UFO Brigantia issue 35

Magazine Overview

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: No. 35
Date: November-December 1988
Publisher: The Independent UFO Network (I.U.N.)
Country: UK
Language: English

UFO BRIGANTIA, the journal of the Independent UFO Network (I.U.N.), presents its November-December 1988 issue, number 35. The magazine's tagline is "The magazine that believes at least six impossible things before breakfast." The editor is Andy Roberts, with IUN contacts including Martin Dagless and Philip Mantle. The cover features an illustration of a humanoid alien figure in a landscape, with the title prominently displayed.

Editorial

The editorial, dated November/December 1988, begins with holiday wishes for Christmas and 1989. The editor reflects on the recurring theme of 'the truth about extraterrestrials' being revealed each year, urging readers not to hold their breath for 1989. The editorial emphasizes that the 'contact' aspect – with extraterrestrial intelligences, abductions, and similar phenomena – is central to ufology, providing its image and driving its investigation. It critiques the simplistic and scientifically unlikely 'Extraterrestrial Hypothesis' (ETH) while also dismissing debunkers who attribute everything to the mind. The editor notes the influence of works by John Keel and Jacques Vallee, and the current fashion for 'channeling' and associated phenomena, drawing parallels to earlier claims of 'space brothers.' The article by Phil Hine is highlighted, exploring the connection between magic and consciousness, and how magicians have historically claimed contact with entities.

The editorial further discusses how human consciousness interacts with its environment, other brains, culture, dreams, and mythologies, suggesting that altered states of consciousness (ASC) are key to understanding phenomena like channeling and abductions. Jenny Randles is credited for bringing ASCs to the forefront of ufological discussion with her 'OZ Factor.' The piece argues that the answers lie closer to home than extraterrestrial explanations, offering a way to understand these experiences without denial or ridicule. It suggests that the belief in ETs provides a comforting framework for many, offering something to worship or fight against, rather than taking responsibility for their own mental lives.

Articles and Features

Peter Beard Photographs Update

This section, by Philip Mantle, provides an update on the Peter Beard photographs, which were featured in the Jan/Feb 1988 issue under the title 'CLICKNOLOGY.' Dr. Bruce Maccabee, an optical physicist for the US Navy, has completed an in-depth analysis of these photographs. The article reprints the story of the initial sighting on August 5th, 1987, when Peter Beard, an unemployed bricklayer in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, reported seeing a strange, buzzing object and took four photographs. The investigation involved interviews with Peter and his common-law wife Angie, checks with authorities, and negative responses from the police and MOD. The article notes that this occurred during a period of high UFO activity in Northern England.

Nigel Smith, BUFORA's photographic consultant, initially suggested the photos were fakes (images stuck on a window). However, a second opinion from professional photographer Tony Marshall ruled out birds and aircraft. A further analysis was sought from Dr. Bruce Maccabee. The article includes extracts from Dr. Maccabee's analysis dated July 26, 1988. He states that he cannot positively verify the case as a hoax but notes that the photos are "almost completely consistent with the 'paste a UFO on a window' trick." He concludes that the object "didn't do anything that a paste-on couldn't do" and that while the photos don't prove a hoax, they raise questions. He suggests that a convincing UFO candidate must demonstrate something difficult to fake, which these photos do not. Dr. Maccabee's full analysis is 29 pages long and a complete report is expected next year.

Reviews

PHOTOGRAPHING THE SPIRIT WORLD, Images From Beyond The Spectrum by Cyril Permutt:

Reviewed by David Clarke, this book is described as a well-written and informative tome that goes beyond mere speculation. Permutt's research into photography and the paranormal uncovers a "solid core of inexplicable supernormal photographs." The review notes that photographs of 'ghosts' share paradoxes with UFO photography and that Permutt seems unaware of similar luminous blob photos in UFOlogy. The book explores the 'phantom monk' of Chingle Hall as a 'ball of light' and suggests ghosts might be a form of electromagnetic energy. Despite a lack of awareness of other researchers, the book is considered well worth reading for its thought-provoking speculations on consciousness and the electromagnetic spectrum.

