Wessex UFO Record - No 06 - 1975

Magazine Overview

Title: WESSEX UFO RECORD
Issue: No. 6
Date: January 1975
Price: 35 p

This issue of the Wessex UFO Record, dated January 1975, presents a collection of articles and editorial commentary that lean towards a spiritual and psychic interpretation of UFO phenomena, moving away from purely materialistic explanations. The cover features a photograph of a series of lights in the sky, described as similar to an object photographed in Paris in 1953.

Editorial: A Light Centre at Warminster!

The editorial, likely written by one of the publication's core contributors, addresses the "nuts-and-bolts" brigade who view UFOs as purely material flying machines. The author asserts that informed opinion is shifting towards a more nuanced understanding, citing Dr. Meade Layne's concept of aetherial UFO creators and John Keel's "ultra-terrestrials" from other dimensions. Dr. J. Allen Hynek's suggestion that UFOs might not be "physical" in a conventional Euclidean sense is also mentioned. The editorial posits that UFO-denizens are psychic entities, a view consistently maintained by "Wessex UFO Record." It frames the current global situation as a major crisis where Scientific Materialism and "Old Time Religion" have failed, suggesting the Arcane Tradition is the remaining guide to sanity. The editorial proposes that Warminster, having experienced significant UFO activity, might be a focal point for positive psychic and spiritual manifestation. It suggests the advantage of establishing a "Warminster Light Centre" to offer rest, refreshment, meditation, and a reference section for UFO-related materials, though acknowledging the lack of current funds for such a project and inviting suggestions.

Articles and Reports

Warminster 1974: A Review of Activity (Neil Pike)

Neil Pike reviews UFO activity in Warminster during 1974, emphasizing that his account is based solely on his own observations to ensure accuracy. He notes that 1974 seemed relatively uneventful compared to previous years, with many sightings being ordinary "lights in the sky" likely attributable to satellites or aircraft. However, he highlights a second type of "Light in the Sky" (LIT) that behaves unusually.

Two specific sightings of this unusual LIT are detailed:

• August 20th, 11:50 pm: Observed from Starr Hill, travelling west in an erratic, zig-zag manner with pulsating light intensity. Nine witnesses saw it for five minutes. One witness estimated it was a mile away at 1,000 feet altitude.
• October 21st, 8:45 pm: Similar sighting from Starr Hill under ideal weather conditions, moving in a zig-zag fashion, pulsating, and travelling East to West.

Pike suggests these unusual LITs do not conform to known flight patterns and their purpose is unclear, possibly serving as beacons for UFO activity.

Electromagnetic Effects

Pike also recounts two personal experiences with electromagnetic (E/M) effects potentially linked to UFOs:

• June 29th: After a skywatch at Starr Hill, his car engine cut out on a farm track shortly after crossing a railway bridge. Despite checking fuel and connections, he couldn't restart it and had to walk home. The car started normally the next morning, and there have been no recurrences.
• October 21st: While sky-watching with Arthur Shuttlewood at Starr Hill, a parking light on Pike's car, which had been inoperative for months, suddenly illuminated at 9:05 pm. Attempts to extinguish it by normal means failed, and it remained unworkable afterwards.

Pike finds these experiences mystifying, especially the latter, and notes that a further E/M failure at a later date reinforced his belief in a connection to the UFO phenomenon.

'The Invisible Walker' and 'Giants'

Accounts of activity at Warminster would be incomplete without mentioning 'The Invisible Walker,' characterized by mysterious footsteps heard without a visible presence. Pike recounts his first-hand experience on August 20th, where eight other people, including his wife, heard footsteps in rain-puddles near the Starr Hill barn, despite clear visibility and no visible source.

The issue also discusses "Giants," nebulous figures with unclear outlines, some described as not appearing taller than seven feet, witnessed by many skywatchers at Starr Hill. Pike wonders if his early reporting of these beings in 1971 contributed to their commonality. These figures are described as remaining 'fixed' in position, appearing to observe the skywatchers. Pike suggests these presences, like LITs, might be part of a path to spiritual enlightenment.

Warminster Skywatch Caravan

A notice indicates that the Warminster Skywatch Caravan will be available from Easter until the end of October, with details available from Mrs. M. Carey or Mr. A. West.

