WATSUP Journal - No 7 - 1977

Magazine Overview

This issue of the Watsup Journal, published by the Wessex Association for the Study of Unexplained Phenomena (W.A.T.S.U.P.), is identified as issue number 7 and appears to be from 1976, with a cover price of 25p. The main cover headline is "The Folklore Correction," accompanied by an illustration of Glastonbury Tor.

Editorial: Elementals? (My Dear W.A.T.S.U.P.)

The editorial, penned by Nick Maloret, discusses an intriguing contact claim from the January/February 1976 edition of the B.U.F.O.R.A. Journal. The claim, investigated by Omar Fowler, details an encounter by Mr. Wally Churn in Farnborough in May 1974 with a gentleman named Alfreka (or Freka) who claimed to be from the "Saucer People." Alfreka had no facial hair and green eyes devoid of pupils, and disappeared mysteriously. Churn subsequently experienced pins and needles and a red spot on his hand. Maloret links this to folklore, referencing Gillian Edwards' book "Hobgoblin and Sweet Puck," which traces the evolution of fairy names. He suggests a possible connection between ancient fairy beliefs and modern UFO experiences, noting that Tony Jones explores this theme in his article "The Folklore Connection" (Page 16) and that Malcolm Handley's appraisal of the Hollow Earth theory (Page 5) also touches on this subject. The editorial concludes by suggesting that figures like Thomas the Rhymer and George Adamski might still be relevant.

Contents

The contents page lists several articles: "Editorial," "Incident on Cradle Hill," "Investigation into the Hollow Earth Theory," "Airship Over Gosport," "Hayling - Butser Leyline?," "The Truth Versus the Triangle (Part 2)," "The Folklore Connection," "U.F.O. Bibliography (Part 3)," "Biological Study of Soil Samples ("Landing" Near Winchester)," "Sighting from the 1967 "Wave"," and "Reader's Letters."

Incident on Cradle Hill

This article, dated Saturday, 1st May 1976, details a sky-watch and daylight survey of Cley Hill, Warminster, by W.A.T.S.U.P. members, including Peter Hill (Past Chairman), Tony Jones (Southampton Secretary), Tony Wells (Research Officer), and Joan Lawrence (Member). Despite the date coinciding with the Cup Final, reducing attendance, the party proceeded to Cradle Hill after a wet and windy ascent. While scanning the sky near a barn, they encountered a Ministry of Defence notice warning of unexploded shells. The observation took an unusual turn when Tony Jones reported seeing a pair of yellow "eyes" in a copse, about 1 metre above the ground, with an approximate 4-6 inch separation. These eyes moved horizontally and darted behind tree trunks. Tony Wells described seeing one yellow eye and then a red eye about 3 metres to the left, also moving in a serpentine manner. Joan Lawrence also saw a pair of yellow eyes, estimated at about 4ft. high. Peter Hill, using binoculars, saw nothing. The witnesses reported experiencing a considerable degree of unease, with Peter Hill noting no emotional response. The article questions the nature of the sighting, considering possibilities like reflected torchlight from animals but dismissing them based on the witnesses' experience and Peter Hill's inability to see anything with binoculars. A postscript mentions a revisit in September 1976 where a member, Roy Goutte, and his dog were clearly visible in torchlight from the same position, suggesting the original observation was not simply reflected light. A sketch illustrates the sighting area, copse, and the observers' viewpoint.

Biological Study of Soil Samples from 'Landing' Near Winchester

Authored by J.E. Goble and P. Woods, this article reports on a W.A.T.S.U.P. investigation following a reported sighting of a landed UFO and an 'alien' near Winchester on November 14th, 1976. Approximately two weeks after the incident, members visited the informants and took 27 soil samples from the supposed landing area. Tests were conducted a week later to examine the soil micropopulation, focusing on nitrifying bacteria for possible genetic changes. Eight agar plates were prepared, with sample one as a control. Samples 13, 19, and 27 were chosen for study. After incubation, the growth of colonies was prolific on all plates, with no significant difference in numbers noted between control and investigated samples. A soil macropopulation investigation also yielded no significant differences. The conclusion is that any emissions from an alien craft did not demonstrably affect the soil micro- and macropopulation or the bacteria's genetic ability to recover from eco-shock, with the caveat that a three-week delay between sighting and sampling might have allowed for recovery. The authors note limitations in equipment and preparedness but state the study provided valuable insights into necessary safeguards for future investigations.

