Welcome to Ghost Catcher Isles, chronicling the weird, wonderful and eerie of the isles of Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. Come with me on my adventures into the strange and paranormal
When the October sky over Somerset turns a bruised purple and the moon hangs low, the village streets spring to life with a glow that feels both ancient and mischievous. Children clutch glowing carved lanterns, their faces lit by flickering candles, while the air fills with a chant that has echoed through the countryside for generations:
“It’s Punkie Night tonight… Give us a candle, give us a light…”
This eerie procession, known as Punkie Night, is more than a quirky local festival; it is a living link to centuries-old customs that once guided lost souls, kept wandering malevolent spirits at bay, and turned the darkness of early winter into a community celebration. Here we’ll uncover the origins of the “punkie” lantern, trace the folklore from 19th‑century Somerset to the Celtic “Púca Night,” and explore how this regional tradition mirrors the modern Halloween rituals we know today.
What Exactly is Punkie Night?
Punkie Night is a lantern festival peculiar to Somerset, celebrated in villages such as Hinton St George. It takes place on the last Thursday of October every year.
The word “punkie” in Punkie Night originates from a local name for a lantern, with possible connections to “pumpkin,” “punky” (a term for a young child’s ghost), or the Old English word “punk” (timber or tinder).
On Punkie Night, local people carve glowing lanterns from ‘mangelwurzels’, a type of large beetroot grown for cattle feed. Once carved and lit from within by candles, these ‘punkies’ are carried through the street by children and adults alike, often wearing costumes. Traditionally, the punkies are borne through the streets or door to door in a noisy parade, where those carrying them call for treats or candles to light their lanterns, singing:
“It’s Punkie Night tonight, It’s Punkie Night tonight, Give us a candle, give us a light, If you don’t, you’ll get a fright.
It’s Punkie Night tonight, It’s Punkie Night tonight, Adam and Eve wouldn’t believe, It’s Punkie Night tonight.”
Iona Opie and Peter Opie described this Somerset custom beautifully in The Lore and Language of Schoolchildren (Oxford University Press, 1987):
“To children in south Somerset a punkie is a home-made mangel-wurzel lantern of more artistic manufacture than those commonly made elsewhere for Hallowe’en. Laboriously executed designs, or floral patterns, or even scenes with houses, horses, dogs, or ships, are cut on the surface of the mangels, so that when the flesh has been carefully scooped out—leaving just a quarter of an inch to support the skin—and the stump of a candle has been lighted within, the designs become transparencies, and the lanterns ‘glow in the dark with a warm golden light’. These lanterns (reported from Long Sutton and Hinton St. George) are carried by a loop of string secured through two holes near the top just beneath the lid of the lantern. At Hinton St. George, where Punkie Night is the fourth Thursday in October, some sixty children come out into the street with their lanterns, and parade through the village in rival bands, calling at houses and singing.”
A Tale of Lost Men and Heroic Wives
According to local lore, Punkie Night can be traced back to when a group of Hinton St George men ventured to the nearby Chiselborough Fair in the early 1800s. The men spent their time at the fair drinking and carousing, and when they tried to return home after night fell, they soon lost their way. Although their village was only a few miles away, they became lost in the darkness without lanterns to light their path and were unable to find their way home.
Their wives back in Hinton St George were distraught with worry and carved makeshift lanterns from mangelwurzels and took to the streets in search of their wayward husbands. Some say that when the men first spotted the light from the women’s lanterns glowing in the darkness, they mistook them for will o’ the wisps, or even restless spirits, and ran away in terror. Once they realised the flickering punkies were held by their heroic wives, they were soon guided home to safety.
Older Roots of Punkie Night and Shared Traditions
Punkie Night was first recorded in the 19th Century but may have much older roots. In Ireland, there is a Celtic celebration called “Púca Night” which has Otherworldly connections. Here, Púca refers to fairies and sprites, which were not necessarily clearly delineated ideas from ghosts and spirits in Irish folklore. Similar to Samhain, Halloween, and Punkie Night, the veil between the world of the living and the dead is believed to thin at this time. Lanterns were said to guide lost souls back to their homes and also ward off the spirits of the dead who would roam the land of the living during this liminal period.
In these traditions, there is also the shared custom of children and adults going door to door ‘souling’ to ask for something. In Púca Night and Halloween, children ask for sweets and candy, and on Punkie Night, a candle for their punkie was requested.
