WATSUP Journal - No 6 - 1976

Magazine Overview

Title: WATSUP JOURNAL
Issue: No 6
Date: Summer 1976
Publisher: WESSEX ASSOCIATION FOR THE STUDY OF UNEXPLAINED PHENOMENA
Price: 25p

This issue of the Watsup Journal, the publication of the Wessex Association for the Study of Unexplained Phenomena (W.A.T.S.U.P.), is dedicated to exploring various unexplained phenomena, with a particular focus on UFOs and haunted localities. The cover prominently features the title 'TRUTH AND THE TRIANGLE' and highlights 'THE FACTS ABOUT FLIGHT 19.'

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Nick Maloret, reflects on the impact of Lawrence Kusche's book, "Bermuda Triangle - Mystery Solved," which challenged the validity of the Bermuda Triangle mystery by attributing it to exaggeration and distortion. Maloret acknowledges the book's worth while noting that its conclusions are debatable, a point likely to be further explored in the articles by Roy and Tina Goutte. The editorial also touches upon the difficulty W.A.T.S.U.P. faces in verifying reports due to unreliable sources and the tendency of some writers to present untruths. Maloret expresses a hope that the journal itself will be fact-based and not overly sensational.

Committee and Association Information

The journal lists the committee members for W.A.T.S.U.P., including Malcolm Handley (Chairman), Brenda Handley (Secretary), Nick Maloret (Editor), Ian Tamplin (Treasurer), Pete Elbro (Auditor), and Research Officers Dave Almond and Ron Weighell. It also details the Southampton Branch Committee. Membership subscriptions are £1.50 per year, with a reduced rate of 75p for those under 18 and pensioners. The journal clarifies that opinions expressed within do not necessarily reflect the association's policy and welcomes contributions in the form of articles, letters, or reports, even on cassette tape.

Contents

• The issue's contents include:
• Editorial
• Catalogue of Alleged Haunted Localities (Part 2)
• Was Astronaut a God?
• U.F.O. Sightings
• Flight 19
• The Truth Versus the Triangle
• Reader's Letters
• Study of Material Life Forms
• Book Review
• U.F.O. Bibliography (Part 2)

Catalogue of Alleged Haunted Localities in Hampshire (Part 2)

This section, authored by Dave Almond, continues the exploration of haunted sites in Hampshire, focusing on the Havant and Hayling Island area. It notes a concentration of ghost stories in Langstone, suggesting a possible connection with leylines, though this was only confirmed for one site. The article details several specific accounts:

• Havant/Mill Lane/Langstone: In September 1945, a man reported seeing a naked, elderly man who vanished. A similar experience occurred in June or July 1940.
• Havant/The Mill/Langstone: The 18th Century Mill is reportedly haunted by a 'Jacobean Boy' ghost. The current occupant notes the presence of noises and an atmospheric quality.
• Havant/The Royal Oak Public House/Langstone: The owner's wife saw a disappearing woman in white, and inexplicable footsteps and noises have been heard. A Hampshire Telegraph article also mentions a ghost of an 18th-century man.
• Havant/Mill Lane/Old Bedhampton: In September 1969, a guard dog kennel owner saw a vanishing figure of a man, which caused the dogs to react fearfully. Gordon Creighton of F.S.R. suggests this might be a U.F.O. entity case.
• Havant/The Parsonage/Warblington: An account from 1695 describes an apparition of a figure in a black gown seen by a maid and later by the Rector and others. The ghost was identified as the Reverend Pitfield.
• Hayling Island/The Old Railway Station: Several strange occurrences were reported, including sightings of legs and a figure in faded trousers by William Phillips. Peter Waidon felt a grip on his arm. Noel Sloman mentioned rumours of engine noises. In December 1970, a driver saw a man disappear through doors. A local woman asserted the ghost was her father.
• Hayling Island Near Sinah Farm: A witness reported seeing only two legs striding along the road at night.

Was Astronaut a God?