Investigation into the Hollow Earth Theory

Written by M.B. Handley, this article critically examines the Hollow Earth theory. Handley expresses concern over the sincerity and respect shown in some publications on the subject, deeming some works "laughable," such as Brinsley Le Poer Trench's "Secret of the Ages, U.F.O.s From Inside the Earth." Handley refutes the theory's basis in a photograph purportedly showing openings at the Earth's poles from an ESSA 7 satellite, arguing that the image's scale would imply large parts of Scandinavia do not exist. He contrasts this with evidence from NASA's NOAA 4 satellite, which shows a solid globe. The article addresses claims linking supposed polar holes to the Van Allen Belts, explaining that electromagnetic field lines naturally create gaps at the poles, which is not evidence of a physical hole. Handley questions the existence of a metallic core, citing Earth's specific gravity. He discusses polar areas on Mars and Venus, noting that Mars' polar caps vary seasonally, while Venus' are atmospheric. The article references Russian Arctic exploration records suggesting the pole is a line, not a point, and criticizes Hollow Earth theorists' interpretation of these findings. It quotes explorer Nansen's observations of warmer climate and water temperatures near the pole, suggesting a connection to the Gulf Stream rather than a polar entrance. Handley questions how Hollow Earth proponents can claim knowledge of those who have ventured beyond if their compasses supposedly go haywire. He also addresses the phenomenon of colored dust and snow in arctic regions, attributing it to volcanic rock and algae, not internal Earth matter. Regarding icebergs being fresh water, he explains it's due to snow accumulation. The article mentions airline confirmations that they do not fly directly over the pole. Finally, it discusses a mine shaft experiment where pendulums suspended in shafts showed a difference in separation between the top and bottom, but Handley could not obtain confirmation from the Michigan College of Mines. The article concludes by quoting Patrick Moore's dismissive view of the Hollow Earth theory.

Cover Picture - Glastonbury Tor

This section describes Glastonbury Tor as being described in folklore as the entrance to Annwn, the Celtic underworld, and the realm of Gwyn-ap-Nudd, lord of the fairies.

Nocturnal Visit, Airship Over Gosport, Forton District Sensation

This item, sourced from the Evening News (Portsmouth) of February 25th, 1913, reports on a mysterious night-flight observed over Yorkshire and the East Coast. In Gosport, a bright light was seen moving steadily from Fareham towards the R.M.L.I. Barracks. It was identified as an airship due to its turning movements and being obscured by what was believed to be a dirigible's balloon body.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of Watsup Journal demonstrates a strong focus on UFO phenomena, exploring both contemporary sightings and historical accounts. A recurring theme is the connection between unexplained phenomena and folklore, as highlighted in the editorial and the article "The Folklore Connection." The journal adopts a critical yet open-minded stance, investigating claims rigorously, as seen in the biological study and the examination of the Hollow Earth theory. While acknowledging the possibility of genuine unexplained events, the journal also seeks rational explanations and scrutinizes unsubstantiated theories. The editorial stance appears to be one of scientific inquiry, encouraging contributions and detailed reporting from its members and readers.

Title: The Light
Issue: 7
Volume: 1
Date: Spring 1977

This issue of 'The Light' magazine, published by the Hampstead HG Wells Society, delves into a variety of unexplained phenomena and historical curiosities.

Airship Sighting Over Portsmouth

The issue opens with a detailed account of an airship sighting that occurred at night. The object, described as a brilliant light, made evolutions at a considerable height and was observed for about an hour over the neighbourhood of St. John's Church and Forton Barracks. It eventually disappeared after heading towards Hardway and Portsdown Hill. Police Constable Jenkins, along with P.C. Boyers, expressed their belief that it was a large airship, noting the difficulty in gauging its altitude due to its height and the darkness, and the absence of any engine sound. The unusual spectacle was witnessed by many people in the Ferroll Road, Forton Road, and Mill Lane areas, sparking conversation. A reference is made to a similar sighting reported in the Ipswich Evening Star on December 5th, 1913.