DISNEYLAND OF THE GODS by John A. Keel:

Reviewed by Werdner Strebor, this book is described as a "Best Of" collection of Vallee's previous UFO works. The reviewer finds it disappointing, lacking new ufology insights. Vallee's work is criticized for vagueness regarding the 'UFO Phenomenon' and for attributing interpretations to ancient amulets and 'Ancient Astronauts.' While acknowledging Vallee's expertise in belief and perception, the reviewer feels he hedges by talking about 'control' and 'conditioning,' calling it a "cop-out." The book's dust jacket is deemed more evocative than its contents. The review mentions Vallee's speculation that governments are part of a control system for human evolution. The reviewer concludes that Vallee "just doesn't go far enough."

DIMENSIONS: A Casebook of Alien Contact by Jacques Vallee:

Reviewed by Andy Roberts, this book is described as a "Best Of" compilation of Vallee's previous UFO works. Roberts notes that while it's fine as a collection, it lacks new insights. Vallee's assumptions and vagueness about the 'UFO Phenomenon' are criticized. The review highlights Vallee's discussion of 'control systems' and his speculation about human evolution being influenced by such systems. The reviewer suggests that the book's dust jacket, depicting a lonely road, is more compelling than the content, and that Vallee "just doesn't go far enough."

Other Content

Editorial Stance and IUN Information

The Independent UFO Network (IUN) was formed in September 1987, emerging from the West Yorkshire UFO Research Group and the West Yorkshire UFO Network. It operates as a non-dogmatic, free-floating pool of researchers. The IUN maintains a policy of "total freedom of information" and keeps its case files open for inspection. They hold no fixed viewpoint on the nature of the UFO enigma but are known to "poke fun" at strange beliefs. Membership is free, requiring only a willingness to further the network's aims and assist with workload. The IUN also operates a 24 UFO Hotline and is involved in Project Pennine, a study of anomalous light phenomena in the Pennine region.

The journal's name, 'BRIGANTIA,' is derived from an old Celtic word for a geographical area stretching northwards from the Wash to Scotland. The magazine's ethos is described as "geccentric scepticism."

Contents

The contents page lists articles such as "Editorial," "Beard Photo Update," "Reviews," "Morons From Inner Space," "Yorkshire's Crashed UFO," "It's Competition Time!," "Letters," "News," and "UFO's & the Celtic Otherworld."

Network 7 and UFO Coverage

A piece discusses a segment on the TV show Network 7 that investigated a "real" journalist's attempt to track down a sensational UFO story from the Sunday Sport. The segment debunked the story and also featured Claude Vorhilion, a Raelian leader, and ufologist Mike Wooten. The article criticizes Network 7's superficial approach to complex subjects and notes the appearance of 'professional UFO witness' Alan Godfrey.

"Nuff Said"

This section contains a philosophical reflection on belief, dreams, and the emergence of a "sacred experience utterly disconnected from its usual cultural channels," possibly related to UFO abductions being viewed as religious folklore.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of UFO Brigantia demonstrates a commitment to rigorous, albeit skeptical, investigation of UFO phenomena. The editorial stance is one of open-mindedness tempered with critical analysis, as exemplified by the detailed examination of the Peter Beard photographs. The magazine encourages reader participation through letters and submissions, and actively debunks sensationalism while exploring the psychological and cultural aspects of the UFO experience. The IUN's non-dogmatic approach and emphasis on freedom of information are central to its identity. The recurring theme is the complex nature of belief, perception, and the interpretation of anomalous experiences, whether they are attributed to extraterrestrials, other dimensions, or internal psychological states.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: NOV/DEC '88
Volume: 19
Date: November/December 1988
Publisher: UFO BRIGANTIA
Country: UK
Cover Headline: Morons from Inner Space?

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA features a critical examination of the New Age phenomenon of channeling, titled "Morons from Inner Space?" by Phil Hine. Hine, co-editor of Pagan News and editor of Chaos International magazine, argues that channeling has become a commercialized practice, driven by the pursuit of money rather than genuine spiritual insight. The magazine also delves into the 1957 Silpho Moor UFO crash case, presenting it as a potentially elaborate hoax.