This article explores the idea of extraterrestrial beings and their potential role in human belief systems, drawing a parallel between ancient deities and modern UFO occupants. It references biblical accounts and ancient religious practices, suggesting that as human culture advances, so do our concepts of divinity. The author posits that some individuals interested in UFOs might be unconsciously seeking a new form of religion, with UFO occupants potentially filling the role previously held by divine figures. The article quotes Larry S. Skurnik on the tendency to perceive things based on our needs and desires. It also notes that many reported UFO sightings are misidentifications of conventional objects like balloons, satellites, and aircraft. Data from B.U.F.O.R.A. for 1966-1969 indicates a high number of reports, with a significant portion being identified as conventional phenomena.

U.F.O. Sightings

This section details several reported UFO sightings:

• Like a Wide-Brimmed Bowler Hat: In July or August 1975, two youths in Milton reported seeing a grey, indistinct object resembling a wide-brimmed hat that moved and then disappeared rapidly.
• An Exploding Oval: Dennis Wild recalls a sighting from his childhood (1964/65) of a glowing green oval object that 'exploded' like a gun-shot and disappeared.
• Revolving Globe Over Milton: In the winter of 1966, Mark Brett observed a stationary, dark grey, globular object with a flange that rotated rapidly. The object was illuminated and scintillated.
• U.F.O. During an Electrical Storm: K.J. Morgan reported seeing a cigar or airship-type aircraft hovering during an electrical storm near East Head. The object had lighted port holes and was estimated to be moving at approximately 2000 m.p.h.

Beware! Sirius

P.A. Eibro writes about the potential for misidentifying the star Sirius as a UFO. Sirius is described as a bright star that moves slowly and can diffract light into various colors. The article notes that reports of Sirius sightings often followed publicity of genuine UFO sightings.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are UFO sightings, haunted localities, and the critical examination of paranormal claims. The editorial stance, as expressed by Nick Maloret, emphasizes the importance of scientific research, skepticism, and fact-based investigation, cautioning against unsubstantiated claims and sensationalism. The journal aims to provide a platform for exploring unexplained phenomena while maintaining a rigorous approach to evidence and sources.

This issue of Flying Saucer Review, Volume 21, Issue 11, dated November 1975, with a cover price of 25p, delves into two distinct UFO phenomena: a recent sighting in the UK and the enduring mystery of Flight 19. The magazine is published by Flying Saucer Review Publications in the United Kingdom and is written in English.

Sighting of an Unusual Object at Little Basing (30.9.75)

This article, authored by Richard Nash, details a sighting by Mrs. Moore at Little Basing on September 30, 1975. Mrs. Moore, an experienced observer of the sky, was awake at 5:40 a.m. when she noticed a bright yellow/orange object in the North East. Using binoculars, she observed the object nestled between trees and a rise. She described the object's aura as straining and painful to her eyes. After approximately five minutes, the object changed color and ascended at great speed, disappearing quickly. Nash visited Mrs. Moore twice and estimated the object was no more than a mile from her house, suggesting it could have landed. He notes that the sighting was reported to the Basingstoke Gazette and that the British U.F.O. Society, represented by Mr. Ken Rogers, commented on it without direct knowledge of the witness. Nash emphasizes the importance of visiting witnesses rather than relying solely on report forms. He concludes by inviting anyone with information to come forward, noting that Mrs. Moore is familiar with conventional aircraft and celestial bodies.

Light Over Portesdown Hill

Authored by Dave Almond, this section recounts a sighting by Mr. and Mrs. Chase on Portsdown Hill, Portchester, during the summer months of 1967 or 1968. Mrs. Chase, lying awake, noticed an orange or yellow light moving slowly eastward above the hill. Her curiosity led her to wake her husband. As they looked, the object appeared stationary, then vanished. Later, at approximately 4 a.m., Mr. Chase awoke to an intense orange glow illuminating their room. He saw an object, described as 12/18ft in diameter and hovering at about 300 ft, with indistinct, shimmering edges. He felt immobile for about 30 seconds. The object then moved off at incredible speed to the South, and Mr. Chase regained mobility. The couple initially decided not to report it, fearing ridicule, but later discussed the connection between the midnight light and the 4 a.m. event. Almond notes a potential magnetic anomaly between Molasses Reef and Jupiter Inlet, Florida, as a possible factor in compass malfunctions, though he deems it insufficient to explain the drastic effects observed.

