UFO Brigantia issue 34

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: No. 34
Date: September/October 1988
Publisher: Independent UFO Network (IUN)
Description: A bi-monthly journal of UFO investigation, published by the Independent UFO Network (IUN), which aims to be a non-dogmatic, free-floating pool of active researchers and investigators.

Editorial Stance and Content

The editorial, titled "ANY OLD AEON?", critiques two publications: 'Inner Light - The Voice of the New Age' from the USA and 'QUEST' from Leeds. The editor expresses fascination with the motivations behind UFO publications. 'Inner Light' is criticized for its blend of 'hippy dippy new-age pseudo mysticism' and UFOs, suggesting it's a thinly disguised advertising vehicle for writers like Brad Steiger and Sherry Hansen, making money from gullible people. The editorial argues that this 'new age spirituality' mixes with UFOs, and contrasts it with true spiritual teachers who offer advice freely. It highlights a disturbing incident where a British grandmother killed her grandchildren to save them from alien abduction, illustrating the influence of 'off the wall ufology'. The editor warns against people being encouraged to 'channel for an alien intelligence' and base their lives on such advice, comparing it to the dangers of cults and belief systems that can form around the UFO subject.

The editorial also criticizes the 'QUEST' magazine and its associated group, YUFOS, for attacking BUFORA and the IUN. The IUN denies allegations of impersonating journalists to gain information from YUFOS, stating they possess good investigative skills. The IUN claims that all attempts at rational information exchange with YUFOS were met with hostility, and describes YUFOS's attitude as 'unparrelleled infantile jealousy'. The IUN points to a letter from YUFOS's 'Director of Research & Investigations', Mark Birdsall, who stated that YUFOS would be 'leading British Ufology', which the IUN finds indicative of a competitive rather than cooperative approach to ufology.

The magazine emphasizes the importance of co-operation and warns against the paranoia and self-advertisement seen in groups like YUFOS. It urges readers to seek copies of the 'QUEST' article and contradictory evidence to see the misrepresentation of the IUN and BUFORA. The editorial draws a parallel to the Cracoe Case and the Roundhay incident, suggesting history is repeating itself with YUFOS.

Key Articles and Features

"HELP-A HELICOPTER HAS LANDED ON MY CAR!" by David Clarke

This article discusses the recent wave of sightings of "V" or triangular shaped UFOs, suggesting a possible connection to the secret F-19 "stealth" aircraft. It highlights parliamentary interest, with MP Bill Cash requesting witness details for an official investigation. Leicester Ufologist Clive Potter and the author have been working to provide Mr. Cash with a database of sightings. The article also details reports of dangerously low-flying objects in South Yorkshire, with sightings forwarded to the Ministry of Defence and the Civil Aviation Authority as an 'official complaint'. The author suggests that if these sightings are officially attributed to military aircraft, it would be a significant victory for ufology.

Staffordshire Sightings

This section notes that recent UFO sightings in Staffordshire and Northamptonshire are identical to those reported from South Yorkshire. Articles in the 'Staffordshire Newsletter' featured local people describing strange, silent, triangular objects performing impossible manoeuvres. A group of five witnesses in Stafford provided a description similar to an experience reported by Mrs. Sage in a previous issue of UFO BRIGANTIA. Mrs. Eileen Ballard described two spotlights coming through the sky, followed by a triangular object flying low and silently, with red and green lights underneath.

Stealth Aircraft and UFOs

The article "'Fried' by Stealth" from The Guardian (19/9/88) is reprinted, detailing allegations by workers at the Lockheed plant building the F-19 Stealth fighter. Workers claim illnesses, including nausea, dizziness, memory lapses, and cancer, are due to chemicals critical to the plane's development. Lockheed denies the charges. The secrecy surrounding the F-19 complicates lawsuits, and federal safety officials have had trouble inspecting the plant. Experts suspect the cause to be glass-fibre and carbon-fibre composites and phenolic resin containing formaldehyde. The article also mentions investigations into Boeing's Auburn plant for similar issues.

Remotely Piloted Drones?

This section presents reports of other shorter-range Remotely Piloted Vehicles (RPVs) being mistaken for UFOs. One report from Swinton, South Yorkshire, describes a bright light that moved and was later seen as a wingless object with lights in banks, moving silently at low altitude, compared to a minibus in size. Another report from Grenoside, Sheffield, describes a similar object. The article suggests that these objects are being flown early in the morning to avoid detection.

"Phantom" Aircraft and Helicopters?

