YUFOS Journal vol 2 no 4

Magazine Overview

Title: YUFOS JOURNAL
Issue: Vol. 2, No. 4
Date: September 1983
Publisher: A Yorkshire UFO Society Publication
Price: 50p

This issue of the YUFOS JOURNAL, published by the Yorkshire UFO Society, covers a range of topics related to UFO investigation and the society's activities. It includes an editorial from the Chairman, research news, announcements, and details about back issues and subscriptions.

Editorial: Message from the Chairman

Graham W. Birdsall, Chairman and Press Officer, addresses the society's recent decision to break ties with Contact International, their former official branch in Yorkshire. This decision, made on August 21st, 1983, followed considerable debate and was driven by negative experiences with Contact International, including a lack of feedback, persistent delays with their magazine 'Awareness,' and a general feeling of being unwanted. Birdsall emphasizes that the society has formed its own constitution and is now an independent body. He expresses a desire for collaboration with other UFO groups, advocating for a common-sense approach to avoid 'poaching' cases.

The editorial also highlights the work of the Yorkshire UFO Society's investigators, who are dedicated to tracking down witnesses, interviewing them, and preparing reports. The Chairman stresses the importance of these investigators, stating that without them, the society would be nothing. He mentions overtures from Jenny Randles of Bufora, suggesting external interest, but insists that liaison must be on the society's terms to protect witnesses and ensure their own investigators' work is not solely used for commercial gain by others. A recent lecture given by society members to a local UFO group in Todmorden, which included Alan Godfrey (a policeman with a famous encounter), is noted as a positive step towards localized rapport.

The society's constitution is nearing completion and will be distributed to members. Birdsall believes the current committee is well-balanced and capable of leading the society forward. He acknowledges that politics have played a part but asserts the society has emerged stronger. Recent media exposure has led to fascinating reports, and plans are underway to use a computer to analyze cases. A special team, equipped with photographic equipment, is focusing on North Yorkshire to investigate UFO sightings, hoping to capture evidence similar to the recent Cracoe UFO photograph.

Birdsall welcomes new members and expresses confidence that the upcoming months will be satisfying.

Research News: Bristol UFO Sighting

This section details the Yorkshire UFO Society's efforts to obtain information about a UFO sighting over the Bristol area on August 13th, 1983. After significant pressure, the Ministry of Defence (M.O.D.) released basic information. The saga began with a letter to Bristol Airport, which initially requested £50.00 for radar confirmation. The research team found this unusual. A subsequent letter to the M.O.D. inquired about this charge and confirmed the information would be used for research purposes only.

Bristol Airport later informed the society that they had forwarded the details to the M.O.D. and did not retain a copy, but would provide future reports for an agreed sum. The M.O.D. responded by stating that UFO reports are not classified but contain confidential information. They offered to send a copy of the report, excluding the informant's name, but could not trace the specific report without further details of the sighting date. They also clarified that radar confirmation would not be in their reports and advised contacting Bristol Airport directly, noting that as a civil airfield, they had no control over charges.

Separately, Bristol Airport provided a report of an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) on August 18th, 1983, at 11:30 AM. The object was described as round, silver, and very bright, observed by naked eye for 2 minutes outside a launderette on Mina Road, St Werburghs, Bristol. It was seen moving SE to NW towards Clifton. Visibility was clear and dry.

Meanwhile, the M.O.D. sent a letter confirming they had attached a report of a UFO sighting in the Bristol area in 1983, though they were unsure if it was the specific one sought. They also provided a statement of M.O.D. policy on UFOs. This policy states that the M.O.D.'s interest is limited to defence implications (e.g., intruding aircraft). Reports are examined as part of normal duties, with no dedicated UFO study unit. The M.O.D. acknowledges strange aerial phenomena but believes there are adequate material explanations, such as satellite debris, ball lightning, or aircraft lights, and has no evidence of alien spacecraft landings. They cite the 1969 University of Colorado (Condon) report, which concluded that 90% of UFO reports were plausibly related to ordinary phenomena. The earliest UFO reports retained by the M.O.D. date back to 1962, with earlier reports destroyed after five years; the decision to retain them was due to increasing public interest.