Both Punkie Night and Halloween also feature chanting or singing to request these gifts. In Punkie Night, children sing their traditional Punkie Night song, while modern trick or treaters might chant the popular naughty rhyme:
“Trick or treat, Smell my feet, Give me something good to eat! If you don’t, I don’t care – I’ll pull down your underwear!”
(Image: Jack-O-Latern. Source: Toby Ord, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons)
The carving of faces in punkies also has similarities to the customs of Samhain and modern Halloween. Scary faces were carved into turnip lanterns on Samhain and were placed in windows or carried outside to deter evil spirits. This has been adopted into modern Halloween traditions with carved pumpkin jack-o-lanterns being placed on window sills and on doorsteps.
These celebrations all incorporated themes of darkness, spirits of the dead, and the turning of the year. They belong to the season when the nights draw in, the harvest has ended, and people once believed that the dead and otherworldly spirits walked the earth. In this respect, Punkie Night can be seen as a regional English counterpart to Púca Night, Samhain, and Halloween. It is a survival of the same autumnal fears, folklore, and festivities that people experience at this time of year, but shaped by Somerset’s rhythms and spirit.
Why Punkie Night Endures
Punkie Night endures, weaving together folklore, community, and the timeless human fascination with light in the dark. From the crude lanterns carved by anxious wives in the 1800s to the elaborate mangelwurzel “punkies” paraded by today’s children, the festival captures a uniquely Somerset spirit while reflecting broader autumnal rites such as Samhain, Púca Night, and contemporary trick‑or‑treating. By preserving this tradition, the village of Hinton St George keep alive a story that celebrates resilience, imagination, and the comforting glow of shared history, proving that even as the nights grow longer, the light of community burns ever brighter.
Norman, M. and Books, N.T. (2025). Britain’s Folklore Year (National Trust). National Trust Books.
Opie, I. and Opie, P. (1987). The The lore and language of schoolchildren Lore and language of school children. [online] Oxford University Press. Available at: https://archive.org/details/lorelanguageof00opie [Accessed 29 Oct. 2025].
Roud, S. (2008). The English year : a month-by-month guide to the nation’s customs and festivals, from May Day to Mischief Night. London: Penguin Books.
Great Yarmouth isn’t just a seaside town of sugar donuts and amusement arcades; it’s a place rich in weird tales, ghostly sightings, and strange histories. From pirates to witches, from mystics to mummies, the town bubbles with secrets that float through its streets and graveyards. Join me as we walk through Great Yarmouth’s darker side, exploring haunted corners, overlooked tragedies, and uncanny stories.
Our journey begins in the heart of Great Yarmouth, where the imposing St Nicholas’ Church stares out over the town like a sentinel. Its stones have witnessed hundreds of years of worship, but it has also seen scenes of witchcraft, piracy, and ghostly happenings.
Stop 1: St Nicholas Church, Great Yarmouth
(Image: St Nicholas Church, Gt Yarmouth. Source: E.Holohan 2023)
This church is said to be the biggest parish church in the United Kingdom. Once belonging to a Benedictine priory, its construction of was completed in 1119. Although very little of the original Benedictine church now stands, the base of the current tower is Norman. Expansions and changes were made during the Middle Ages. In the 13th century, the aisles were widened. In the 14th century, the south porch was constructed. In the 15th century, the north wall was equipped with additional windows.
In the 16th century, the church was split into three sections, each of which was used by a different denomination. When the church was renovated in the 19th century, these sections were once again connected. However, a large portion of this work is no longer visible because the majority was completely destroyed by bombing and fire in 1942. Reconstruction of the inside took place from 1957 to 1960.
In the graveyard: English Pirate Attack
(Image: Headstone of David Bartleman. Image: E.Holohan 2023)
In the graveyard here, we find a gravestone that has a rare inscription that refers to an English pirate attack:
“To the memory of David Bartleman, Master of the Brig Alexander and Margaret of North Shields, who on the 31st of Jan 1781 on the Norfolk Coast with only three 3 pounders and ten men and boys nobly defended himself against a cutter carrying eighteen 4 pounders and upwards of a hundred men commanded by the notorious English pirate Fall and fairly beat him off. Two hours after the enemy came down upon him again, when totally disabled, his mate Daniel MacAuley, expiring with the loss of blood and himself dangerously wounded, he was obliged to strike and ransome. He brought his shattered vessel into Yarmouth with more than the honour of a conqueror and died here in consequence of his wounds. On the 14th of February following in the 25th year of his age”.