Hayling - Butser Leyline

This section, presented as the second part of a catalogue of Haunted Localities in Hampshire, explores a North-South alignment of ancient sites. The author, a self-proclaimed amateur Ley Hunter, set out to verify this alignment, which was initially identified from an unreliable small-scale Ordnance Survey map and then retraced using a more detailed 1:25,000 scale map. The alignment was found to be valid. The author then attempted to gather historical background on the sites, finding it challenging in some cases. Nevertheless, enough information was discovered to consider the alignment a possible ley line according to Alfred Watkins' criteria.

The Alignment

The alignment begins on the eastern edge of an earthwork known as Tourner Bury, on Hayling Island. It then proceeds to St. Peter's Church at North Hayling, approximately two miles distant. The third point is the church of St. Thomas A'Becket at Warblington, about a quarter of a mile across the channel. The line continues through the cemetery and intersects the ruin of Warblington Castle, located about 100 yards from the church. From Warblington Castle, the line moves to a mound positioned about one mile North West of Rowlands Castle. It then passes through Bascomb Copse on Windmill Hill, approximately 2.5 miles away, and intersects an alignment of two tumuli on Butser Hill. Finally, it crosses Ramsdean Down and falls on the furthest east of a trio of tumuli running East to West, situated about a quarter of a mile from Butser. The line may also pass through Cold Hill near Langrish as it continues north.

The Sites

• Tourner Bury (South Hayling): An Iron Age fortification covering about two acres, featuring a circular raised area surrounded by a shallow moat. The area is tree-covered and gives the impression of a flattened heap.
• St. Peter's Church (North Hayling): Dates from the early 13th century.
• Church of St. Thomas A'Becket (Warblington): The present building is from the early 14th century, built on the foundations of a pre-Conquest Saxon church.
• Warblington Castle: A ruined tower dating from the first half of the 14th century. Antiquarian Charles Longcroft suggests it might be built on a former monastery site.
• Mound (North West of Rowlands Castle): Situated about one mile North West of Rowlands Castle.
• Windmill Hill (Clanfield): Mentioned due to rumours of it being haunted. The author requests information on any unusual phenomena reported from the locality.
• Butser Hill: Features two tumuli aligned North-South, near the radio mast. It was the site of the 1976 Beltane Skywatch.
• Ramsdean Down: Has three tumuli arranged East-West, with the easternmost one falling on the alignment.

Cold Hill - Langrish

Watkins suggested that 'Cold' in place names might be a corruption of 'Cole', an ancient term possibly related to the Ley system. Considering the word's Celtic origin, he found definitions in Welsh dictionaries related to omens, beacons, and stones of omen. Further information is recommended from 'The Old Straight Track' by Alfred Watkins and 'Quicksilver Heritage' by Paul Screeton.

The author, Nick Maloret, admits to being an amateur Ley Hunter and welcomes opinions on the subject, acknowledging that leylines are a controversial topic.

The Truth Versus The Triangle Part 2

This article continues the discussion on the Bermuda Triangle, following up on a previous issue. It aims to compare the number of disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle with the rest of the world. The section begins by listing disappearances in various regions between 1960-1964, noting that the Bermuda Triangle had only one disappearance during this period, which the author finds unimpressive.

The article then starts detailing specific ship disappearances from 1964 onwards:

• 1964: JUNO (Pan), SEEHUND (West Germany), MARIE CAROLE (Com), ACADIA SEAHAWK (Com), JOAO JOSE PRIMEIRO (Ptg).
• 1965: CLIPPER (G(W)), EL ARISHA (Egy), THRASYVOULOS (Pan), MAURITSSINGEL (Nth).
• 1966: BOYE NILSEN (nor), ADAMASTOR (Fra), BOSTON PIONAIR (GBI), BLUE CRUSADER (GBI), BEGONA (Spn), KOSHO MARU (Jpn), SUN BEAM (Amr), BLUE MIST II (Com), JOHANNES KRUSS (G(W)), IKONE (G(W)).
• 1967: POLLY AND ROBBIE (Com), VIGILATE DEO VIDENTE (Nth), LUNFJORD (Nth), KATHARINA (West Germany), ANNE URSULA (West Germany), JAN MARGRETHE (Den), TONG HONG (Com), SPEED ARTIST (Con), SANTE FE (Chl.), DENNY ROSE (GBI).