Morons from Inner Space? A Critical Look at Channeled Communications by Phil Hine

Phil Hine critiques the rise of channeling in the 1980s, contrasting it with earlier spiritualist movements. He describes modern channelers as "new gurus" who offer messages of "cosmic love, health and happiness," often for profit. Hine suggests that channeling has evolved from a spiritual pursuit to a "plug-in religion" for "yuppies," generating significant revenue, estimated at $400 million annually in the USA. He likens the process to a form of "easy-access therapy" and "cosmic technologies" that encourage people to "pay up and blank out."

Hine draws parallels between contemporary channeling and the 19th-century Spiritualist Medium boom, noting that both offered a direct line to the "beyond." However, he points out that while Spiritualists engaged in phenomena like table-rapping, channelers claim direct possession by entities. These entities, sporting names like Ramtha, Mafu, and Lazaris, are presented as "higher beings" who deliver messages and then depart, leaving the channeler with a sense of serenity.

He argues that the messages from these entities are often platitudinous, focusing on themes of love, harmony, and self-acceptance, using jargon like "rays, chakras, auras, colours." Hine suggests that the entities' messages remain consistent, but their "mailing addresses" change with popularity. He notes the trend of entities being associated with endangered species like dolphins, linking it to a potential guilt complex among affluent Westerners seeking spiritual enlightenment.

Hine also explores the idea that these channeled entities might be constructs, akin to artificial intelligence, designed to establish rapport and interface with human consciousness. He references Dion Fortune's concept of entities creating "masks" from human memories to facilitate contact. He contrasts the passive nature of channeling with the more active, boundary-pushing approach of magicians who test the validity of their contacts through ritual and symbolism.

The author posits that the quality of channeled communications often degenerates over time, becoming "cosmic mind-mush." He observes that as recipients become more ego-involved with an entity, the messages become less original, potentially leading to the formation of small cults around the channeler. Hine questions the nature of these contacts, suggesting that the interpretation of their reality says more about human psychology than the entities themselves.

He critiques the idea that channeled messages are inherently benign, contrasting them with the more aggressive alien encounters reported in the 1950s. He suggests that the current "soft-sell approach" of "love us to death" is a more effective strategy for entities seeking to influence humanity. The messages often promote a materialistic spirituality, encouraging self-love and financial success.

Hine touches upon the idea of psychic energy sharing through crystals and the messages about AIDS, which range from karma to social engineering. He highlights a lack of discrimination among channelers, who may interact with entities without proper vetting, unlike magicians who employ rigorous testing methods.

He concludes that the messages, while sometimes sounding profound, are often superficial and lack substance. The entities are presented as being part of a "higher-authority" control program, offering a form of escapism that avoids challenging the ego. This makes channeling attractive to those who seek comfort and validation without confronting difficult realities.

The Mystery of the Silpho Saucer by Jenny Randles

Jenny Randles investigates the 1957 Silpho Moor UFO crash, a case she initially dismissed as myth until clinical psychologist Dr. John Dale shared his findings. The incident occurred on November 21, 1957, when three men—Frank Dickenson, Fred Taylor, and Mr. Thomas—witnessed a "round spherical glow" crash on Silpho Moor near Scarborough.

Dickenson retrieved a fragment of the object, described as a dark metallic craft about 18 inches in diameter and weighing 35 lbs. The object had a curved disc top and a conical base, with a hollow copper tube running vertically through the center, surrounded by a copper coil. It contained "heiroglyphs" that formed a lengthy message.

Dr. Dale arranged for an unnamed scientist from Manchester University's Metallurgy Department to analyze the object. The analysis revealed the object was primarily made of lead, with triple-laminated copper foil unusual for 1957. Crucially, tests showed the metal had never been operated in air above 150 degrees Celsius, indicating it had not entered Earth's atmosphere from space. The metallurgist concluded it was the result of complex, skilled work, with an estimated cost of £40, significantly more than Fred Taylor allegedly paid.

The decoded message, attributed to an entity named Ullo, claimed that no alien UFOs had ever landed on Earth and that space travel was impossible. The message was interrupted by another entity, Tarngee, who explained Ullo was injured while repairing a spaceship. Tarngee described a world with six-foot-tall inhabitants and a gender imbalance, and expressed a desire for communication despite council objections.

