SUFOG 1990 - 2002

Magazine Overview

This collection of scanned articles primarily from the Southampton Evening Echo, along with other local publications, covers the period from January 1990 to November 1999, with a cover page indicating the "SOUTHAMPTON UFO GROUP" active from 1990-2002. The central theme revolves around the formation, activities, and discussions of the Southampton UFO Group (SUFOG), spearheaded by Steve Gerrard, a Hampshire Police Force employee.

Formation and Aims of SUFOG

Steve Gerrard, a special constable and computer terminal operator, initiated the formation of SUFOG in early 1990. He expressed a belief that no similar organization existed in the Southampton area and aimed to rectify this. The group's purpose was to discuss recent UFO sightings within and outside the county, as well as to delve into books, magazines, and videos related to the controversial subject of unidentified flying objects. Gerrard actively sought individuals who had experienced UFO sightings or close encounters, or even those who merely suspected they had.

He noted that colleagues at Hampshire police headquarters were aware of his interest and that many policemen, being trained observers, had recorded sightings, suggesting there was substance to the phenomenon. The Southampton Evening Echo's UFO file, dating back to 1976, contained numerous accounts quoting police officers making sightings, particularly of saucer-shaped objects with domes.

Bob Price, a colleague of Gerrard's, was the first to express interest in joining the group. Gerrard, who possessed a substantial collection of UFO-related books and videos, also mentioned liaising with members of the British UFO Research Association and a group in Portsmouth with a view to launching SUFOG. The group also considered exploring the phenomenon of crop circles.

Personal Experiences and Beliefs

Ernie Sears, a member of SUFOG and a prolific correspondent to local newspapers, shared numerous personal experiences and strong opinions. He claimed to have had personal experiences with UFOs since childhood, including a "metallic triangle" hovering silently over his home in Portswood, Southampton, in 1977. This sighting was corroborated by five other witnesses. He also reported another sighting of a huge, silent, hovering, triangular object in 1977, and a similar incident in 1978 involving a small white "blob" tracked by a jet fighter.

Sears expressed frustration with official denials and secrecy surrounding UFO phenomena, believing that authorities either issue denials or remain silent. He felt that the media often treated the subject with ridicule, but argued that it was myopic to dismiss UFO reports. He believed that it was only a matter of time before humanity contacted other life forms from outer space, or had already done so.

Sears was particularly critical of government secrecy, referencing the Bilderberg Group as a "Secret World Government" and suggesting that Tony Blair's government, like others, engaged in cover-ups, possibly using the Official Secrets Act to muzzle the press. He cited Nick Redfern's book "A Covert Agenda" as evidence of a 50-year cover-up regarding extra-terrestrial infiltration of airspace.

In later articles, Sears, at the age of 74, described his experiences as "brain-scrambling stuff" and his way of "coming out of the closet." He recounted encounters with glowing cigar shapes, ghostly visitations, healing rays, and alien abduction, starting from the age of nine. He believed these experiences were part of a larger movement to "raise man's consciousness" and that millions of people worldwide had similar experiences that had changed them for the better.

UFOs and Official Investigations

An article from April 1996 reported that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) had admitted to having an "X-files" team, nicknamed the 'UFO office', within its Secretariat (Air Staff) 2A. This team reportedly received 200-300 reports of unexplained aerial sightings annually. However, the MoD stated that investigations were limited to assessing whether any sightings posed a defence threat. If no threat was discerned, no further investigation was conducted. The MoD maintained it remained "open-minded about UFOs and the existence of extra-terrestrial lifeforms" but "knew of no evidence which might substantiate the existence of such phenomena."

Steve Gerrard commented that the MoD had become more open on the subject over the years, becoming more helpful and providing fuller replies to letters. However, Ernie Sears remained skeptical, suggesting that while the MoD might appear more open, it was still bound by the Official Secrets Act and that the "lid is slowly but inevitably opening on this particular can of worms."