Correction

A correction is noted for Issue No. 5, stating that the lower cover photo was printed upside down in error, with apologies to Ian Scott.

QUEST Magazine Advertisement

An advertisement for QUEST magazine promotes its coverage of the Western Mystery Tradition and Occult work, offering subscriptions and information on meetings and postal courses.

Practical Use of Mediumship (Ivor H. Sercombe)

Ivor H. Sercombe's article explores the study of psychic and allied phenomena, advocating for open-mindedness and a willingness to discard preconceived ideas. He discusses the possibility of parallel universes and time continua, suggesting that human understanding of Reality is limited by physical senses. Sercombe posits that humans are a trinity of body, mind, and spirit, possessing latent psychic faculties that can be developed to enhance physical existence and consciousness of the oneness of creation. He highlights the interconnectedness of unusual phenomena such as UFOs, ESP, Psychic Phenomena, Healing, Dowsing, and Radionics.

Sercombe shares his personal interest in psychic matters for 47 years, including 30 years of voluntary work as a medium demonstrating Clairvoyance, Psychometry, and Healing. He recounts personal experiences, including seeing and describing a spirit form in a haunted house in Devizes, which was later captured in a photograph. He also details the case of a show jumper cured overnight by a "spirit vet."

He emphasizes that spirit healing is a widespread form of mediumship, with its efficacy still not fully understood. Sercombe concludes that the barrier between the physical plane and other planes is not impenetrable but is maintained by the limited range of our physical senses. He suggests that exploring these psychic realms is of fundamental importance for health, wealth, and happiness, potentially leading to a better world.

Cover Photo Data

Details are provided for the cover photograph: Supplied by Mrs Betty Stead, taken at Warminster during a skywatch. Technical data includes a Zenith B Camera, 200 mm Soligor Lens, ten-minute exposure at F 5.6, and Kodak 1200 ASA film. The object is noted as being similar in shape to one photographed in Paris by Paul Paulin in 1953.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the spiritual and psychic interpretation of UFO phenomena, the specific activity observed in Warminster, and the broader implications of psychic abilities and mediumship. The editorial stance clearly favors a non-materialistic view of UFOs, positioning them as potentially benevolent psychic entities. The publication advocates for a holistic understanding of reality that includes psychic and spiritual dimensions, contrasting this with what it perceives as the failures of modern materialism and traditional religion. The emphasis on Warminster as a site of significant spiritual and UFO activity suggests a focus on localized, yet profound, manifestations of the unexplained.

This issue of "BOOK REVIEWS" presents a collection of reviews and articles on topics ranging from UFOs and ancient civilizations to esoteric beliefs and literary analysis. The publication appears to be a specialized magazine focused on unexplained phenomena, occultism, and speculative history, likely from the late 20th century given the book publication dates and references.

"SECRET OF THE AGES: UFOs FROM INSIDE THE EARTH" by The Hon. Brinsley le Poer Trench

This review critiques Brinsley le Poer Trench's book, which promotes the "Inner Earth" idea. The reviewer expresses regret that Trench, a respected UFO researcher, has embraced this discredited concept. The review dismisses the idea by referencing Rear-Admiral Byrd's accounts of flights over the North and South Poles, published in "National Geographic Magazine" in 1926, 1947, and 1956. The reviewer states that Byrd's accounts do not support the existence of a subterranean realm. Specifically, Byrd's 1926 flight to the North Pole, using a "sun-compass," covered a 120-mile radius at 3000 feet altitude, and no polar opening was observed. The review also addresses satellite photographs, explaining that apparent blacked-out polar regions are typically due to seasonal lighting conditions (winter darkness or summer daylight) rather than openings. The reviewer blames writers like Raymond Bernard, Robert Dickhoff, "Michael X," F.A. Giannini, and Ray Palmer for perpetuating the "Inner Earth" legend, tracing its origins back to Marshall B. Gardner.

Despite the critique of the "Inner Earth" concept, the reviewer acknowledges that Trench's book is well-written and worthy of perusal for its focus on genuine mysteries of the polar regions.