Student Sharon Lindsay reported seeing a "V" shaped flying object with bright red flashing lights moving slowly at low altitude near Sheffield. The object was described as solid and stable, making a whirring noise. The article questions whether this could be a helicopter, but deems it unlikely due to the low-level operation over a populated area. A separate report describes Mrs. Moira Taylor's experience of a "phantom helicopter" near Oban, Scotland, which appeared in front of her car, causing dents and scratches, similar to marks left in the Mundrabilla, Australian UFO encounter.

Other Content

The issue also includes an article by Manfred Cassirer comparing an alleged 'haunting' with an abduction, David Clarke's perceptive look at UFO cases, and a round-up of news items, gossip, rumours, and vitriol.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA strongly advocates for rational investigation and co-operation within the ufology community. It criticizes groups that engage in infighting, paranoia, and self-advertisement, particularly YUFOS. The magazine highlights the potential connection between advanced military aircraft like the F-19 Stealth and UFO sightings, while also reporting on various unexplained aerial phenomena. The editorial stance is one of open inquiry, encouraging the submission of articles on any aspect of ufology, no matter how controversial. The IUN positions itself as a facilitator of information exchange and investigation, respecting individual beliefs and aiming to uncover the truth about the UFO enigma.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: SEPT/OCT '88
Cover Headline: ROUNDHAY UNRAVELLING A MYSTERY

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA is heavily focused on a dispute between UFO research groups, primarily concerning the investigation of the Roundhay Park abduction case. The magazine positions itself as a defender of credible UFO research against what it perceives as discrediting tactics by other organizations.

Introduction: The Roundhay Park Controversy

The editorial introduces a conflict with the Yorkshire UFO Society's (YUFOS) publication QUEST. The author claims QUEST published an article that, while ostensibly about the 'Roundhay Park Abduction,' was primarily aimed at discrediting the author, David Clarke, Jenny Randles, and the British UFO Research Association (BUFORA), where they serve as council members. The author states that QUEST's article contained 'gibberish' and promises to present the 'truth' and address the main points of YUFOS's attack.

YUFOS Aims and Objectives

The author explains their resignation from the YUFOS executive committee after almost six years. They allege that YUFOS's primary aim was not to solve the UFO riddle but to attack other UFO researchers, specifically mentioning Jenny Randles and BUFORA. This alleged behavior culminated in a 'disgraceful manner' by YUFOS President Graham Birdsall at Andy Roberts's home, which nearly led to legal action and prompted the resignations of the author and other members.

The author asserts that YUFOS, in its latest QUEST issue, continued its attacks, mainly targeting the author and BUFORA, but also mentioning Jenny Randles and David Clarke. The attacks stem from their investigation into the Roundhay Park case. The author expresses sympathy for QUEST readers, suggesting they should question their allegiance to YUFOS after reading the facts presented in UFO BRIGANTIA.

YUFOS On The Attack

The article details the Roundhay Park incident, which began with two men being interviewed on Radio Aire on July 8. One man, an ex-special constable, claimed he was walking in Roundhay Park when he observed a purple glow that engulfed him, causing him to feel dizzy and black out. He later found himself in a room strapped to a 'bed' with 'furry' female beings prodding him. He blacked out again and awoke at 6:30 pm the following morning back in the park. He was allegedly found by a second man who had also witnessed the purple glow.

Following this radio report, YUFOS reportedly 'sprang into action,' engaging in what the author describes as a 'seek and destroy type mission' rather than an investigation. The author contrasts this with the approach of BUFORA/IUN, who they claim were trying to secure the witnesses and convince the press of the case's genuineness.

What Really Happened

UFO BRIGANTIA presents its version of events, contrasting it with YUFOS's claims. The author states that YUFOS set out to expose the case as a 'hoax,' focusing on the 'Roundhay Park Abduction' happening 'on their patch.' YUFOS allegedly claimed that sources praised their 'greatest ever field investigation.'

UFO BRIGANTIA details its own investigation, which began on July 6 when Hugh Pincott of ASSAP contacted them about witnesses seeking anonymity. The details were passed to Arnold West (BUFORA Chairman) and then to Jenny Randles (BUFORA Director of Investigations). The author received the details on July 7 and had the witnesses' names, addresses, and phone numbers from the start. While initially suspicious, they did not declare the case genuine until an investigation was complete.