UFO-logy as an Academic Subject

An article from January 1997 highlighted a new ten-week UFO-logy course launched at Totton College by psychology lecturer Craig Roberts. The course aimed to be a "talking shop" on space phenomena, encouraging those who had experienced possible alien visits to share their experiences. Roberts noted that most sightings go unreported due to fear of ridicule, contrasting this with Japan's UFO museum and a UFO airport in a South American country. He acknowledged that while most sightings could be explained, the remaining five percent were of interest.

In October 1998, the Southampton Evening Echo reported on the country's first A-level qualification in UFO-logy at Totton College, taught by Steve Rider and Craig Roberts. The course aimed to dispel myths and explore the thousands of historical accounts. Students were encouraged to debate their own thoughts and beliefs, examine hoaxes, and were given the opportunity to share their own encounters, though some were reluctant to go into detail. Students like Carl Rogers and Derek Pavely expressed interest in finding answers to unexplained phenomena and the origins of life, with some hoping to pursue degrees in the subject.

Notable Events and Conferences

Southampton hosted its first national conference on extra-terrestrials in November 1999, organized by the Southampton UFO Group. Approximately 80 people attended to hear experts speak and watch videos and photographic evidence of UFOs. Speakers included Graham Birdsall, editor of Quest magazine, who discussed UFO history and cover-ups; photography and video expert Russel Callaghan, who showed footage of a possible UFO sighting in Aylesham, Kent; and Lionel Beer and Malcolm Robinson from the British UFO Research Association.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout these articles are the persistent public interest in UFOs, the perceived secrecy and denial from official sources (particularly the government and military), and the personal experiences and beliefs of UFO enthusiasts. The Southampton Evening Echo and other publications featured these stories, providing a platform for local UFO groups and individuals to share their views and experiences. While some articles adopt a more neutral reporting tone, others, particularly those featuring Ernie Sears, express a strong conviction about the reality of UFOs and the need for transparency. The emergence of UFO-logy as an academic pursuit suggests a growing mainstream acceptance of the subject as a field of study, albeit one still grappling with skepticism and the challenge of definitive proof.

Title: The News
Issue Date: Thursday, February 8, 2001
Publisher: The News
Country: England
Price: 30p
Cover Headline: Are mysterious lights seen over Portsdown Hill evidence of UFOs?

Main Articles

UFO hopefuls scanning the skies (Page 1)

This article details recent UFO sightings in Hampshire, highlighting two similar incidents reported by Netley pensioner Ernie Sears and Southampton resident Andy Philips. Both described seeing a glowing light in the sky that was slow-moving and vanished quickly. The Southampton UFO group has received numerous similar reports from the Hamble and Romsey areas. Ernie Sears, a member of the 25-strong group for nine years, notes a surge in witness reports following media coverage. He believes Hampshire might be at the forefront of a 'spiritual/technological revolution'. Another report mentions a couple seeing a low light illuminating their glass-front door for three minutes before speeding off.

UFO riddles (Page 1)

This section reports on two distinct UFO incidents. The first, on the evening of May 19, involved a mysterious globe-shaped light seen hovering over Southampton Water, occasionally moving and showing a dim red light and a strobe. An aircraft from the Southampton docks area circled the object multiple times. Authorities reportedly denied all knowledge of the incident. The second incident, on June 20, described a brilliant pinkish light hovering over the Ingleside Estate in Netley Abbey. It also had two white lights, one of which disintegrated while the other brightened before speeding off towards Woolston. The oddity is that the same percipient, with her husband and then her son, had witnessed a similar phenomenon on Boxing Night 1999. Witnesses are known to the reporter, who has no doubt about their descriptions. Contact information for the Southampton UFO Group is provided.

Call for UFO witnesses (Page 1)

This article appeals for witnesses to a strange phenomenon in the skies above Basingstoke on March 31st. The Southampton UFO Group is investigating a report of an unidentified flying object (UFO) seen that night. Investigator Steve Rider explained that the eyewitness saw 20 to 30 objects arranged in two lines in a V-formation, described as zig-zagging and glowing orange/red. The formation moved easterly and was compared to the 'Lubbock Lights' seen over Texas in the 1950s. The group has contacted Gatwick and Heathrow airports and the Ministry of Defence, but received no information. Basingstoke police also could not shed light on the sighting. Mr Rider noted that the witness is a pilot and accustomed to seeing various aerial phenomena but had never seen anything like this before. This is the only UFO report in Basingstoke this year, and the group plans to investigate the area further to provide an explanation or log it as unexplained.