The society notes that the M.O.D. policy suggests files should not be released until 1992, but anticipates public access to more reports in the future. The research officer, Mark Ian Birdsall, announces that photocopies of official documents will be available through a new 'Research Newsletter.'

UFO Update with Diagrams

This section presents a report of an Unidentified Flying Object sighted on May 13th, 1983, at 23:10 hrs for 10 seconds. The object was described as three bright white spot lights in a straight line, observed by naked eye from outside in Bristol, Avon. The direction was not known (N/K), the angle of sight was 45 degrees, and distance was N/K. The object moved straight then dived down. Meteorological conditions were clear. The report notes that this was not the same sighting featured in the popular press on August 16th, 1983. It also mentions that the Bristol Police officers forwarded a report to the M.O.D., and it appears the object was tracked by Bristol Airport. The society expresses a desire for all information to be made public.

Aircraft Operations at Leeds/Bradford

This section provides a detailed list of flights operating at Yeadon Airport (serving Leeds and Bradford) for a specific Friday in August. It includes the operator, flight number, destination/origin, time, and whether it was an arrival or departure. The list comprises numerous flights from various airlines such as Air UK, Genair, British Midland, Dan Air, Air Lingus, and Britannia Airways, covering destinations like Belfast, Heathrow, Amsterdam, Dublin, Ibiza, and Glasgow. The text notes that these are the larger aircraft, and many smaller private planes and helicopters also use the airport. It highlights the significant amount of air traffic in the skies around Leeds, including aircraft not using Yeadon.

Announcements

The next YUFOS meeting is scheduled for Contenary House (Old Dispensary), North Street, Leeds, at 2:30 PM on September 25th. Other meeting dates are October 30th and November 27th, with no meeting in December. All are welcome.

Back Issues

Back issues of the YUFOS JOURNAL are available for certain volumes due to demand. Volume 1 Journals cost 30p plus 16p postage, and Volume 2 Journals cost 50p plus 16p postage. Orders should be sent with cheque or postal order payable to Yorkshire UFO Society to the editorial address.

Advertising Rates and Subscriptions

Advertising rates are provided for various page sizes and lineage, with prices ranging from £6.00 per page for a 6-issue contract down to £0.10 per line for lineage. Subscriptions to the 'YUFOS JOURNAL' are £4.00 for six bi-monthly issues, including UK postage. Overseas subscriptions require an additional 50p.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the ongoing investigation of UFO phenomena, the challenges of obtaining official information (particularly from government bodies like the M.O.D.), and the importance of independent research and witness testimony. The Yorkshire UFO Society's stance is one of independence, seeking collaboration while maintaining control over their research and protecting their witnesses. There is a clear emphasis on rigorous investigation, utilizing photographic evidence, and striving for transparency and public awareness regarding UFOs. The society appears committed to a serious, evidence-based approach, differentiating itself from sensationalism and commercial exploitation of UFO cases.

This issue of "UFO UPDATE" is a compilation of various UFO/UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) reports and investigations, primarily from 1983, with some entries dating back to 1980, 1981, and 1982. The magazine focuses on witness testimonies, investigator findings, and attempts to document and explain these phenomena. The content is presented in a factual, report-like manner, detailing dates, times, locations, descriptions of objects, and sometimes associated events or effects. The issue also includes a "Letters to the Editor" section with a unique theological perspective on UFOs.

Key Articles and Reports

Leigh, Lancashire Sighting (August 20, 1983)

Investigator M.I. Birdsall documents a report from "Mrs E" who awoke to a bright light shining on her bedroom window. She observed a very bright, flashing light on the ground, which she described as a "space ship." The object had a dome at the front with "slits" of white light and a second light at the back that emitted flashes. Mrs E described the center structure as resembling an electric power pylon, long, grey, and dark. The dome then glowed red, and the object's speed increased, shooting away southeast at high speed. The witness noted the time as 5:20 am.