The mini-UFO was revealed to be an altered space probe vehicle designed to crash land without signals, intended to prove their messages were not a "toy." Tarngee, a renegade, wanted contact because she heard Earth's music.

Randles notes discrepancies in witness names and dates across different reports, with some sources citing December 1st as the sighting date and others November 21st. She also mentions a claim that the mystery couple who supposedly owned the UFO contacted FD, offering to sell it.

Conclusions on the Silpho Moor Case:

Randles concludes that the Silpho Moor incident was likely a hoax, possibly influenced by the recent launch of Russian Sputniks and the public fascination with space. She points to the convenient appearance of the man and woman, the sophisticated message, and the object's construction as evidence of a well-organized con trick. Despite the likely hoax, she notes the case's cost and organization, and the fact that the hoaxers never seemed to profit from it, leaving a "faintly puzzling air to the matter."

Other Records

Brief mentions are made of other UFO-related records, including those from BUFORA and a Tyneside UFO group, which offered new data and contradictory information. A light-bulb shaped object sighting in Chapletown, Leeds, on November 22nd, and a meteor sighting on November 29th are noted. The Cynthia Appleton CE3 case in Birmingham is also mentioned.

Brigantia Comment

The editorial comment on the Silpho Moor case suggests that the story was a "crash retrieval on our own doorstep" that went largely unnoticed by the public. The editor spoke to a reporter who considered it a hoax and knew the people involved but would not elaborate. The whereabouts of the saucer remain unknown, with one suggestion that it was displayed in a fish and chip shop without a location. The comment concludes that the truth of the case is lost to time, labeling it another "complicated and expensive hoax."

Its_Competition Time

UFO BRIGANTIA announces a Christmas competition, inviting readers to complete a crossword, identify ufologists from photographs, and finish a sentence about the magazine. Prizes include a free subscription and original UFO photographs.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a critical and skeptical stance towards phenomena like channeling, viewing it as a commercialized and potentially deceptive practice. It contrasts this with more rigorous investigations into UFO cases, such as the Silpho Moor incident, which it ultimately concludes was a hoax. The editorial tone suggests a desire to uncover the truth behind UFO claims, even when those truths are mundane or involve deception. There is an underlying theme of questioning authority and established narratives, whether they come from "higher beings" or official sources. The magazine also engages with its readership through competitions and by referencing historical UFO cases and figures, aiming to foster a community of critical inquiry within the UFO field.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: NOV/DEC 88
Publisher: UFO BRIGANTIA
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA, dated November/December 1988, features a cover story titled "THE WAY THEY WERE" accompanied by photographs of individuals associated with ufology. The magazine includes a letters section, various reports, and articles delving into the connections between UFO phenomena and mythology.

Cover Features

The cover presents "THE WAY THEY WERE" with four numbered captions identifying individuals. Image 1 shows two young men, possibly UFO researchers from circa 1978. Image 2 depicts a "Merseyside terror of ufology" from the 1970s. Image 3 shows someone receiving an 'Investigator of the Year' trophy. Image 4 identifies an author and editor of a UK UFO 'zine, seen in 1973.

Letters Section

The letters section is a prominent part of this issue, featuring correspondence from readers and critical commentary.

"Sense From Cheshire"

This letter, from Eric Morris of Cheshire UFO Studies Centre, congratulates the magazine on a recent article about YUFOS. However, it strongly criticizes YUFOS, accusing them of being "FICTION writers" and a "nuisance to British ufology." The correspondent details an incident where CIFOSC confronted YUFOS about their article on HMS NORFOLK during the Rendlesham Forest Incident, claiming that the ship never left harbour as YUFOS stated. YUFOS allegedly ignored this information and refused to respond. The letter asserts that the Birdsalls (associated with YUFOS) are not ufologists but fiction writers, and that they have witnesses connected to security services. The writer expresses frustration that when contacting the "establishment" (presumably related to UFO research), he was asked if he belonged to YUFOS, with the response, "Thank God for that....they're always pestering us and the MOD over trivial matters." The letter concludes by stating that YUFOS should "disappear down a Black Hole" as they are an embarrassment and their claim to be "Leaders of British Ufology" is pathetic. The writer challenges YUFOS to respond to the HMS NORFOLK questions.