Are mysterious lights seen over Portsdown Hill evidence of UFOs? (Page 2)

This article investigates claims of extraterrestrial reconnaissance flights over a top-secret defence site near Portsmouth. UFO investigator Ernie Sears believes the truth is out there, despite government denials. The article recounts several sightings: on March 18, 2000, a UFO was seen over Portsdown Hill; on May 19, a giant beam of light hovered over the Solent for 20 minutes; and no aircraft circled it. Ernie Sears, a former insurance agent and UFO investigator for over 50 years, notes that official denials are common in UFO cases, especially when they involve defence sites. Portsdown Hill is highlighted as a location of interest due to its proximity to research labs and antennae. Sears has personally witnessed a UFO hovering over the site. He recalls a March morning in 1960 when he saw a shining object motionless over the former Admiralty weapons research building. He also mentions an incident in November 1957 when he saw a bright orange disc before Sputnik 2 flew overhead. Sears believes UFO sightings are increasing over Portsmouth, attracting watchers to the area. He suggests that UFOs concentrate on defence bases when probing potential invasion targets. He also observes a shift in public attitudes, with UFOs becoming more accepted in popular culture.

There's no threat, says man from the ministry (Page 2)

This sidebar discusses the Ministry of Defence's (MoD) stance on UFOs. Junior defence minister Lewis Moonie states that rational explanations can usually be found for sightings and that the MoD does not investigate them. However, the MoD does not claim UFOs cannot exist, remaining 'open-minded' about extraterrestrial life, but has found no evidence to substantiate such claims.

Quest for the truth as files on sightings continue to pile up (Page 3)

This article continues the theme of UFO investigations, focusing on the work of UFO enthusiasts. It mentions that 'flying saucer' is a misnomer, as most sightings involve bright lights, often white and sometimes flashing. Enthusiasts have captured video footage of recent UFO visits to the Solent. One incident on March 18, 2000, over Portsmouth involved a bright light that changed direction and disappeared. The article notes that most reports are astronomical misinterpretations, but some remain unexplained. Ernie Sears is quoted as saying that UFOs are part of the culture now and people are less likely to dismiss sightings.

Could this be prove we are not alone..? (Page 3)

This article introduces Anthony Woods, a local enthusiast who has captured mysterious images on video, potentially providing crucial evidence of UFOs. It highlights the site of Portsdown Hill as legendary for UFO buffs. Woods claims to have seen objects in the sky regularly since the 1960s, starting with a childhood sighting in 1972 of a silver object hovering above Portsdown Hill, which he initially mistook for a NASA spaceship.

A case for Mulder and Scully (Page 8)

This piece introduces Steve Gerrard, founder of the Southampton UFO group, which is ten years old and thriving. It frames the group's work as a serious investigation into potential visits from outer space.

feature (Page 9)

This article delves into the concept of UFOs and alien encounters, featuring Steve Gerrard, the founder of the Southampton UFO Group (SUFOG). Gerrard recounts a personal experience five years prior on Cheesefoot Head, near Winchester, where he and four other members witnessed a large, lozenge-shaped light appear and then disappear. Gerrard describes the adrenaline rush associated with such sightings. The article acknowledges that UFOs can be a sensitive topic, with some people dismissing them while others are serious believers. It notes that the concept of extraterrestrial life appeals to many, and that aliens have captured the imagination of filmmakers over the decades.