Cononley, West Yorks Sighting (August 3, 1981)

Investigator M.I. Birdsall reports on a sighting by "Mrs Boy" who was woken at approximately 2:25 am to see "two" moons in the Southern sky. Her husband also witnessed the phenomenon. The objects were described as perfect circles and red. They were observed over Farmhill Pinnacle, between Skipton and Cononley.

Carleton Moor Sighting (August 3, 1983)

Investigator M.I. Birdsall reports that "Mrs Bowes" noticed a very bright light travelling from the direction of Gargrave towards High Bradley at a moderate speed, below the sky-line of Carleton Moor. The object's brilliance was described as "most outstanding."

East of Wakefield Sighting (August 14, 1983)

Investigator M.I. Birdsall presents a report from a gentleman (Mr X) who, with his parents, observed a spherical yellow object moving slowly across Wakefield. They described it as a "small sun" and estimated its distance at 4-6 miles. The object was traveling very low (400-600 ft) from South to North, possibly over the A1 Trunk Road. A newspaper cutting from the Wakefield paper is included, detailing a similar sighting on August 15, 1983, where CB enthusiasts reported a large yellow ball with smaller lights following. No sound was heard, and witnesses stated it was unlike any aircraft. Another article mentions sightings on August 14th, 15th, and 16th, with a "star" type of light hovering over Flanshaw and Dewsbury Road areas, and on Sunday at 11:16 pm, a similar object dropped into woods near Eden Avenue.

Gipton, Leeds Sighting (November 10, 1980)

Investigators William Tree and M.I. Birdsall document a sighting by "Mr Moreton." At approximately 4:20 pm, Mr Moreton observed a large grey cloud from which a blinding white ball of light descended. The object, described as very large and low, hung motionless for 15 seconds before tilting. It then revealed a series of small white lights on its left side. The object moved back into the cloud and then quickly away to the East. Mr Moreton contacted Gipton Police and was advised to contact RAF Linton. The reply from RAF Linton stated that UFOs have been researched for 20 years, with some sightings explained by natural phenomena (meteorological balloons, lenticular clouds, Venus) and others remaining unexplained. They noted that Linton on Ouse does not have a department specifically tasked to study UFOs. Mr Moreton, a former RAF member, believes the object was not an aircraft or natural phenomenon.

Bradford to Batley Sighting (August 3, 1981)

Investigator Philip Mantle reports on a sighting where two witnesses were followed by two bright white lights while traveling from Bradford to Batley via the A650. The lights came directly towards the car, followed it when it turned, and caused the car to suddenly lose power and stop. The witness, a car mechanic, found the battery completely drained. The investigator is seeking more data.

Carleton Moor, North Yorkshire Sighting (August 3, 1981)

Investigator Tony Dodd reports on a sighting by two witnesses who observed a white light on the hillside, which appeared as two lights on the ground alternating. They then noticed two more identical lights, forming a triangular pattern. Five balls of red light suddenly appeared within the triangle and moved closer, performing aerobatics. White beams of light then descended from the sky, hitting the ground. A large cloud with a glowing red underside moved into the center, and the red balls of light moved under it before the cloud moved away rapidly. Animals became agitated during the event. The witnesses' credibility is rated as good.

Huddersfield Sighting (August 12, 1983)

Investigator Graham Townsend reports that "Mr Humphries" saw an unusual bell-shaped object over the Birkby area of Huddersfield at approximately 8:30 pm. The object was brilliant white, flashing at regular intervals, and appeared silver. It moved overhead towards the Southeast. Mr Humphries reported the incident to the police and local paper, but no other witnesses have come forward, although another gentleman at the bus stop also noticed the light.