Each entry includes details such as the ship's name, flag, build year, tonnage, cargo, departure and destination, and the last reported location and date.

Flight 19: A Further Note

This section addresses contradictions in the official report concerning the disappearance of Flight 19. The author notes that initial statements suggested survivors were observed by a rescue team, but this was later retracted as a misidentification. The article presents two documents released by the U.S. Marine Corps, dated July 13, 1946, and March 4, 1946, which are endorsements related to a Board of Investigation into the missing aircraft and personnel. The documents list the names of the missing U.S. naval personnel and state that they are carried on records as accidental death or missing for one year unless earlier evidence warrants a change in status.

The Folklore Connection by A.R. Jones

This article examines the connection between mysterious humanoids in Celtic folklore and current unexplained phenomena. It discusses the traditional views of fairies and elves, noting their varied descriptions from tiny beings with butterfly wings to giants. The author categorizes them into two main groups: white-skinned entities, physically similar to humans but sometimes with large heads, and dark-skinned dwarfs, described as hideous with black hairy bodies and taloned hands.

The article lists various names attributed to these beings across different cultures, such as Sidhe, Gentry, Fairies, Elves, and Sylphs for white entities, and Fallen Angels, Brownies, and Duses for dark entities. It then explores several theories regarding their nature:

1. Spirits of the dead.
2. Fallen angels.
3. Elementals (composed of earth, air, fire, or water).
4. Evolved from distant memories of early races.
5. Special creations, existing in their own right.

The author suggests that the fourth possibility, relating to an ancient race, is particularly important, citing evidence of diminutive, dark-skinned people like the Fenlanders and Picts in early British history. The article also touches upon similar legends of diminutive peoples and giants in other cultures, such as Eskimos, North American Indians, Australian aborigines, and Maories. The fifth possibility, linked to the fourth, suggests that folklore, myths, and legends built over the last 1,400 years might describe these beings, who were often encountered in remote areas by simple, superstitious people.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue include unexplained aerial phenomena (the airship sighting), ancient mysteries and earth energies (ley lines), maritime mysteries (ship disappearances), and folklore and mythology (fairies and humanoids). The magazine appears to adopt an open-minded yet critical stance, presenting evidence and theories while acknowledging controversies and the need for further investigation. The editorial notes and author contributions suggest a focus on presenting factual accounts, historical research, and reader contributions to explore these subjects.

Title: Flying Saucer Review
Issue: 23
Volume: 19
Date: 1975
Publisher: Flying Saucer Review
Country: UK
Price: £0.25

This issue of Flying Saucer Review delves into the intriguing connections between ancient fairy folklore and modern Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) phenomena. It posits that these may represent the same underlying reality, merely presented in different cultural contexts and historical periods.

The Fairy Faith and UFOs

The article "The Fairy Faith and UFOs" (pages 19-23) explores the striking parallels between traditional accounts of fairies and contemporary UFO sightings. It begins by describing how the perceived abilities of fairies—such as their size-shifting, ability to appear and disappear, and claims of superiority—instilled respect and fear in humans. These beings were said to live in subterranean abodes or invisible islands, with visitors entering 'fairyland' through hidden portals. Their diet consisted of oatmeal, meat, and pure water, and they were known to hunt and gather plants. Fairies were believed to be immortal, divided into tribes, and possessed a philosophy centered on cycles of creation and recreation, with no devotion to religion.

Tales of fairies' amorous nature and sexual relationships with humans are discussed, drawing parallels to medieval accounts of incubi and succubi. The article notes that historical figures were sometimes attributed to such unions. Witches often attributed their magic to secrets learned from fairies, and the practice of abducting human children, leaving behind 'changelings,' generated significant fear.