UFO sightings (Page 10)

This section details various UFO sightings in the south of England, particularly in Hampshire. It mentions that the south of England is a prime location for spotting UFOs, with reports of discs, blobs, cigar shapes, and boomerangs. Warminster is noted as a popular spot for UFO enthusiasts. The article touches upon the changing shapes of visiting craft, from saucers to triangular forms. Steve Gerrard, now 38, is described as having been obsessed with the paranormal since his teenage years and set up SUFOG ten years ago, which now has 70 members. Gerrard prefers the term Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP). He has given interviews and is scheduled to appear on the Discovery Channel. The article lists several specific sightings, including one in 1972 involving a silver object over Portsdown Hill, and a 1999 sighting of a red object filmed by Anthony Woods. It also mentions a 2001 sighting of three objects over Portsdown Hill. The article concludes by stating that while many sightings are logged, there is often no adequate explanation.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are the persistent reports of unexplained aerial phenomena in the Hampshire region, particularly around Portsdown Hill and Southampton. There is a strong emphasis on eyewitness accounts and the efforts of local UFO investigation groups, such as the Southampton UFO Group (SUFOG), to document and understand these sightings. The articles highlight the contrast between the enthusiasm and conviction of UFO researchers and the skepticism or denial from official sources, including the Ministry of Defence and local authorities. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry, presenting the accounts and investigations without outright endorsement or dismissal, while acknowledging the public's fascination with the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The articles also touch upon the historical context of UFO sightings and the evolution of public perception.

This issue of the Evening Echo, dated May 15, 2001, features a prominent article titled "SOAPBOX: Up in the air" with the sub-headline "Still on the trail of our UFOs." The cover image includes a photograph of Ernie Sears and Andy Phillips, alongside an inset image of a UFO. The publication appears to be a local newspaper from Southampton, England.

Main Article: Still on the trail of our UFOs

Ernie Sears, the public relations officer for the Southampton UFO Group (SUFOG), addresses the notion that UFOs have left the vicinity of Earth, stating this is "vastly exaggerated." He notes the folding of the Bristol-based British Flying Saucer Bureau due to declining membership, attributing this to a shift towards home-based ufology.

Sears reassures readers that SUFOG is "alive and well and currently thriving" with a small but definite increase in membership. The group continues to hold meetings on the third Thursday of each month at the Victoria Social Club in Victoria Road, Netley Abbey. These meetings include viewing up-to-date videos from local and distant skywatches and exploring a wider range of paranormal phenomena.

He mentions that a recent Radio Solent broadcast and the Dorchester conference, where SUFOG founder Steve Gerrard spoke, have increased membership to over 60. Sears also hints at personal experiences, stating that some group members, including himself, are having "encounters of the more spooky kind," which he attributes to an increasing world phenomenon. He cites Royal Victoria Country Park as a location where such examples have been provided.

Meridian TV recently filmed SUFOG members handling a replay of a May encounter over Southampton Water, which had been filmed from Netley. Various authorities had denied the sighting, and the Ministry of Defence (MOD) could not explain the ten-minute video.

Sears concludes that the enigma of UFOs remains, but is "not quite so unsolvable." He invites anyone with an inquiring mind or unexplainable experiences to contact SUFOG via phone. He asserts that SUFOG is the "only working UFO group getting to grips with the theory and the actual 'out there' reality along the south coast."

Associated Articles and Features:

Farnborough News (Friday 18th January 2002)

This section includes articles from a different publication, the Farnborough News, dated January 18, 2002. It highlights features related to UFOs:

• "Lid lifted on MoD's official UFO working party - Farnborough sightings of 1950s revealed under 50-year document rule": This article discusses the release of declassified documents concerning the Ministry of Defence's investigation into UFO sightings in Farnborough during the 1950s.
• "One of many UFO sightings": A caption accompanying an image of a UFO.