UFO BRIGANTIA emphasizes that they did not rush to declare the case genuine and had the witnesses' information before YUFOS. They interviewed both witnesses, Mr. Cotran and Mr. Cohen, on July 10. They note that YUFOS, to their knowledge, had only spoken to Mr. Cohen. UFO BRIGANTIA describes their interview process as professional, unlike YUFOS's alleged tactics of parking outside the witness's home with hazard lights flashing and trailing the witness.

During their investigation, UFO BRIGANTIA found 'discrete enquiries' and 'suspects facts' suggesting the case might not be genuine. They transcribed the interview and compared it with the Radio Aire recording, finding discrepancies that confirmed their suspicions. They state that any publicity they requested was for other witnesses to come forward, not to hype the case.

UFO BRIGANTIA refutes YUFOS's claims that they fed the story to the YEP or that they 'dug up the park.' They also question the identity of 'Dr. Hopkins,' whom YUFOS claimed they had a meeting with. The magazine states that YUFOS's accusations of impersonating journalists are unfounded, and they challenge YUFOS to 'PUT UP OR SHUT UP.'

UFO BRIGANTIA's Conclusion

BUFORA/IUN conducted their investigation quietly and diplomatically, without seeking publicity or trying to silence the press, unlike YUFOS. UFO BRIGANTIA has documented proof from ASSAP and the YEP to support their claims. After further investigation and interviews, including with Mr. Cohen, UFO BRIGANTIA has labeled the case as 'PROBABLE HOAX.' They have requested a right to reply to the 'gibberish' published in QUEST.

The author suggests that YUFOS's wild accusations are disturbing and that many honest people are being misled. They quote a colleague who described QUEST as the 'ufological equivalent to the Sunday Sport.'

Review: Parapsychology And The UFO

The magazine includes a review of Manfred Cassirer's book, 'Parapsychology And The UFO.' The reviewer, also a BUFORA Council member and SPR member, notes that the book examines how aspects of ufology have counterparts in parapsychology. The reviewer finds the book's exploration of links between UFOs, parapsychological experiences, altered states of consciousness, and epilepsy particularly interesting. The main criticism is that the book is too short.

Incident at Wooton: Haunt or Abduction?

This section details a case from 1954 involving Mr. and Mrs. Allan, retold by Andrew Mackenzie based on research by Mary Rose Barrington. The Allans experienced a 'traumatic experience' while on a relaxing ramble. They missed their bus stop and ended up at Wooton Hatch, where they felt an 'aura of unreality.' Mrs. Allan described seeing 'men in black' with sinister features, experiencing paralysis and intense cold. Both fell asleep and later remembered going home by train. Mr. Allan was affected by 'fatigue and amnesia.'

Two years later, Mrs. Allan attempted to revisit the location, but the landscape had changed, making it unrecognizable. A local resident could not identify the place, and the description did not fit any known location. A puzzling detail was the absence of a wooden seat they remembered sitting on.

The case gained attention 30 years later when the Allans tried to draw the SPR's attention to it, but confusion reigned due to the SPR moving premises. Miss Barrington and Mr. Stiles of the SPR were also unable to find a topographical solution.

Mr. MacKenzie suggests the location might have been wrong, but the article argues that the presence of the Evelyn family tombs indisputably identifies the site. The author discusses the possibility of a 'haunting' versus a 'UFO-related' incident.

Features compatible with a haunting hypothesis include the apparitional nature of the figures, the 'thermal effect,' and the figures being bizarre and of unusual size. The 'Oz Factor' (altered state of consciousness) is also considered. However, the 'Missing Time' syndrome is presented as a strong indicator of UFO-relatedness, being a hallmark of classic abductions and virtually unknown in the psychic sphere.

The article contrasts the 'trance-like' effect of spectral perception with the 'phantasmagorial influence.' It notes that hauntings are typically replays of 'trivial nature' happenings within buildings. The Wooton case, however, is presented as potentially more significant.

The article discusses the possibility of the incident being an 'Abduction,' noting that in 1954, UFO sightings were not commonly linked to such experiences, unlike the later Betty and Barney Hill encounter in 1961. The 'Oz Factor' is again mentioned as being consistent with a UFO-type experience. The 'spectral seat' is compared to 'operating tables inside UFO's.' The 'Missing Time' and disorientation point towards an abduction scenario. The blocking out of ordinary noise, such as birdsong stopping, is also noted as common in UFO cases.

