISSN of 0014-9425.

The Stitt Street Connection

This section details the Stitt Street case in Liverpool, where a haunted house was known for poltergeist activity, attracting onlookers. A young man named Hugh Morgan was arrested for breaking a window in the vacant house, claiming it was haunted. The magistrate fined him, advising him to leave the ghost alone. Another story recounts a mentally ill man who would cry out from rooftops, leaping between houses when police tried to apprehend him. The article notes that modern legends in film and TV often contain characteristics similar to the latter-day SHJ (Shadowy Humanoid Jumper) phenomenon.

Modern Day SHJ Parallels

The article draws parallels between the characteristics of the SHJ phenomenon and modern media, citing examples like Tim Burton's "Batman: The Dark Knight" and "The Crow," as well as the sci-fi horror film "Quatermass And The Pit." It suggests that the stealthy, avenging vigilante imagery and the 'leaping insectoid hobgoblin creatures' in "Quatermass" bear resemblances to SHJ descriptions. Other pop culture references include "Dr. Who & the Daemons" and The Rolling Stones' song "Jumping Jack Flash."

Will The Real Jack The Ripper Please Step Forward.

This extensive article by Colin Veacock delves into the mystery of Jack the Ripper, exploring the historical context of Victorian London and the brutal murders that occurred in Whitechapel in 1888. It details the five canonical victims: Mary Ann (Polly) Nichols, Annie Chapman, Elizabeth Stride, Catherine Eddowes, and Mary Kelly, describing the horrific nature of their mutilations. The article notes the police's investigation, the 'Dear Boss' letter, and the eventual cessation of murders. It then presents two primary suspects: James Maybrick, based on a controversial diary, and Dr. Francis Tumblety, an American doctor with a known hatred of women and suspicious activities. The article questions the police's focus and the media's eventual disinterest in the case.

Fighting the In-Fighting

Written by Bill Bimson, this piece addresses criticisms of his previous article, specifically concerning the half-life of Ge-75. Bimson defends his position, questioning the common knowledge of such specific scientific data among average scientists and highlighting a potential error in a presentation by Derrel Sims. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding infighting within UFO research groups and advocates for constructive criticism and teamwork, suggesting that internal conflicts weaken the community and play into the hands of those who might be covering up information.

An Urban Myth

Tony Eccles investigates a story concerning Frank Cowell, who died of cancer, believed to be caused by exposure to ionising radiation. The article links this to a contract Harry Chapman undertook in 1974 for the Ministry of Defence, involving the disposal of uranium rods from Liverpool University's Cyclotronic Unit. Three burial options were presented, with the chosen method involving dumping the rods in a disused railway tunnel beneath the Birkenhead tunnel. The article raises questions about the unmarked Guppy and Bae 146 aircraft seen at RAF Woodford, the potential export of reprocessed uranium to the USA, and a possible link between uranium reprocessing and stealth projects.

Grey is the Colour, Low Visibility-High Gullibility

John Hall explores the connection between the color grey, UFOs, and folklore. He notes that grey is used for camouflage in military aircraft and warships, and suggests that 'grey aliens' might use similar stealth technology. The article draws parallels between descriptions of 'grey neighbours' or 'little grey men' in folklore and contemporary accounts of alien abductions. It mentions stories of 'faire folk' and their characteristics, linking them to bedroom visitors and alleged alien encounters. The piece also discusses the smell of 'Faires' and the concept of 'faire processions' linked to ancient burial sites.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of FATE magazine consistently explores the boundaries between the known and the unknown, the historical and the legendary. The editorial stance appears to favor open-minded investigation into unexplained phenomena, whether they be historical crimes like Jack the Ripper, alleged paranormal events like the Stitt Street poltergeist, or the possibility of extraterrestrial contact. There is a clear interest in how these phenomena are reflected in popular culture and folklore, suggesting a belief that underlying truths may be found in these diverse narratives. The magazine also advocates for internal cohesion within the UFO research community, warning against infighting that could hinder progress.

Title: Fortean Times
Issue: 113
Date: November 1998

This issue of Fortean Times explores a range of paranormal and folkloric topics, with a particular focus on sightings and legends from the UK, especially the Isle of Man and Merseyside.