"X-Files has nothing on these events..." (Page 3)

This article delves into historical UFO sightings and investigations in the Farnborough area, drawing from newspaper archives:

• November 11, 1969: The Surrey Investigation Group on Aerial Phenomena (SIGAP) reported investigating 171 UFO reports since 1967, with over a quarter remaining unexplained. SIGAP chairman Omar Fowler stated the subject was worthy of international investigation.
• February 5, 1971: An incident involving fifteen ambulances, two fire engines, and five police cars responding to reports of a crashed aircraft near Farnham, but no wreckage was found.
• November 11, 1969: A student named Art James Rawlence reported seeing an orange light in the sky over Farnborough that moved rapidly towards the horizon.
• April 4, 1978: Doris Luke of Park Row, Farnham, described a close encounter with a flying saucer, calling it a "spinning top" that moved at a "terrific speed."
• April 11, 1978: Eight people reported sightings of an unidentified flying object above Farnborough and Ash, described as bright white with green lights.
• October 14, 1983: Alfred Burtoo of Aldershot claimed he was taken aboard a UFO by two 4ft tall beings dressed in pale green suits.
• July 27, 1984: A series of mysterious, unexplained noises and humming sounds were reported in Aldershot.
• January 12, 1988: Sixteen-year-old Andrew Linday reported seeing a flying saucer shaped object over Bagshot.
• November 1, 1994: A former policeman and his wife reported seeing a mystery aircraft flying silently over Farnborough.

"Let your imagination take flight in the world of UFOs" by Lisa Millar (Page 4)

This article focuses on the historical government investigation into UFOs in Britain:

• The Flying Saucer Working Party: A team was set up by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to investigate UFO sightings in post-war Britain.
• Farnborough Sightings (1951): Documents released under the 50-year rule revealed an assignment to investigate a sighting over Farnborough. RAF Flight Lieutenant Hubbard reported seeing a "flat disc, light pearl in colour, about 50ft in diameter flying low at speeds of 800 to 1,000mph." He later reported seeing another disc-shaped object, which was also witnessed by five other senior RAF officers.
• MoD Investigation: The MoD team interrogated the officers and banned them from discussing their experiences. Their report concluded the first sighting was an optical illusion and the second was likely a normal aircraft seen in unusual circumstances.
• Expert Opinions: Graham Birdsall, editor of UFO Magazine, criticized the MoD's investigation, stating that the officers were trained observers who would not risk ridicule. He argued that the government's approach undermined credible witnesses.
• SUFOG's Role: Steve Gerrard of SUFOG stated that Hampshire receives up to 30 unexplained sightings annually. SUFOG investigates sightings by contacting witnesses, military personnel, and making appeals through the local newspaper. They also use star-charts to rule out astronomical explanations.

Graham Birdsall, editor of UFO Magazine (Page 5)

This section features a photograph of Graham Birdsall and discusses the challenges of UFO investigation, noting that while the MoD has been slow to release documents, newspaper archives reveal many unexplained sightings. It provides website addresses for SUFOG and UFO Magazine.

"The real X-files" (Page 6)

This article details the Admiralty's 50-year-old probe into UFO sightings over Portsdown Hill, commissioned by Winston Churchill.

• Directorate for Scientific Intelligence: Formed in October 1950, this directorate comprised top technical experts from the navy, army, and air force.
• Six-page report (June 1951): The directorate presented its findings, which were stamped secret.
• Churchill's Inquiry: Winston Churchill himself inquired about UFOs, as the government was concerned they could be confused with a Russian attack.
• Portsdown Hill: This location was noted as a hotbed for UFO activity.
• MOD Conclusion: The intelligence directorate was wound down, and investigations were to cease unless material evidence became available, deeming the study "a singularly profitless enterprise."
• UFO Investigator's Picture: An image claiming to show a UFO over Scotland in 1999.

"The place to spot UFOs" (Page 7)

This brief section, accompanied by a classic UFO picture, suggests that readers who watched a recent UFO documentary might be interested in the Southampton UFO Group. It mentions that the group has filmed craft at specific spots.

Chronological Lists (Pages 8-10)

These pages provide extensive lists of media appearances and activities by Steve Gerrard, Steve Rider, and Ernie Sears of SUFOG, spanning from 1990 to 1995. This includes newspaper articles, radio interviews, lectures, and conferences, detailing their engagement with the public and media on UFO-related topics.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this collection of articles are the persistent nature of UFO sightings, the historical and ongoing government interest (and subsequent downplaying) of these phenomena, and the dedication of civilian UFO research groups like SUFOG. The editorial stance appears to be one of acknowledging the enduring mystery of UFOs while also highlighting the efforts of enthusiasts to investigate and understand them. There's a clear emphasis on eyewitness accounts, historical records, and the challenges of obtaining definitive proof, contrasted with the official skepticism and secrecy that often surrounds the topic. The articles collectively suggest that while the "enigma" may persist, the pursuit of answers continues.