This stone, dedicated to the remembrance of David Bartleman, Master of the brig Alexander & Margaret of North Shields, is tucked away in the old church graveyard. On 31st January, 1781, Bartleman bravely defended himself against a cutter with eighteen four-pounder cannons and a crew of up to 100 men while sailing the Norfolk coast with a crew of ten men and boys and only light armament of three-pounders. Fall, an infamous English pirate, commanded the Cutter attacking.
This triumph was fleeting, though, as two hours later Fall’s Cutter struck the unfortunate Brig once more. The battle raged on until the Alexander & Margaret was fully incapacitated. Captain Bartleman found himself in a desperate situation; he had no choice but to surrender and pay a ransom to ensure the safety of his ship and crew. His first mate, Daniel MacAulay, was seriously injured and rapidly losing blood, leaving the captain with little choice to make the difficult decision to pay to secure their release. Then, on 14th February 1781, at the age of 25, he brought his proud but broken vessel into Yarmouth, where he passed away from his wounds.
A stone was placed above the tomb by his father, Alexander Bartleman, to honour the bravery of his son’s death, the courage of his loyal mate, and the notoriety of Fall the Pirate.
Daniel Fall, also known as Fall the Pirate or John Fall, first gained fame in November 1780 when he captured two colliers from Lowestoft South Roads. At that time, he was known as “the noted Daniel Fall, a smuggler and captain of a large privateer.” The frigate Pegasus set sail from Yarmouth in pursuit but failed to locate him. An article in the Ipswich Journal reported that a 20-gun American cutter privateer had seized two large merchant ships off Pakefield, but the man-of-war ‘Fly’ from Hollesley Bay intercepted and took back the stolen goods.
Fall was known to sail under American colours, suggesting that the privateer mentioned might have been his ship. By February 1781, around the time of the attack on the brig Alexander & Margaret and death of David Bartleman, he was spotted on one of the Harwich packet ships, where he raised the American flag and displayed letters of marque from America, France, and Holland. Shortly after, it was reported that Fall, now known as the ‘rebel commodore’, was operating off Orford Ness with a squadron of Dunkirk-based privateers.
In early June 1781, Fall captured the Prince of Wales using two cutters: the Liberty, which he had recently stolen from a Scottish port, and the Fearnought, which he commanded.
By April 1782, Fall was reported to be heading into the Irish Sea, but after that, he seemed to disappear from the pages of history. No further sightings or reports of his activities surfaced along the East Coast. What happened to the notorious pirate Fall after his last raid: did he perish in battle like his poor opponent David Bartleman, or vanish into obscurity?
Witches Memorialised
Also in the churchyard we find the memorial plaque commemorating the five women hanged at North Denes during the Matthew Hopkins Witch Trials who were buried here; Bridget Howard, Margaret Blackbourne, Alice Clisswell, Elizabeth Bradwell, and Elizabeth Dudgeon. They are located in the churchyard’s north side. Why were the supposed witches buried here, in consecrated ground, when most others accused of such crimes were cast out to the crossroads?
(Image: Witches Memorial plaque. Source: E.Holohan 2023)
The history of Great Yarmouth is associated with the 17th-century witch hunts, especially in 1645 when Matthew Hopkins, the so-called Witchfinder General, paid the town a visit. Many people, both men and women, were tried for witchcraft at this time, and some of them were found guilty and put to death. The five women were hanged at nearby North Denes during these Witch Trials. Many of the accused in Great Yarmouth, according to historians, were simply social misfits or victims of unrelated disputes, not actual practitioners of witchcraft.
It has never been explained why the supposed witches were buried in the churchyard. According to a long-standing custom, people who are found guilty of crimes, including witchcraft, are typically buried in unconsecrated ground or at a crossroads, where their spirits would be flummoxed and unable to return and cause trouble in a society that values godliness.
In reality, according to Christian tradition, outcasts and suicides were the only people buried on the north side of a churchyard. The unbaptised, excommunicated, strangers, vagrants, executed criminals, and people suspected of practicing witchcraft were all included in this proclamation. This was frequently called “lying out of the sanctuary” or “burial without the sanctuary.” The saying “the devil walks in dark places” stems from ancient times, and was initially used to describe the darker parts of a churchyard, particularly the north side of a building.