Long Lee, Keighley Sightings (August 13, 1983)

Investigator Graham Townsend documents four sightings by "Mr Wright." At 11:00 am, Mr Wright observed a silver circular object moving in sync with an aircraft. One hour later, at 12:00 pm, he saw a silver circular object moving high from Northwest to Southeast. At 1:30 pm, a round black and silver object flashed every two seconds, appearing lower than the previous sightings. At 4:00 pm, a small silver object crossed over Long Lee from the West. Mr Wright recently joined YUFOS.

Threshfield Sighting (August, 1983)

Investigators William Tree and M.I. Birdsall report on a sighting by "Mrs P" (Mrs Prang Mark Birdsall) in Leeds. She described a very large yellow disc with a clear dome rising from Threshfield Quarry. The object was silent, crossed very low over her head, and was described as "very big." She had observed the same object in June 1982. The area is noted for a high number of sightings. Investigations also involved speaking to workers at the Quarry and observing "coloured lights" over Hebden.

Luddenden, Halifax Sighting (August, 1983)

Investigator Trevor Peel is investigating a daylight sighting of a small silver disc moving slowly beneath the hill-side surrounding Luddenden. The object was approximately 15 to 25 ft in length and lasted 30-45 seconds, moving North to South. The area is also being analyzed for "noise phenomena" and the C.E.II case.

Hollifield Sighting (Around Summer 1982)

Investigator A. Rogers reports on a sighting by "Mr. Smith" and his wife. At approximately 11:50 pm, Mr. Smith noticed bright lights at treetop level. The object appeared behind a tree, compared in size to a 50p piece. It hovered motionless for 10-15 minutes before moving towards them, revealing an outline with three levels or gantries, made of perspex or plastic, giving off an orange glow. A faint humming sound was heard. The object moved over the village and then reappeared near the auction mart, repeating its trip towards Skipton and back. The effect of its departure was like a high-speed car passing. Mr. Smith found no other villagers had seen it.

Keighley Sighting (October 26, 1981)

Investigator M.I. Birdsall reports on a case that came to light due to an article in the Craven Herald about the Cracoe UFO. "Mrs Garnham" noticed a bright 'star' which turned sideways into an orange cigar shape. It then pointed its 'nose' upwards, and another cigar shape moved from behind it into a cloud. The first object then approached at a very low height, its orange color vanished, and it lit up. It had large 'windows' and a bright light on its 'nose.' The object traveled very slowly. Similarities were noted with a 1978 sighting near the American base at Menwith Hill.

Recent Sightings List

The magazine includes a list of 85% of sightings received in the last two weeks (prior to the Journal's printing date of 10/9/83). This list provides dates, times, types/descriptions, and locations of numerous sightings, including yellow lights, unusual structures, circular objects, bell-shaped objects, daylight discs, and orange cigars, across various locations in Yorkshire and Lancashire.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue of "UFO UPDATE" are the reporting and investigation of unexplained aerial phenomena. The magazine adopts a neutral, factual stance, presenting witness accounts and investigator findings without overt judgment, though it does highlight similarities between cases and notes witness credibility. The editorial stance appears to be one of diligent documentation and exploration of the UFO phenomenon, encouraging public participation in reporting sightings. The inclusion of diagrams and a detailed list of recent sightings underscores this commitment to cataloging and analyzing the data. The "Letters to the Editor" section introduces a more speculative, theological perspective, which the editorial team acknowledges as a thought-provoking theory worthy of consideration alongside other explanations.

This issue of 'UFO ORGANISATIONS' (Part 4, Volume 2), dated July 28, 1983, focuses on the theme of 'CONTACTING EXTRATERRESTRIAL LIFE'. The magazine explores the challenges and implications of potential contact, discusses UFO sightings and related phenomena, and lists various UFO organizations and recommended reading material.

Extraterrestrial Life and Contact

The lead article posits that if intelligent extraterrestrial life exists, it is likely to be far more advanced than humanity, potentially beyond our comprehension. The probability of civilizations developing at the same pace is considered low. The article suggests that life can survive in extreme conditions, citing examples from Yellowstone hot springs and the Arctic. The search for life beyond Earth is ongoing, with messages sent to distant stars and potential evidence of past water on Mars.