This document, titled "UFO DATA," is a chronological listing of UFO-related activities spanning from 1996 to 2002. It appears to be a record of events, lectures, media appearances, and conferences primarily involving Steve Rider, Steve Gerrard, and Ernie Sears. The data is presented year by year, with specific dates and descriptions of each activity.

1996 The year 1996 saw Steve Rider as SUFOG Secretary teaching on a Totton College UFO Course, while Steve Gerrard was appointed Moderator for the same course for five years. Key events included a Radio Solent interview with Steve Gerrard, lectures by Steve Gerrard in Portsmouth and Andover, and a Bournemouth lecture by Steve Gerrard and Ernie Sears. Steve Gerrard was also featured in the Portsmouth News newspaper multiple times. Nick Pope was mentioned attending an event in Southampton, with Bill Smith in attendance. Ernie Sears was mentioned in the Southampton Evening Echo newspaper, and both Ernie Sears and Steve Gerrard participated in the SPI Conference in Portsmouth. The year also included a Contact International Conference.

1997 In 1997, SUFOG UFO Footage was recorded at Portsdown Hill. Steve Gerrard was frequently mentioned in the Southampton Evening Echo newspaper and gave lectures at Totton College UFO Course alongside Ernie Sears. He also participated in Radio Solent interviews and attended the Dorchetser Conference with Bill Smith. Other lectures by Steve Gerrard included the Everton Ramblers Group and Southampton Hospital Radio. Steve Gerrard also attended the Cricklade Theatre event with Derrel Sims. SUFOG hosted a lecture by Roy Lake on "A layman's Guide to UFOlogy." Steve Gerrard lectured at the Southend UFO Group Conference and had further Radio Solent interviews. Steve Rider also had a Radio Solent interview. Steve Gerrard and Ernie Sears lectured for the National Woman's Register, and there was a Contact International Conference. SUFOG hosted a lecture by Paul Vigay on "Crop Circles," and Steve Gerrard and Ernie Sears appeared on "The Why Files" via Cable Television.

1998 The year 1998 featured numerous Radio Solent interviews with Steve Gerrard and Steve Rider. Ernie Sears was featured on Espreso (Ch 5 Television) and in the Southampton Evening Echo newspaper. SUFOG hosted a lecture by Matthew Williams on "Secret Underground Bases." Steve Gerrard attended the Dorchester Conference. Steve Rider was mentioned in relation to an event at Bitterne Park School (Southampton). Steve Gerrard was featured on Meridian Television's "Members Only." Steve Gerrard and Ernie Sears gave a lecture at Ringwood Library. Steve Rider was also mentioned in relation to "The Big Breakfast Television." Steve Gerrard gave a lecture on the Isle of Wight. Steve Gerrard participated in the UFOKENT Conference and lectured for the West End Ladies Group. Ernie Sears gave a lecture for the Woolston Family Circle. Steve Rider was mentioned in the Southampton Evening Echo newspaper. SUFOG recorded UFO footage at Portsdown Hill. SUFOG hosted a lecture by Malcolm Robinson on "UFO Sightings in Scotland."

1999 In 1999, Steve Rider gave a lecture to the Young Hambledon Farmers. Ernie Sears was frequently mentioned in the Southampton Advertiser newspaper, including a letter. Bill Smith conducted an interview with Timothy Good at Waterstone Book Shop. SUFOG hosted lectures by Busty Taylor and Ernie Sears. Steve Gerrard gave a talk to the West End Ladies Group. Steve Rider, Steve Gerrard, and Ernie Sears appeared on "3 Minutes Television." Steve Gerrard gave lectures to the 14th Itchen (Southampton) Scouts and for SUFOG. Ernie Sears was mentioned in the Southampton Evening Echo newspaper multiple times. SUFOG organized an Avebury Sky Watch and a 1 Day Conference in Southampton. Ernie Sears was also mentioned in relation to a lecture at Southampton Guildhall, with Albert Budden in attendance. Steve Gerrard gave a lecture for the Lionel Beer's TEMS Group.