Thomas Vaughn: Body Snatcher
Also at the graveyard we can see the plaque remembering local body snatcher, Thomas Vaughn. Ten remains were taken from Great Yarmouth’s St. Nicholas Churchyard in 1827 by Thomas Vaughn and his two accomplices. In the end, he was imprisoned, but only for half a year! For more on this, read on for Body Snatchers Row 6.
(Image: Thomas Vaughn plaque. Source: E.Holohan 2023)
Oliver Tomkins: Cannibal Victim
Situated in the graveyard you can see the grave marker of Oliver Tomkins. There is likely no body buried under the marker, as this Great Yarmouth citizen, about 120 years ago, was rewarded by cannibals for his attempts to spread the word of God by being killed, dismembered, cooked, and eaten. This was all within hours of Oliver Tomkins’ final diary entry following his arrival on a Papua New Guinean island inhabited by cannibals: “they tried hard to persuade us to come ashore…we promised we would visit their village in the morning.” The reward for his visit to the village was to be his host’s dinner!
(Image: grave marker of Oliver Tomkins. Source: E.Holohan 2023)
Next up at St Nicholas’ Churche we find Margery Kempe’s blue plaque.
Many believe that “The Book of Margery Kempe,” written by the English Christian mystic Margery Kempe (c. 1373–after 1438), is the first autobiography in the English language. Kempe’s domestic struggles, her extensive pilgrimages to holy sites in Europe and the Holy Land, and her mystical interactions with God are all chronicled in her book.
Margery Kempe was considered a mystic due to her profound and personal relationship with God. This was marked by visions, conversations with Jesus, Mary, and other religious figures, and via active participation in biblical events through these visions. She also embraced a highly devotional and pious lifestyle, which included prolonged weeping, fasting, and pilgrimages, which were all seen as evidence of her spiritual connection
Kempe prayed in St Nicholas church before leaving on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and a blue plaque now commemorates this.
Churchyard Hauntings
As well as being a place of rest, the church graveyard is also known for its unquiet residents. According to legend, at the height of “Egyptomania,” in the 1900s, a well-wisher donated the coffin of an ancient Egyptian princess to the Priory school next door to Great Yarmouth Minster. People were fascinated by mummies in this period because they believed that the ancient bodies had supernatural abilities. Some mummies were even ground into a dust for use as medicine or shown at gruesome “unwrapping parties.” Mummies were the height of fashion at this time!
Unfortunately, many mummies suffered in Europe’s humid environment after being removed from their natural hot, dry resting places. The princess mummy was kept in its case on display in a classroom, but it was eventually agreed that the only sensible thing to do when the mummy inside started to smell was to bury it in the church graveyard.
The Vicarage and St. Nicholas’ Church started to experience after dark knocking noises on their doors shortly after the burial; an investigation into the tapping noises revealed no reason.
The vicar was frequently confused and anxious when he answered the vicarage door to no one after hearing loud bangs. A decision was made to return the mummy to its casket since the noises were becoming unbearable and seemed to be coming from nowhere.
A mummified arm that had been mistakenly left behind when the body was hurriedly buried in the middle of the night was discovered when the box was opened. It seems, it had been begging to be freed and reunited with its body! The noises stopped and there was finally peace once the arm was interred with the rest of the body. The arm left behind; was it an accident, or something more sinister keeping the dead from their rest?
(Image: Ghostly knights. Source: WordPress 2025)
Along with tales of unquiet mummies, the churchyard also has takes of spectral horsemen. Ghostly apparitions were allegedly wreaking havoc in the graveyard in October 1922. A woman reported to the local police that she had witnessed three ghosts in shining armour riding horses across the churchyard.
As word spread, hundreds of people returned night after night to catch a glimpse through the railings, wanting to see these spirits for themselves. However, no further apparitions were seen. A bet was made to anyone who would camp out in the churchyard and to keep watch for the knights, but it was never taken up and the town’s citizens ultimately lost interest.
From the graveyard’s shadowy corners, we make our way down to Row Six. At first glance, it’s just another of Great Yarmouth’s narrow passageways, but this one earned a gruesome reputation as ‘Body Snatcher’s Row’.