Flight 19

This extensive investigation, also by Dave Almond, delves into the disappearance of Flight 19, five TBM Avenger torpedo bombers, and a Martin Mariner rescue plane on December 5, 1945. The flight, led by Lt. Charles Carroll Taylor, took off from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, at 2:10 p.m. At 3:45 p.m., Taylor reported being off course and unable to see land. Subsequent communications revealed disorientation and confusion about their position, with Taylor stating, "We don't know which way is West. Everything is wrong..." The article analyzes the radio transmissions, particularly the exchange between Lt. Taylor and Lt. Robert F. Cox, suggesting Cox's advice about navigating by the sun may have been misinterpreted, leading Taylor to believe he was in the Florida Keys when he was likely over the Cays north of Grand Bahama. The article highlights that Lt. Taylor had requested to be replaced before the flight but was denied. The investigation into the Martin Mariner rescue plane's disappearance also reveals a lack of wreckage and conflicting reports of survivors and sightings, including life rafts, life jackets, and flares, which were officially declared negative by Commander Richard Baxter. The article questions the competence of the investigators and suggests a possible cover-up. A significant point raised is a civilian report of a bright blue flame seen on the morning of Flight 19's disappearance, which the Air Sea Rescue officer suggested might have been a meteorite. The article concludes by stating that Lt. Taylor was eventually absolved of blame by an Appeal Court, which cited "unexpected and unforeseen development of weather conditions."

The Truth Versus The Triangle

Authored by Roy and Tina Goutte, this piece offers a factual look at the "Bermuda Triangle." The authors express skepticism towards sensationalized books on the topic, stating that many lack accurate information. They focused their research on ships of at least one hundred tons that disappeared since 1960, noting that while many were equipped with modern safety features, the number of disappearances is still significant. The article begins to detail losses starting from 1960, mentioning the German ship LUHESAND, which went missing in the North Sea on January 20, 1960.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are unexplained aerial phenomena (UFOs) and aviation mysteries, particularly the enduring enigma of Flight 19. The magazine presents detailed investigations and witness accounts, often questioning official explanations and suggesting the possibility of cover-ups or misinterpretations. The editorial stance appears to favor a critical examination of evidence and a pursuit of truth beyond conventional explanations, encouraging readers to draw their own conclusions. The inclusion of the "Notes from the Editor" and "Lectures and Meetings" sections indicates an active engagement with the UFO community and a desire to disseminate information and foster discussion.

This issue of the W.A.T.S.U.P. Journal, identified as No. 6 and covering the period 1964-1967, presents a diverse range of content including maritime incident reports, discussions on paranormal phenomena, and a comprehensive bibliography of UFO literature. The journal appears to be a platform for exploring unexplained phenomena, with a focus on both terrestrial and extraterrestrial mysteries.

Missing Vessels Reports

The journal meticulously lists missing vessels, primarily from the early 1960s. Each entry provides details such as the vessel's name, build year, tonnage, description (e.g., MS, SS, Trawler), sailing route, cargo, and last reported location and date. Notable entries include:

• YUNG AN (China, Built 1956): Last reported on February 18th in the China Seas.
• HANNE S. (Denmark, Built 1952): Last reported by wireless on April 29th in the North Sea.
• SANTA CATARINA (Brazil, Built 1884): Not heard of since leaving Vitoria on June 28th in the South West Atlantic.
• LESRIX (Great Britain, Built 1938): Last reported on October 31st, 15 miles West of St. Catherines Point in the English Channel.
• IRI (Liberia, Built 1919): Last reported passing the Lizard on November 8th after leaving Falmouth.
• TESTAL (Spain, Built 1959): Last reported on January 11th in the N.E. Atlantic.
• LE MOROS (France, Built 1958): Last reported on January 10th in the N.E. Atlantic.
• LE MATELOT (France, Built 1934): Last reported by wireless on January 11th in the N.E. Atlantic.
• GOLVENZANG (BLG, Built 1931): Reported engine trouble off Lands End on January 11th and not seen since.
• SAINT ERNEST (Great Britain, Built 1936): Disappeared between Alderney and Newhaven after leaving Alderney on January 18th.
• RAVENEL (France, Built 1960): Last reported by wireless on January 27th.
• BERTA KIENASS (West Germany, Built 1941): Last reported passing Yminden on January 31st.
• TORVIG (Denmark, Built 1960): Last reported on February 16th and not seen or heard since.
• HEDIA (Liberia, Built 1915): Last reported near Galita Island on March 14th in the Mediterranean.
• CREUSA (Italy, Built 1905): Last reported on February 1st in the Mediterranean.
• MARINE SULPHUR QUEEN (U.S.A., Built 1914): Last reported on February 3rd in the Gulf of Mexico.
• DONAN MARU (Japan, Built 1946): Last reported 190 miles off Shionomisaki on June 6th.
• DONALD (Greece, Built 1945): Last reported by wireless on August 27th.
• CASTILLO MONTJUICH (Spain, Built 1919): Last reported by wireless on December 14th in the Mid Atlantic.
• LAGUNA (Brazil, Built 1947): Last reported by radio telephone on December 12th.
• VACHIC (France, Built 1961): Last reported on January 9th in the N.E. Atlantic.

Notably, the year 1961 reported no vessels over 100 tons posted missing.

Reader's Letters and Editorial Content

A reader, Lilian Martin, expresses her appreciation for the journal and discusses her philosophical views on nature, the universe, and the miraculous, suggesting that the miraculous is a further unfolding of the natural order. She wishes the reader well in their quest.

Another section announces the establishment of the "Fountain Centre" in Warminster, which aims to provide a resource for those interested in flying phenomena. The centre, based at Star House, will offer accommodation and study projects for subscribers to the "Fountain Journal," which features sighting accounts and articles. Healing therapy and astrological advice are also mentioned as benefits.

Book Review: Hobgoblin and Sweet Puck

Pete Elbro reviews Gillian Edwards' book, "Hobgoblin and Sweet Puck. Fairy Names and Natures." While the author claims it's not a serious folklore study, Elbro finds it a valuable source of information for those interested in fairy belief beyond simple folk memory. The review traces the evolution of fairy names from Greek myth to modern interpretations, discussing various fairy types and their origins in different mythologies, noting that only the pixie is distinctly British.

Unidentified Flying Objects Bibliography (Part Two)

Compiled by Peter Hill, this extensive bibliography lists numerous books and articles on UFOs, organized alphabetically by author. It covers a wide range of topics, including "men in black," alien contact, UFO evidence, and theories about the origin and nature of flying saucers. Notable authors and works cited include:

• Kurt Glemser: "Flying saucers from the 4th dimension."
• Fred Goerner: "The U.F.O. report."
• Irving A. Greenfield: "The U.F.O. wave of 1896."
• Franklin Hall: "The riddle of the flying saucers."
• Gerald Heard: "Is another world watching us?"
• Donald E. Keyhoe: "Flying Saucers are real," "The Flying Saucer Conspiracy."
• Philip J. Klass: "U.F.O.s-identified."
• Arthur Koestler: "The Sleepwalkers."
• George Adamski: "Flying Saucers have landed."
• T.C. Lethbridge: "The legend of the sons of God - a fantasy?"
• Coral E. Lorenzen: "Flying Saucers the startling evidence of the invasion from Outer Space."
• Donald H. Menzel: "Flying Saucers," "World of Flying Saucers."
• John W. MacVey: "Ufology."
• NICAP: "The Shadow of the Unknown," "Supplement to the U.F.O. Evidence."
• Norman Oliver: "The reference for outstanding U.F.O. Sighting Reports."
• A.R. Pace, R.H. Fras and R.H. Stanway: "U.F.O.s -unidentified, undeniable."
• Andrija Puharich: "Uri."