The article concludes by stating that the 'haunt-hypothesis' includes the apparitional nature of figures, thermal effects, and bizarre entities. The 'Oz Factor' might be part of a haunting syndrome. However, the 'time-lapse' alerts the author to consider the possibility of an abduction. UFO abductions are described as traumatic, unlike glimpses into other dimensions. The author notes that Mrs. Allan chose to hide behind a pseudonym due to the potential for skepticism and derision.

References are provided for the 'Incident at Wooton' section, citing works on hauntings, apparitions, and UFOs.

Letters to the Editor

Manfred Cassirer writes to Andy Roberts, inquiring about the restoration of two sections of Regina Cullen's article that were 'massacred' by the editor, suggesting they should be restored to their 'pristine intelligible form' for readers to judge for themselves.

C.D. Allan responds to Andy Roberts, finding Regina Cullen's review of Phil Klass's book 'hysterical.' Allan questions Cullen's 'nuts and bolts-er' stance and asks if she believes in teleportation. He notes that Arthur C. Clarke, quoted by Cullen, would likely agree with Klass. Allan points out that books like Strieber's 'Communion' and Hopkins's works have made significant money, suggesting public interest in such topics. He agrees with Roberts's editorial about the 'abduction craze' in the USA, questioning what has been achieved after decades of abductions and 'contactees.'

Christopher D. Allan writes to the editor, recommending John Rimmer's 'Evidence for Alien Abductions' and articles in 'Skeptical Inquirer' for a more grounded perspective on UFOs.

Regina Cullen responds to C.D. Allan's letter, questioning his intelligence and stating that teleportation is a 'documented fact.' She defends her paraphrasing of a quote and argues that books making money is not inherently wrong, especially if they tell the truth. She criticizes the notion that abductions and contactees should lead to progress and questions the 'ETH' (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis).

Andy Walmsley discusses the MJ-12 documents, suggesting that if they are part of a disinformation program, its perpetrators must be pleased with the resulting disarray within the UFO community. He notes the difficulty in determining the authenticity of the documents and the conflict arising from differing beliefs. He quotes Sir Mortimer Wheeler on 'archaeology' being a 'vendetta' and applies it to ufology.

C.D. Allan writes to Andy Roberts regarding John Lear's statements, questioning the impact of such 'trash' on ufology. He criticizes MUFON's appointment of John Lear as State Director for Nevada, noting Lear's father's connection to NICAP. Allan believes the USA has 'gone over the top' with such claims and that Lear's assertions about EBEs having a genetic disorder are misplaced, suggesting the disorder lies with 'terrestrial individuals.'

Robert Kelly responds to Andy Roberts, finding the 'JLS' (presumably referring to John Lear's statements) revealing but not surprising. He mentions a book where metal from a UFO was found to be a new NASA-produced metal. He questions the need for electromagnetically secure premises for EBEs and speculates about their claims of creating world religions, suggesting they could have been on Earth for a long time. He also considers underwater bases and the possibility of EBEs controlling monetary and media systems.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the internal disputes within the UFO community, particularly the conflict between YUFOS and BUFORA/IUN over the Roundhay Park case. The magazine strongly advocates for rigorous, evidence-based investigation and criticizes what it perceives as sensationalism, personal attacks, and unsubstantiated claims. There is a clear stance against 'hoax' accusations leveled without proper evidence and a defense of researchers like Jenny Randles and David Clarke. The issue also touches upon broader UFO topics like abductions, parapsychology, and the controversial MJ-12 documents, generally adopting a critical yet open-minded approach to evidence and interpretation.

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA, dated SEPT/OCT '88, delves into various aspects of ufology, with a strong emphasis on investigative journalism and critical analysis. The cover story, "Carlos Alberto Díaz Was a Hoaxer," by Roberto Enrique Banchs and Richard W. Heiden, presents a detailed debunking of a reported abduction case.

Feature Articles and Investigations

Carlos Alberto Díaz Was a Hoaxer

The lead article by Roberto Enrique Banchs and Richard W. Heiden, investigating for the Centro de Estudios de Fenomenos Aereos Inusuales (CEFAI), concludes that the abduction case reported in the APRO Bulletin of March 1975 was a hoax. The witness, Carlos Alberto Díaz, claimed to have been abducted on January 5, 1975, after work in Bahía Blanca. He described being paralyzed, pulled into a craft, and later waking up near Buenos Aires, 400 miles away. The investigation highlighted several discrepancies: the abduction site was described as deserted, yet it's usually busy; the bus schedule did not align with Díaz's timeline; and hospital records showed a later arrival time than claimed. Psychological assessments of Díaz revealed a tendency to exaggerate and a maladjusted personality. The authors present these points as sound arguments for the case being a hoax.