2000 The year 2000 included SUFOG Skywatch footage at Portsdown Hill and SUFOG UFO Footage at Netley Abbey. Steve Gerrard gave a lecture at the Dorchester Conference and was interviewed on Wave 105 Radio. Ernie Sears was featured in the Southampton Evening Echo newspaper multiple times, interviewed on South City FM Radio, and mentioned in Psychic News Magazine. Steve Rider was mentioned in the Basingstoke Gazette newspaper. Steve Rider and Steve Gerrard participated in the Quest International Conference. SUFOG hosted an Open Day with Chris Martin speaking on "UFO's over London." Steve Gerrard, Steve Rider, and Bill Smith attended a talk by Tim Good at Waterstones Book Shop. BUFORA hosted a lecture by Ernie Sears in London. Ernie Sears was also mentioned in the Portsmouth News newspaper.

2001 In 2001, Ernie Sears was mentioned in the Portsmouth News newspaper and the Southampton Evening Echo newspaper (including a letter). Steve Gerrard, Ernie Sears, and Steve Rider were involved in filming for Discovery television's "Hooked on Hobbies." Steve Gerrard and Ernie Sears participated in the Meridian Television: Dorchester Conference, with Steve Gerrard also giving a lecture at the Dorchester Conference. Ernie Sears had a Radio Solent interview. SUFOG recorded UFO Footage at Netley Abbey. Steve Gerrard and Steve Rider gave a Southampton Astronomical Society lecture. Ernie Sears was mentioned in the Southampton Echo Weekend Magazine newspaper and lectured for Netley Abbey Towns Woman's Guild. Ernie Sears was also mentioned in the Southampton Sunday Independent newspaper. Steve Gerrard and Steve Rider participated in the Quest International Conference, with Steve Gerrard giving a short presentation. Steve Gerrard and Steve Rider also lectured for BUFORA. Steve Gerrard was mentioned in the November/December Edition of UFO Magazine and lectured for the Norwich UFO Group. SUFOG featured Steve Gerrard in German Magazine DEGUFORUM.

2002 The year 2002 saw Ernie Sears mentioned in the Portsmouth News newspaper and interviewed on Meridian Television with Steve Gerrard. Steve Gerrard was also interviewed on Meridian Television and gave a lecture for the London Talk (SPI England). Steve Rider gave a lecture for The Holistic Experience Group, Fareham (UFO's), and also had Radio Solent interviews. Ernie Sears had a letter published in the Southampton Evening Echo. Steve Gerrard and Steve Rider gave a WI HQ lecture in Winchester and participated in the Janus Conference in London. Steve Gerrard and Steve Rider also gave a WI Portsmouth Lecture. SUFOG organized an Avebury Sky Watch. Steve Gerrard was mentioned in the Isle of Wight County Press and Portsmouth News. Steve Gerrard also participated in a Crop Circle Convention in Andover. UFO Magazine featured an article by Ernie Sears, and SUFOG was mentioned in relation to a Janus Concert with Steve Gerrard and Steve Rider. Australian UFO Bulletin mentioned SUFOG. Steve Gerrard lectured for The Holistic Experience Group (Crop Circles) and participated in the Leeds Conference with Steve Rider.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance The recurring themes in this document are UFO sightings, lectures, media appearances, and conferences, primarily focusing on the activities of Steve Rider, Steve Gerrard, and Ernie Sears. The document serves as a chronological logbook, meticulously recording their involvement in various UFO-related events and discussions. There is no explicit editorial stance presented, but the detailed listing suggests a strong focus on documenting and disseminating information within the UFO research community, particularly in the southern England region (Southampton, Portsmouth). The consistent mention of SUFOG indicates its significance as a platform or organization for these activities.