Editor's Comment on "Sense From Cheshire"

The editor acknowledges Eric's letter, stating that it was one of many on the subject. The editor confirms that "Behind the scenes' moves to attempt a reconciliation between YUFOS and the rest of the world are afoot, but don't hold your breath." Regarding the HMS NORFOLK, the editor makes a humorous remark about it teleporting and being in two places at once.

"A Critic Writes"

This correspondent addresses the editor directly, accusing him of being a "Hochstetter" (a term from John Keel's "Disneyland of the Gods") for not having "concrete evidence." The writer criticizes the magazine for "invective and vitriol" and for ignoring essential information, such as the "surgical" technique of mutilations. The correspondent references the John Lear statement and criticizes "prejudice that sounds like the very 'extremists, cultists and fools' you castigate." The writer requests the magazine be read in "more salubrious surroundings than the loo." A paragraph from American author George Andrews is included, mentioning a dossier from CNRS in France containing information similar to the John Lear Statement. Information from Andrews' book "Extraterrestrials Amongst Us" about Mrs. Iona Hoeppner, a science teacher with degrees in physics, biology, and chemistry, is also cited. Mrs. Hoeppner's examination of a cut on a mutilated animal revealed that "Not one single cell had been destroyed" and the incision was made "between the cells, cell by cell."

Regina Cullen's Letter

Regina Cullen writes to express dissatisfaction with the magazine's "humourous" word "unexpurgated" in reference to her review. She argues that the editor's excuse of "two short bits missing" is insufficient, as her mistakes were "far more than two" and made parts of her article "absolutely unintelligible." She accuses the magazine of being "Sloppy about the truth even in non-ufological matters." She concludes by stating she will not provide further material.

Editor's Note on Regina Cullen's Letter

The editor notes that it's good to know people read Brigantia thoroughly. He comments on cattle mutilations being real and teleportation being an everyday occurrence in Brighouse. He dismisses the tales of Colarado schoolteachers with degrees, microscopes, and friendly sheriffs, stating that the point of the mutilations saga is that investigators are "amateurs" and not trained to ascertain how an animal has died. He recommends reading "MUTE EVIDENCE" over FSR. Regarding George Andrews' book, he states he's "saying nowt" but recommends reading it. He expresses skepticism about the John Lear statement, regardless of who issues it, focusing on the source of the information. He states that names and organization acronyms do not impress him.

"Another Critic Writes"

This correspondent, a recipient of a gift subscription, expresses reservations about the magazine's perceived obsession with the idea that extraterrestrials are not visiting Earth. The writer states that "John Lear is fundamentally right" and praises his work. The correspondent claims personal experience of "visitors" and mentions "at least two bases in locations beneath the Scottish Highlands where you can see the UFO's landing on an almost daily basis." These locations are allegedly masked as military bases.

Alan Staithes' Letter

Alan Staithes writes from Preston, suggesting that one of the alien/military bases mentioned might be at Holy Loch and underwater. He urges Scottish ufologists to investigate and believes that "We are being deluded by our elected masters whilst they desperately try to come to terms with the aliens." He states that "people like Lear are right and should be heeded."

Editor's Note on Alan Staithes' Letter

The editor welcomes all points of view but questions the idea of "elected masters." He finds the idea of gift subscriptions "whizzo" and challenges anyone claiming knowledge of alien/military bases or crashed UFOs to "cut the waffling and let's see some hard facts."

Important Subscription News

UFO BRIGANTIA announces a new subscription deal in conjunction with Northern UFO News, edited by Jenny Randles. The current subscription for UFO BRIGANTIA is £7:00 per year (UK rates), and for Northern UFO News it is £6:00 for six issues. Subscribing to both separately costs £13. The new joint subscription offer is £11 for a year, providing one magazine per month (alternating between UFO BRIGANTIA and NORTHERN UFO NEWS), totaling over 250 pages a year. This is not a merger, and each magazine will retain its character. The dating of UFO BRIGANTIA will change from Jan/Feb to the month of issue starting in January 1989.