Department of Life Sciences - Final Year Practical Exam

A section details a practical exam for a "Study of Material Life Forms" using a "Matter Universe Simulator (MUS)." The experiment involves observing the evolution of a simulated life form, specifically the "homo sapien" species, and its interaction with non-materialistic forces. The objective is to study deviations from normal behavior caused by stimuli, which are often classified as unexplained phenomena like E.S.P., telekinesis, and UFOs. The experiment is designed to terminate when the first space projectile leaves the planetary system, and participants are asked to analyze the life forms' realization of the universe's scale and the use of non-materialistic forces.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the unexplained, particularly maritime disappearances and UFO phenomena. The journal appears to maintain an open-minded stance, presenting reports and bibliographies that encourage further investigation into these mysteries. The establishment of the Fountain Centre suggests a growing interest and organized effort in researching aerial phenomena. The inclusion of a book review on fairy folklore and a scientific experiment on simulated life forms indicates a broad interest in the unusual and the nature of reality.

This document is a listing of "Associations and Recommended Journals" related to UFOs and other unexplained phenomena, likely from a 1980s publication given the currency and postal codes. It serves as a directory for individuals interested in these subjects, providing contact information, publication frequency, and subscription costs for various magazines and research groups, primarily based in the UK.

Featured Publications and Organizations

• FLYING SAUCER REVIEW: Described as a "LEADING INTERNATIONAL U.F.O. MAGAZINE," it is published six times a year with an annual subscription of £3.25. Contact is through F.S.R. Publications, P.O. Box 25, Barnet, Herts EN5 2NR.

• B.U.F.O.R.A. (The British U.F.O. Research Association): This association publishes a journal six times a year. The combined subscription for membership and the journal is £4.00. Contact is listed as Mrs. A. Harcourt, 120, Faversham Road, Kennington, Ashford, Kent.

• LANTERN: Published quarterly by the Borderline Science Investigation Group, this magazine focuses on unexplained phenomena in East Anglia. It includes articles on UFOs, leys, and psychic phenomena. The annual subscription is 70p. Contact is I.A.W. Bunn, 3, Dunwich Way, Lowestoft, Suffolk.

• SCAN: Published twice yearly by the SCAN U.F.O. Group (Bournemouth), this organization is devoted to the study of UFOs and all unexplained phenomena. Contact is Leslie Harris, 8, Southill Road, Winton, Bournemouth, Dorset BH9 1RL.

• N.U.F.O.I.S. (Nottingham U.F.O. Investigation Society): Enquiries for this society should be directed to R.W. Morrell, 443, Meadow Lane, Nottingham NG2 3GB. Single copies are available.

• THE LEY HUNTER: Published bi-monthly, this magazine is devoted to leylines and allied subjects. The annual subscription is £1.50. Contact is Paul Screeton, 5, Egton Drive, Seaton Carew, Hartlepool, Cleveland.

• NORTHERN U.F.O. NEWS: Published monthly by the Northern U.F.O. Network, this publication provides information on UFO activity in the North of England. The annual subscription is £3.00. Contact is Jenny Randles, 24, Park Drive, Manchester M16 0AH.

• FORTEAN TIMES: Published bi-monthly, this magazine is described as "A MISCELLANY OF NEWS, NOTES AND REFERENCES ON CURRENT STRANGE PHENOMENA, AND RELATED SUBJECTS." The annual subscription is £3.00. Contact is Robert J.M. Rickard, Post Office Stores, Aldermaston, Reading RG7 4LJ, Berks.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The editorial stance is clearly one of promoting and supporting the study of UFOs and related fringe topics. The inclusion of these specific publications and associations suggests an editorial interest in providing resources for enthusiasts and researchers in the field of the unexplained. The themes covered by these journals include UFO sightings, psychic phenomena, leylines, and general strange phenomena, indicating a broad interest within the paranormal and fortean communities.