"A FOR ANDROMEDA" by Fred Hoyle & John Elliot

This review recalls the pleasure derived from this science fiction masterpiece, which was serialized by the B.B.C. The book is described as a gripping tale involving radio signals from outer space, the construction of a super-computer, and a humanoid being intent on conquering Earth. The reviewer notes the fictional abundance of extraterrestrial beings with a shared obsession for planetary domination, contrasting it with their actual absence. The review praises Fred Hoyle's name as a guarantee of scientific impeccability and humorously suggests that scientists like Sir Bernard Lovell at Jodrell Bank might be uneasy.

"IN SEARCH OF ANCIENT GODS" by Erich von Daniken

This review expresses personal conviction that Erich von Daniken's imagination knows no bounds, yet admires the book's beautiful pictorial layout. The reviewer states that the work offers no new evidence but attempts to support von Daniken's previous claims in a visually striking manner. The purchase is recommended for the photographic plates alone, with a caveat that it offers little food for thought.

"COLONY EARTH" by Richard Mooney

This review recommends Richard Mooney's book, "Colony Earth," as a concisely written and entertaining presentation of the ETA (Extraterrestrial Hypothesis) that avoids the wild claims of von Daniken and his imitators. The author, described as a layman, makes a compelling case, making the book compulsive reading for any discriminating reader.

"THE CARRY-COT" by Alexander Thynne

Described as a competently written occult/psychological thriller, this novel builds to a thought-provoking climax. Although unrelated to ufology, Wessex UFO Pecord recommends it for its quality and ingenuity. The climax is compared to Arthur C. Clarke's "2001 - A Space Odyssey" in its subtlety and openness to interpretation.

Bookstores and Publications

Several listings for specialized bookstores and publications are included:

• ATLANTIS BOOKSHOP: Specialists in occult subjects like Tarot, Magick, Wicca, and Astrology, located at 49a Museum Street, London.
• HELIOS BOOKS LTD: Offers a specialist mail-order service for books on the occult, including Tarot, Astrology, Psychology, and Mysticism. They provide a monthly list and catalogue.
• SOTHIS: A magazine of the New Aeon, featuring unpublished Crowley material and Thelemic artwork. It is described as over 100 pages with illustrations, costing 93p plus postage.
• W.A.T.S.U.P. NEWSLETTER: The journal of the Wessex Association for the study of unexplained phenomena, published quarterly. It is described as a superior UFO magazine, with subscription details available from Brenda Handley in Southsea, Hants.

"ATLANTIS THE GOLDEN" by John Cleary-Baker, Ph.D.

This article explores the legend of Atlantis, arguing that much of the material has been vitiated by the assumption that Plato's accounts in "Timaeus" and "Critias" are literal history. The author suggests Plato confused the Thera disaster (c. 1470 B.C.) with an earlier, greater catastrophe that gave rise to the legend of a Universal Deluge and the destruction of Atlantis. The article posits that Atlantis was not a continental landmass but a large, fertile island in the Gulf of Mexico, known as "Aztlan." It proposes an "asteroid impact" theory, citing Otto Much's work, suggesting an asteroid exploded over the North Atlantic on June 4th, 8496 B.C., causing widespread destruction, altering Earth's axial tilt, and increasing its rotation speed. The article also speculates on the Atlanteans' appearance (handsome, well-built, fair-haired, light-complexioned) and their culture, suggesting they were peaceful, trade-oriented, and possessed advanced science and technology, including knowledge of magnetism, crystallography, and possibly ESP, though the author draws the line at Atlantean spaceships. The article mentions the possibility of Atlanteans being great tunnel-diggers and creators of subterranean passages.

Professor Frederick Soddy, a Nobel Prize winner, is quoted regarding prehistoric knowledge and power.

H.P. LOVECRAFT - DREAMER ON THE COSMIC THRESHOLD by Sally Pike

This piece examines the recurring theme in H.P. Lovecraft's work of evil entities lurking beyond human consciousness. It explores whether these were mere fantasies or actual astral attacks. The author suggests Lovecraft's stories were based on dreams, which he believed were caused by acts of malice in past incarnations. Lovecraft's letters, published by his executor August Derleth, reveal him as a sober-minded ascetic. His stories are said to be based on the lore of an ancient race who practiced black magic and were expelled, but remain ready to reclaim Earth. The article dismisses claims that Lovecraft's fantasies were drug-induced, noting his vivid dreams since childhood involving intercourse with cosmic elementals. These visions led to the creation of the "Necronomicon," attributed to Abdul Alhazred. The article mentions Kenneth Grant's exegesis on Magick and the Necronomicon, its supposed translation by Dr. John Dee, and the "Calls and Keys" within it. Lovecraft's belief in past lives and worship of pagan gods is also noted. The author speculates that Lovecraft's dreams might stem from subconscious guilt or a need for cleansing, or more likely, from astral projection. His early death at 47 is suggested to be precipitated by his "visions" and fear of a forbidden Cosmic Secret.