News...News...News...

'CREDIBLE WITNESS' IN INCREDIBLE NAME CHANGE SHOCK

Michael Cotran of Leeds has changed his name to "Sun-Med" in protest about his holiday. The article notes that the SUN newspaper (14/10/88) refers to one of the human beings connected with the Roundhay case, suggesting that both YUFOS and IUN were correct in this instance, and that the witness does not want anonymity.

WANTED

Raymond Shaw (BUFORA & NUFORC) is seeking a copy of John Keel's "The Cosmic Question." Contact details are provided.

IUN REPORTS

The IUN has released three reports:
1. The AUGUST REPORT (David Clarke): Sightings during the August 1987 flap (30+ pages, £3:00).
2. The HULL REPORT (Gary Anthony): Investigation of a UFO flap over Hull on December 9, 1987 (same price).
3. FLY-BY-NIGHT (David Clarke): A 150+ page report chronicling a major UFO wave in 1988, including sightings, newspaper cuttings, maps, photographs, and letters from the MOD. This is a limited edition available for £8:50.

Contact for these reports is Dave Kelly.

BOOKS

The IUN offers a fluctuating stock of UFO books, magazines, and ephemera for sale. They are also interested in buying UFO ephemera, books, magazines, and models.

UFO ABDUCTIONS AND THE CELTIC OTHERWORLD

This article by David Clarke explores the parallels between UFO abductions and ancient Celtic folklore and mythology.

Parallels with Celtic Beliefs

The article begins with a quote from John Gregson Campbell's "Superstitions of the Highlands of Scotland" describing Celtic beings as unsubstantial, invisible, and dwelling underground or in hills.

Whitley Strieber's Experiences

Whiteley Strieber is quoted stating that his abduction experiences might not be from alien spacecraft but from "the old gods." He likens the creatures to the ancient Mesopotamian Goddess Ishtar, noting the distinctive staring eyes. John Keel is also mentioned for tracing UFO entity names back to Greek mythology, such as Ishtar and Ashtar.

Celtic Gods and UFO Entities

The article highlights the similarity between the large, dark, lenticular eyes described by UFO witnesses and the eyes found on depictions of Celtic Gods. It notes that the Brigantes, a Celtic tribe from which UFO Brigantia takes its name, were associated with supernatural creatures like goblins and elves, often described as tall and shining, inhabiting mounds and haunted places. The beings in the Kelly-Hopkinsville, Kentucky, 1955 encounter are compared to these Celtic figures.

Longdendale Valley Phenomena

In the High Peak of Derbyshire, a local farming community has been observing strange luminous flying objects for hundreds of years. They are reluctant to discuss these phenomena, considering them "private." A local ranger reported that residents "wouldn't admit seeing it, and did not even want to discuss the matter." One farmer mentioned that "The Light" had been known to freeze young lambs and had been occurring for generations, usually about thirty or fifty years apart.

Reasons for Reluctance and Surviving Beliefs

The reluctance to speak about these phenomena is attributed to the fact that the Longdendale Valley, like other Pennine regions, is one of the few areas where communities still believe in the pagan Celtic religion, including the worship of the 'Earth Mother' and the 'Horned God.' Carved stone heads, dating back to the Iron Age, are seen as surviving icons of this belief and are found throughout the Pennine valleys. In parts of Cheshire, Derbyshire, and Yorkshire, these stone heads were historically used to cure illness, encourage fertility, and combat ghosts. In Longdendale Valley and parts of the Yorkshire Dales, local belief identifies these heads with "The Old Ones," ancient Celtic deities and spirits.

Celtic Head Carvings

The article describes Celtic head carvings as often having expressionless faces, prominent elongated eyes, flat noses, and slit mouths. These sculptures often give a two-dimensional, mask-like impression and can be tricephalic (three-faced), like the example from Melandra Castle near Glossop.

The Triple Goddess and UFOs

The Triple Goddess, a Celtic deity depicted with three faces, is associated with the Moon, explaining the owl-like eyes of some UFO entities. The article notes that several important UFO flaps occur during lunar standstills and planetary alignments, citing the August 1987 wave coinciding with a major lunar standstill and planetary alignment. Strieber's experiences are noted to have a symbolic centre in the number three and triangular shapes, with visitors appearing in threes and projecting triangular lights.