Further details on fairy behavior include their abduction of young mothers and women, possibly to improve their own race or for human care. The nature of fairyland itself is described as elusive—a remote country, distant place, or invisible island, with access sometimes requiring mystical ceremonies or sleep. Gifts from fairies, often appearing as rubbish, could transform into valuables. Fairies enjoyed singing, drinking, and dancing, often around fairy rings, and were known for playing tricks on children. Their ability to fly was often mentioned, sometimes with their entire household illuminated.

The article connects these descriptions to 'elementals' like Sylphs from the Middle Ages, noting similarities with 'flying chariots' or 'aerial ships.' The fairies' love for travel and dislike of staying in one place for more than three months is highlighted. The text also mentions 'dark-skinned dwarfs' or 'fairies of the rocks,' who inhabited caves and tunnels, and possessed aerial capabilities.

General characteristics of fairies, consistent over 1,400 years, include being intermediate between man and spirits, appearing at will, living in subterranean dwellings, their specific diet, immortality, tribal systems, marriage and procreation with mortals, amorous pursuits, and abductions. Their repayments for human help were often gifts of magical quality.

Interpreting these characteristics through modern knowledge, the article suggests fairies were physical beings with superior technology, possibly using laser projection or teleportation for appearances and disappearances. They had underground and underwater bases, potentially in aerial craft. Their diet was controlled, and they possessed superior medical knowledge, possibly extending their lifespan. They lacked religion and had tribal conflicts. Their reproductive system was similar to humans, though the necessity for their sexual drive was unclear. Abductions are speculated to be for genetic improvement or to place 'spies.' Their descriptions of mounds and hillocks might refer to unnatural objects like aerial craft, and their tricks on youngsters were likely to instill fear.

The article concludes by noting the remarkable parallels between fairy faith and flying saucer phenomena, with occupants and craft described similarly. It suggests that celestial objects and aerial sightings increased during periods of social change, and the fairy myth developed alongside beliefs in an 'otherworld.' With the decline of religious dogma and the rise of the industrial and space age, the concept of fairies has been replaced by the idea of UFO occupants from outer space.

Sighting from the 1967 "Wave"

This section (pages 23-24) details a specific UFO sighting that occurred during the autumn of 1967, a period of unprecedented UFO activity in Britain, particularly along the South coast. The witness, Michael Mytton, recounts an experience in Milton, Portsmouth, where the sky, pavement, and houses suddenly lit up with an electric blue light. He then observed a large, football-shaped object, also electric blue, passing overhead from the South-East towards the North-West with a hissing or whooshing noise. The object disappeared at aircraft speed, followed by a loud cracking noise, suggesting it may have broken up.

Reader's Letters

Flight 19 (pages 27-28) features a postscript from 'Mr. X' of the Res Bureaux, Canada, discussing the case of Flight 19. Mr. X details his efforts to uncover facts about this incident, including obtaining declassified reports from the U.S. Navy's Judge Advocate General's Office. He states that the official report and corresponding files provided a new perspective, laying the foundation for 'triangle' tales. Despite the cost and effort, his findings were met with little reader interest by several journals. He notes that the INFO JOURNAL eventually published his article, which was the first full transcription of the radio conversations. Mr. X is urging the U.S. Navy to investigate a sunken Avenger in the Keys, believed to be one of the lost planes from the Flight 19 incident. He also draws a comparison to the Great Lakes and Canada's Eastern shores, which are notorious for shipwrecks.

Catalogue of Alleged Haunted Localities (Part 3) (page 28) announces that the third part of this catalogue will be published in a supplementary W.A.T.S.U.P. "Newsletter"/U.F.O. Sightings sheet in the near future.