The psychological approach to potential contact is emphasized over a political one. Alien minds might not understand human morality, emotions, or logical processes, and our appearance could be perceived as repulsive. The advanced technology of extraterrestrial visitors is highlighted, particularly in contrast to human nuclear capabilities. Matter-antimatter propulsion is mentioned as a dream technology for scientists, capable of generating immense energy with microscopic amounts of antimatter.

UFO Sightings and Phenomena

The issue details several UFO sightings and related phenomena:

• Beeston, Leeds Sighting (Summer 1978): Mr. S reported seeing a large, toothpaste-tube-shaped object with seven 'windows' emitting a tanned light. He claimed to see figures inside waving to him. He later used self-hypnosis to recall more details, describing seven figures in white, one-piece uniforms, approximately 10 feet tall, with short hair.
• Carleton Moor, North Yorks Sighting: Two witnesses reported seeing two figures, over seven feet tall, wearing identical dark green or blue one-piece suits that covered their entire bodies, possibly including their heads. The figures had pale, thin, narrow faces with pointed chins. They were seen with arms outstretched over bushes and disappeared suddenly, leaving no trace.
• CE.II Case: A witness reported waking to a brilliant circular white light approaching her bedroom window at high speed, accompanied by a loud pulsating noise. The light disappeared, replaced by a blue dome with two red arms. The object then departed at high speed.
• Leeds Outskirts Sighting: A driver on a dark road reported seeing a large object, and through a window, observed a figure with a large forehead and big eyes.
• Police Officer's Observation (approx. 12 years ago): A police officer investigating a car crash noticed a large object just above the ground, and a figure was observed.
• Bridgwater, Somerset Sighting (July 28, 1983): Mrs. Patricia Stark reported seeing a huge, silent spaceship, described as being about the size of three large aircraft, fly over her house.

Other phenomena discussed include ball lightning, which is theorized to be related to mini 'black holes' created by lightning flashes, and experiments conducted in Moscow to generate sparks using the entire electricity grid.

Size and Distance Estimation Guide

A section by C. Dougherty provides a guide on how to estimate the size and distance of objects, particularly UFOs, using simple triangulation methods and photographic analysis. It explains how to calculate ratios based on arm length, object width, and photographic measurements.

Radiesthesia and Dowsing

An article introduces 'Radiesthesia,' the practice of dowsing with a pendulum. It references Mr. T. Lethbridge's claims about adjusting pendulum string length to find various items, providing a scale of measurements in inches for gold, paper, wood, concrete, silver, salt, bread, and glass. Kathleen Watson's experiment with the pendulum over a UFO photograph is also mentioned, yielding differing results among researchers.

UFO Organizations and Recommended Books

The issue lists UFO organizations from various countries, including Portugal, Puerto Rico, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Tasmania, Turkey, and the UK. It also recommends three books for serious UFO researchers:

1. The UFO Handbook by Allan Hendry: Described as a straightforward guide to investigating UFO sightings and analyzing samples, written objectively.
2. The UFO Encyclopedia by Margaret Sachs: A comprehensive resource on major sightings, writers, events, and witnesses, though noted as being slightly biased towards American cases.
3. The Encyclopedia of UFOs by Ronald D. Story: Similar to Sachs' book but offering more information on the broader UFO subject.

These books are presented as factual and informative guides that provide a clearer picture of the subject.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine adopts a serious and investigative stance towards UFO phenomena. It encourages detailed reporting and analysis, while also acknowledging the need for credibility assessment. The editorial comments suggest a commitment to providing comprehensive information, even if it involves complex or controversial topics. There is an emphasis on factual reporting and a critical approach to sensationalism, as seen in the recommendation of objective books and the detailed breakdown of sighting data. The publication aims to keep its readers informed about UFO organizations, ongoing investigations, and relevant literature, positioning itself as a resource for dedicated UFO researchers. The inclusion of a guide for estimating UFO size and distance, and the discussion of dowsing, indicate a willingness to explore various methodologies in UFO research.