Articles and Features

Folklore and Strange Sightings

The magazine begins by detailing various folkloric beings and phenomena. It mentions "Grey Ghosts & White Ladies" and the "Cabbyl Ushtey," a water monster capable of shape-shifting, seen as a Centaur in 1922 near Glen May, Isle of Man. The "Grey Man" is described as a figure seen in misty weather on mountain tops, associated with pagan temples and known locally as the devil or "Lockman."

"Missing time" experiences are compared to alien abduction myths, where victims describe a "great glass house" and are found on cold mountainsides, as in the case of Sky Hill, Glen Audlyn, Isle of Man.

The phenomenon of "mist" is discussed as a means to conceal paranormal activity, citing its use in folklore and alien abduction scenarios. The concept of "glamour" is introduced as a theoretical illusion that affects the human mind, potentially explaining why witnesses in the same location can have vastly different descriptions of an event.

The Hopkinsville Goblin and Grey Aliens

The "Hopkinsville Goblin" incident of August 21st, 1955, in the USA is recounted. The creature is described as small (1.5 to 3 feet tall) with large, round eyes, a slit mouth, pointed ears, and claw-like hands, clad in a silvery garment, suggesting a possible UFO origin. The beings reportedly attacked a farmhouse, unaffected by shotguns.

The article "The Greys" posits that the commonly reported "grey aliens" in abduction experiences might be a modern interpretation of older fairy folklore, updated for contemporary consciousness. It suggests that hypnotically regressed witnesses may be reinforcing these archetypes.

Other fairy sightings include descriptions of beings wearing blue coats and red hats, or female figures in "scaly" apparel. Gnome-like figures are described with wrinkled faces, bright buttons, and carrying lanterns, which might be related to ball-of-light phenomena.

Merseyside Anomalies Research Associations Conference

A special thank you section, coordinated by Sue McAllister, details the MARA annual UFO/Paranormal Conference held on Saturday, October 31st, 1998, at the Unity Theatre in Liverpool. The event featured speakers such as Mark Glover and Tony Eccles on "UFO's on Merseyside: Five Years of Study," Jenny Randles on "Spontaneous Human Combustion," Andy Roberts on "A UFO Crash in Britain," Colin Veacock on "Hauntings on Merseyside," Carl Williams on "Exploring the Meaning of Paranormal Phenomena," and Billy Roberts on "The Implications of Mediumship and Paranormal Activity."

The conference was deemed a success, with thanks extended to numerous volunteers who served as stewards, provided catering, and managed sound and lighting. The MC for the day was Elaine Hannah. The event's primary purpose was not fundraising but raising public awareness of anomalous phenomena. The organizers expressed hope for an even larger attendance the following year.

Psi-Man Say's Comic

A comic strip titled "Psi-Man Say's" features the character investigating "Finger Bob's Inn" in Liverpool, described as the city's most haunted inn. Psi-Man encounters various spooky elements, including a skeleton and ghostly figures, and humorously interacts with the barmaid who states, "We don't serve spirits."

Illustration

A striking illustration by John Swogger (1996) depicts two figures looking out from a window at a triangular object hovering over a village and river, suggesting a UFO sighting.

Sources of Information

The issue lists several sources for its articles on Manx folklore, including works by W.W. Gill, A.M. Crellin, Jenkinson, Sophia Morrison, Charles Roeder, W. Cashen, and M. Killip. It also references "Fortean Times 'If Pigs Could Fly'" and Bob Rickard's "More Phantom Sieges."

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the intersection of folklore, mythology, and modern unexplained phenomena, particularly UFO sightings and alien abductions. The magazine explores how ancient legends might be reinterpreted in light of contemporary experiences, suggesting that concepts like "glamour" and the "Greys" could be modern manifestations of older fairy traditions. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting various accounts and theories without definitive conclusions, encouraging readers to consider the possibilities of unexplained events and their potential connections to human consciousness and cultural narratives. The emphasis on local phenomena, such as those in Merseyside and the Isle of Man, grounds these broader discussions in specific case studies.