Men in Black (MIB) and Mythology

The article references Gray Barker's book "Flying Saucers and the Three Men" (1956) and the tradition of the "Men in Black" (MIB) working in teams of three. This is compared to the "Trinity of Evil" (Devil and two lieutenants) from a French manuscript of the Holy Grail, which pondered the birth of Merlin.

The Otherworld and UFO Occupants

Parallels are drawn between UFO phenomena and ancient mythology, particularly the Celtic "Otherworld" (Tir n'Og), described as a place of enchantment, abundance, and inexhaustible plenty. Descriptions of UFO occupants' home planets by contactees are said to be similar. The Otherworld is depicted as a place of peace and harmony, but with internal conflicts that could be influenced by human intervention. The concept of the Otherworld transcending human time and space is discussed, with examples from Irish stories like "The Wasting Sickness of Cu Chu lainn."

Reaching the Otherworld

In Celtic mythology, the Otherworld could be reached through caves, lakes, magic mist, boats, or sudden insight. The "Plain of the Two Mists" is mentioned. The famous Aveley abduction in 1974, involving a strange green mist and missing time, is cited as an example where the Avis family's experience would have been interpreted as an abduction to fairyland in earlier times. The magic boat or vessel to the fairy Otherworld is equated with today's "fabulous disc-shaped objects."

Fairy Encounters and UFO Abductions

A classic example of an encounter with 'fairies' from 19th-century Cornish folklore is presented: William Noy, a farmer, disappeared for three days and described riding over unfamiliar country, seeing "brilliantly illuminated" lights and a "strange 'house'" with small-statured beings. He encountered Grace Hutchens, a girl who had previously disappeared. She warned him not to eat or drink fairy offerings, stating that "Their lives seem unnatural and a sham." The tale of William Noy's experience includes motifs found in UFO abduction reports: unaccountable missing time, a "trance-like sleep," unfamiliar surroundings, paralysis, and the presence of small beings and luminosity. The story concludes with Noy finding normal life unattractive after his experience.

Modern Parallels

Whitley Strieber's experiences are again referenced, noting that encounters with 'Visitors' often occur in isolated areas, under darkness, similar to conditions for medieval fairy encounters. The inability of present-day UFO abductees to produce souvenirs of their visits is compared to mortals visiting fairyland being prevented from bringing back items. Dramatic changes in the lives of those who have visited 'fairyland' or 'UFOland' are noted, including an "explosion of spiritual awareness and understanding," leading some to become healers and mystics.

17th Century Fairyland Visit

A 17th-century story from St. Treath, Cornwall, describes Anne Jeffries being found in a dazed condition after being attacked by six small creatures. She experienced a sensation of flying and found herself in 'fairyland' with many expressionless faces and triangular noses.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include the ongoing debate and criticism surrounding the UFO group YUFOS, the exploration of deep connections between UFO phenomena and ancient mythology (particularly Celtic), and the personal accounts and interpretations of UFO encounters and abductions. The editorial stance appears to be critical of unsubstantiated claims and sensationalism, while remaining open to genuine investigation and evidence, as indicated by the editor's notes and responses to letters. There is a clear emphasis on distinguishing between serious ufological investigation and what the magazine considers to be fiction or unsubstantiated speculation. The magazine also promotes a collaborative approach with other UFO publications, as evidenced by the subscription offer with Northern UFO News.

Title: UFO BRIGANTIA
Issue: NOV/DEC '88 (Volume 32)
Publisher: UFO BRIGANTIA
Country: UK
Language: English

This issue of UFO BRIGANTIA delves into the fascinating parallels between ancient fairy folklore and modern UFO abduction phenomena, suggesting that contemporary beliefs about aliens and spaceships are a modern manifestation of age-old human narratives.

The Fairy Realm and Modern Mythology

The central theme of the magazine is the evolution of supernatural beliefs, tracing how tales of fairies, goblins, and demons, once prevalent in Western Europe, have been replaced by a modern folklore centered on flying saucers and space people. The publication posits that the hidden fears and dreams of mankind, as we approach the 21st century, are reflected in these contemporary imaginary visitors from outer space.