An "Advised reading" list of H.P. Lovecraft's works published by Panther Books is provided.

SRI NARAYANA - Reincarnation and Karma

This section discusses the concepts of Reincarnation and Karma. It clarifies that the "spark of the Universal Spirit" (Atma), clothed in the "Karanopadhi" or causal body, is what reincarnates. It explains that individuals like John Smith are facets of the True Self, linked by a thread, rather than direct reincarnations of specific historical figures. The purpose of reincarnation is stated as the perfection of the True Self through diverse experiences, with Karma being the Law of Cause and Effect that shapes future lives. The article addresses the potential injustice of suffering for past-life wrongdoings, drawing an analogy to an infant's fall causing epilepsy later in life, suggesting that Nature's ways are not always easily explained but ultimately work for the best. It argues that Reincarnation and Karma are not fatalistic but establish a "Rule of Law and Justice," abolishing the tyranny of blind chance.

THE METAPHYSICAL RESEARCH GROUP

This is an advertisement for The Metaphysical Research Group, which sells occult equipment (Tarot Packs, crystals, incense, pendulums) and thousands of occult/UFO book titles. They offer a 100-page booklet and equipment lists for 25p. Orders can be placed via mail to their Warminster, Wilts. address.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the exploration of alternative histories and hidden knowledge, including UFOs, "Inner Earth" theories, the legend of Atlantis, and the occult. There is a critical stance towards unsubstantiated claims, particularly regarding the "Inner Earth" theory, while acknowledging well-written presentations of speculative ideas. The magazine appears to cater to an audience interested in the unexplained, paranormal, and esoteric, with a blend of critical analysis and open-minded exploration of various phenomena and beliefs. The editorial stance seems to favor well-researched or thoughtfully presented material, even if speculative, and provides resources for further investigation.

Title: WESSEX UFO RECORD
Issue: 20
Publication Date: 1975
Publisher: Wessex UFO Record
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English

This document provides contact and subscription information for the "Wessex UFO Record," a publication dedicated to reporting UFO, Fortean, and psychical manifestations. It is published quarterly.

Publication Details

The annual subscription for four issues is £1.50, with single copies costing 35p. Subscriptions are to be sent to Mrs Sally Pike at "Poco," 14, St. John's Rd., Warminster, Wilts, BA12-9LY. The telephone number for Warminster is 2880 (STD Code 098-52).

General correspondence and UFO reports should be directed to Mr. Neil Pike, who shares the same address.

Items and articles for publication are to be addressed to J. Cleary-Baker, Ph.D., located at 3, Devenish Road, Meeke, Winchester, Hants, S022-6Ελ. The telephone number for Winchester is 2691 (STD Code 0962).

Editorial and Staff

• Editor: J. Cleary-Baker, Ph.D.
• Associate Editor: Neil Pike
• Secretary: Sally Pike

Potential contributors and correspondents are advised not to attempt transfer-charge telephone calls to the editorial staff and to seek an appointment before visiting, unless they are personal friends of the staff.

Advisory Panel

The publication is supported by an advisory panel consisting of:

• Dr. G.G. Doel, MRCS, LRCP, DMRE.
• Captain E.I.A. Mackay.
• Norman Oliver.
• Arthur Shuttlewood.
• Hon. Brinsley Le Poer Trench.
• Arnold West.

Disclaimer

Contributors to "Wessex UFO Record" are solely responsible for the views they express in articles and features. These views do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Editorial Staff.

Copyright

Copyright for "Wessex UFO Record" is held from 1975.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The primary theme of the "Wessex UFO Record" is the investigation and reporting of UFO phenomena, alongside other Fortean and psychical occurrences, with a focus on the Wessex region. The editorial stance, as indicated by the disclaimer, is to provide a platform for diverse viewpoints, with contributors bearing individual responsibility for their content, rather than representing a unified editorial opinion.