Teleportation

Following a review of a new book by Regina Cullen, subscriber Richard Heiden from the USA sent a photo-copy of a page from the APRO Bulletin, August 1977, referencing a 'teleportation' case. This case is also mentioned in Jenny Randles' book 'Abduction'.

News and Reports

New Book

"Parapsychology And the UFO," a new cross-disciplinary book by Manfred Cassirer, a BUFORA & SPR member, is available for £3.75 inc p&p from 38, Christchurch Avenue, London, NW6 7BE.

N.E.M. Moot

The eighth annual Northern Earth Mysteries Moot is scheduled for Saturday, October 29th, from 10:30 am to 9 pm at the Lecture Theatre, Chesterfield Library. Speakers include David Clarke on 'Celtic Survivals in the Peak District' and Philip Heselton on 'Philip Rodgers of Grindleford Space Voices and Earth Energies'. Tickets are £5 in advance (£2.50 for UB40) or £6 at the door.

IUN Reports

The IUN has released two comprehensive reports on UFO sighting 'flaps'. The 'AUGUST REPORT' by David Clarke details sightings in Northern England during August 1987. The 'HULL REPORT' by Gary Anthony focuses on sightings over the Humberside region on December 9, 1987. Each report includes newspaper clippings, letters from the MOD, police, and airfields. Reports cost £3 (inc p&p, £3.50 Europe, $6 USA) and are available from Dave Kelly, 103 Hunloke Drive, Walton, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S40 3EA.

Fly-By-Night?

This is a comprehensive investigation report detailing a massive wave of UFO sightings in the north between September 1987 and May 1988. It comprises over 130 pages and includes more than 150 individual UFO sighting reports, newspaper cuttings, maps, photographs, drawings, statistics, and letters from the MOD, airfields, and CAA. The report is priced at £8.50 (inc p&p) and is available from Dave Kelly.

For Sale and Wanted

For Sale

A list of books is provided for sale, including works by Charles Fort, D. Leslie, G. Adamski, Arthur Shuttlewood, Jaques Vallee, Steiger, P. Flammonde, P. Paget, I. Sanderson, Le Poer Trench, Hynek, R. Chapman, and Jenny Randles. Prices range from £1 to £13.95, including postage. Orders should be made out to 'Martin Dagless'.

Wanted

The magazine is looking for copies of 'Jadoo' by John Keel, 'Black Thursday' by Martin Caidin, 'A Look Through Secret Doors' (1969) by Macklin, and 'Earthlink Magazine' no. 12 (October 1982).

Columns and Commentary

Twinkles

This section provides a roundup of UFO gossip and news. It discusses the difficulty in distinguishing genuine UFOs from military aircraft or natural phenomena, mentioning a sign for alien craft seen in the USA. It also touches upon alleged US government contact with aliens ('EBE's' and 'Grays') and the removal of exotic animals from zoos. The section references the Nevada Aerial Research Newsletter (N.A.R.N.) as a source of ufological folklore. It also brings up the topic of animal mutilations, referencing 'Mutology' and Linda Moulton Howe's work.

Myths in the Making

David Langford critically examines the book 'An Account Of A Meeting With Denizens of Another World, 1871,' revealing it to be a hoax. He discusses how science-fiction authors can inadvertently contribute to ufological folklore and expresses a preference for sticking to science fiction rather than off-trail phenomena. Langford also mentions the rumored appearance of an EBE with the US President on television and the controversy surrounding the Gulf Breeze case.

UFO & Space Age Publications

A comprehensive list of UFO and space age publications is provided, with titles, authors, formats (hardback/paperback), and prices. The list includes books on UFO contact, extraterrestrials, and specific cases, as well as magazines like 'Fortean Times'.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA demonstrates a clear editorial stance favoring critical investigation and skepticism towards unsubstantiated claims. The debunking of the Carlos Alberto Díaz case highlights the magazine's commitment to scrutinizing evidence. The "Twinkles" column, while sharing gossip, also touches on the need for evidence, and David Langford's "Myths in the Making" directly addresses the creation and perpetuation of hoaxes within ufology. The magazine encourages readers to demand concrete proof and to be discerning about the information they consume, particularly in the realm of 'off-trail phenomena'. There's a recurring theme of distinguishing between genuine phenomena and fabricated stories, with a nod to the potential for science fiction to blur these lines. The publication also serves as a platform for promoting ufological literature and events, acting as a hub for the UK UFO community.