Bibliography

Pages 24-26 present an extensive bibliography of books and publications related to fairies, folklore, mythology, and UFOs. This list includes works by notable authors such as K.M. Briggs, Charles Bowen, Cottie Burland, Jacques Vallee, and Carl Sagan, covering a wide range of topics from fairy traditions and Celtic mythology to U.F.O.s and extraterrestrial perspectives. The bibliography also lists entries from institutions like the Dublin Inst. for Advanced Studies and publications like the Flying Saucer Review.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this issue is the potential connection between ancient folklore, particularly fairy beliefs, and modern UFO phenomena. The magazine seems to adopt a stance that these are not separate occurrences but rather different manifestations of the same underlying reality, possibly involving advanced terrestrial or extraterrestrial beings. The editorial emphasis is on investigating these phenomena with a rational, albeit open-minded, approach, moving away from purely religious or dogmatic explanations towards a more scientific and historical analysis. The inclusion of a comprehensive bibliography suggests a commitment to providing readers with resources for further research.

This document is a compilation of listings for "U.F.O. AND FORTEAN JOURNALS" from Autumn 1977. It serves as a guide to various publications focusing on UFOs and fortean phenomena, providing details on their frequency, subscription costs, and editorial contacts.

B.U.F.O.R.A. Journal

The B.U.F.O.R.A. Journal, published six times a year by the British U.F.O. Research Association, offers an annual subscription for members and journal readers at £5. Contact is through Mrs. Anne Harcourt at "Berways," Berden Road, Stocking, Pelham, Buntingford, Herts. The September/October 1977 issue includes articles on constructing a sighting quadrant, logic, and the 'scientific method.' It also features details of a recent landing in Essex witnessed by the police, national news, and sighting summaries.

Flying Saucer Review

Published six times a year with an annual subscription of £4.20 from F.S.R. Publications Ltd., West Malling, Maidstone, Kent. Volume 23, No. 2 (August 1977) contains features on British auto-stop and landing cases, detailed sightings, and contactee reports from Spain, the U.S.A., and Columbia. It includes an interview with Betty Hill titled 'Aftermath of Encounter,' a section on Welsh humanoids, and discusses 19th and 20th-century 'cosmic voyeurs.' It is described as a leading international U.F.O. magazine.

Fortean Times

Published four times a year, with an annual subscription of £3 from P.O. Box 152, London, N10 1EP. The Summer 1977 issue contains new photographs of Morgawr, Morag, and Nessie, and discusses spontaneous human combustion and leylines. It also features John Michell on literary coincidences, fish falls, and whirlwinds, as well as poltergeists. A large review section is included.

Fountain Journal

Published monthly by the Fountain Centre in Warminster, with annual subscriptions at £4 for 12 copies and £2 for six copies. Contact is via The Fountain Centre, Star House, Portway, Warminster, Wilts. Issue No. 11 of Volume 1977 features 'The Eagle His Landed,' psychic contact with UFOs, and 'Seeded by the Stars' by Ed Harris. It also provides details of a landing at Bristol and UFOs over Dartmoor, with frequent inclusion of current Warminster reports.

Lantern

Published quarterly by the Borderline Science Investigation Group. The annual subscription is 85p, available from Ivan Bunn, 3, Dunwich Way, Oulton Broad, Lowestoft, Suffolk. The Summer 1977 issue presents part one of an investigation into the 'Black Dog' phenomenon. It also includes an East Anglian fortean miscellany, a report on low-level UFO activity at Dereham, and a section on 'Invisible Friends,' alongside news and reviews.

Northern U.F.O. News

Published monthly by the Northern U.F.O. Network, with an annual subscription of £3. Contact is Jenny Kindles, 23, Sunningdale Drive, Irlam, Greater Manchester, M30 6NJ. This publication focuses on information regarding UFO activity in the North of England.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The compilation highlights a strong focus on UFO sightings, landings, and contactee experiences across various regions, including the UK (Essex, Bristol, Dartmoor, Dereham, Warminster, East Anglia, North of England), Spain, the USA, and Columbia. There is also a significant interest in fortean phenomena, such as the 'Black Dog' phenomenon, spontaneous human combustion, fish falls, and whirlwinds. The editorial stance appears to be one of cataloging and reporting on these phenomena, providing resources for enthusiasts to access detailed information through specialized journals. The inclusion of articles on the 'scientific method' and logic suggests an attempt to approach these subjects with a degree of analytical rigor, even within the context of fringe topics.