Historical Accounts of Fairy Encounters

The issue presents several historical accounts to support its thesis:

• Anne's Healing Powers: In the 17th century, an individual named Anne developed the power of a healer after encountering small beings described as "strolling in gardens of exotic flowers." Following a quarrel between her abductors and another group of fairies, Anne was lifted into the air. Her fame as a fairy-inspired healer spread, attracting people seeking cures. She was later imprisoned on suspicion of witchcraft but claimed to have survived on "fairy food." The article notes the ancient fear of fairies substituting a "changeling" for a human baby, a tradition linked to bringing vitality to the fairy race, which was believed to be in decline.

• Jack Wilson's Sighting (1857): An inhabitant of Martindale, Westmoreland, named Jack Wilson, recounted an experience while crossing Sandwick Rigg. He perceived a large number of fairies engaged in diversions, using a ladder that reached from the ground up into a cloud. Upon discovering his presence, the fairies retreated up the ladder and disappeared. Wilson's concluding words were, "Yance gane, ae gane, an nivver saw mair o'them."

• David Williams' Encounter (19th Century): A story from the Reverend Elias Owen's 1887 book on Welsh folklore describes an encounter with what were called 'fairies' or 'Tylwyth Tegn' (Welsh for 'little men'). David Williams, a servant, was returning home late one dark night when he observed a brilliant meteor followed by a ring or hoop of fire. Within this hoop stood a small man and woman, who then jumped out and began to make a circle on the ground. A large number of men and women appeared, and enchanting music commenced. The scene was so captivating that Williams stayed for what he thought were a few minutes. The ground was lit by a subdued light, and he observed their movements. The meteor reappeared, the fiery hoop returned, and the lady and gentleman who had arrived in it jumped back in, disappearing as they had arrived. The fairies then vanished, leaving Williams alone in darkness. He accounted for a three-hour delay in his journey by this experience, which he described as a "fairy dance seeming as a few minutes."

Modern Interpretations and UFO Abductions

The magazine draws a direct parallel between these historical fairy encounters and modern UFO abduction experiences. It highlights that the belief in fairies interbreeding with humans is still alive today, with thousands of followers of ufologists like Budd Hopkins subscribing to the idea that aliens are abducting humans for impregnation. The article criticizes this perspective, suggesting that these experiences are as old as mankind and that the current belief in aliens is merely a product of the Space Age, a reflection of our obsession with visitors from outer space.

• Hopkins' Fairies: The article describes Hopkins' fairies as modern, riding in gleaming spaceships and abducting humans for impregnation with alien foetuses.

• The 'Missing Time' Phenomenon: The concept of 'Tylwyth Tegn' living in caves and potholes and being seen "dancing under the moon in magic circles" is linked to the modern phenomenon of 'Missing Time,' which is now often addressed through hypnotic regression to extract hidden memories.

• UFO Interior Descriptions: The magazine points out the absurdities in some UFO abduction stories, citing Alan Godfrey's description of a UFO cabin that was circular yet had corners, a carpet, and a dog. It also mentions Woodrow Derenberger's account of a UFO ride that included bunk-beds, a CB radio, and ufonauts traveling in ordinary automobiles. The author questions whether extraterrestrial visitors would use CB radios or adopt names from Greek or Celtic mythology.

The True Origin of UFOs?

The article suggests that the true origin of these phenomena might be from Planet Earth itself, referencing Whitley Strieber's idea that the planet could be alive and conscious, and that perhaps the "Old Religion" is true, with ancient gods and goddesses becoming concerned about humanity's trajectory.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme is the cyclical nature of human belief in the supernatural and the uncanny. The magazine's stance appears to be critical of the literal interpretation of UFO abductions as extraterrestrial events, instead framing them as a modern continuation of ancient folklore and psychological phenomena. It encourages readers to consider the historical context and the possibility that these experiences are rooted in human consciousness and Earthly origins rather than solely extraterrestrial visitation. The publication emphasizes that the underlying narratives of encounters with non-human entities have persisted across centuries, merely adapting their form to the prevailing cultural and technological paradigms.