Stop 2: Row Six- Body Snatcher’s Row
(Image: Body Snatchers Row sign. Source: E.Holohan 2023)
Row six, Body Snatchers’ Row, leads from St Nicholas’ churchyard to Northgate Street and is a reminder of when human bodies were stolen to order for anatomical dissection in London. In 1827, Thomas Vaughn, a resident of Row six, and his two henchmen, stole ten bodies from the churchyard. Vaughan was employed by Sir Astley Cooper, a surgeon to Queen Victoria. Vaughan used sawdust to conceal the bodies and transported them to London, where they were used for medical training purposes. Vaughan was tried at the Norwich assizes and received only 6 months imprisonment for this offence. He was later transported to Australia having been caught in possession of clothing he had taken from a corpse. In those days, sadly, theft of property was seen as a far more serious offence than stealing dead bodies.
Leaving behind the grisly world of stolen corpses, we come to a calmer, more literary stop. At 37–39 King Street, we arrive the birthplace of Anna Sewell, the author of Black Beauty. This is a house where tales of compassion for animals meet stories of ghostly presences
Stop 3: Anna Sewell House and The Man in the Window
The author of Black Beauty was born at Anna Sewell House on Church Plain, in Great Yarmouth. In 2021, Redwings Horse Sanctuary purchased the house, which dates to the 16th or 17th century. The property is now used by Redwings to highlight Anna Sewell’s renowned novel and her influence in animal protection.
(Image: Anna Sewell’s birthplace in Church Plain. Source: E.Holohan 2023)
On 24 November 1877, for just £40 and without a royalty condition, Anna Sewell sold Jarrold & Sons the entire rights to her book “Black Beauty”. “Black Beauty: his grooms and Companions, the autobiography of a horse” was the title under which the book was published. Since then, the book has sold about 30 million copies worldwide, making it the sixth best-selling book in the English language.
The adventures and misfortunes of a horse named Beauty are the subject of Anna’s tale, which was penned at the White House on Spixworth Road in Old Catton. The story was written in the first person from Beauty’s point of view. Anna survived long enough to learn of its success, but she was never able to witness the book’s eventual bestseller status. In April 1878, she passed away in Old Catton, Norwich, and was buried at the Quaker Chapel in nearby Buxton Lamas, where Anna had family.
In Great Yarmouth, a woman once reported that she saw a strange apparition in the window of the birthplace of the Black Beauty author. According to the eyewitness, Professional psychic medium Freda Joy, a man with “period features” who may have been the sibling of author Anna Sewell can be seen in photos shot seconds apart. Joy stated: “I couldn’t believe what I saw. I took the pictures within seconds apart and saw what looked like an image of man in the window.”
From this modest town house to a building spectacle, our path now takes us to the Hippodrome, Britain’s only surviving purpose-built circus, where sounds of joyful laughter mingle with shadows of the ghost of its flamboyant creator
Stop 4: The Hippodrome Circus, Where the Showman Goes On
The Great Yarmouth area has a long history of circuses, with travelling circuses appearing as early as 1815 and resident circuses from 1845.
(Image: Hippodrome Circus, Great Yarmouth. Souce: E.Holohan 2023)
The Great Yarmouth Hippodrome, built in 1903, is a landmark and Britain’s only surviving purpose-built circus building that still regularly hosts circus performances. Designed by Ralph Scott Cockrill, it features a unique, sinking ring that can be transformed into a pool for water spectacles. The Hippodrome was the inspiration of George Gilbert, a former circus performer who became a successful showman. The building’s facade features Art Nouveau details, including terracotta and brickwork.
The Hippodrome has hosted a variety of entertainment, including water shows, stage plays, cinema, and cine variety. During wartime, the Hippodrome was even used as a military practice shooting range. The ghost of showman George Gilbert is also said to walk the upper balcony of the Hippodrome.
Peter Jay bought the building in 1979, restoring the circus floor that sinks into a water feature in 1981 when he presented his first show. The Jay family continue to produce Circus Spectaculars four times a year, with Jack Jay as ringmaster and producer and Ben Jay as manager. The Hippodrome houses a collection of historical artifacts, props, and other circus memorabilia, curated by Peter Jay.
From the Hippodrome Circus, we make our way walking south on St George’s Road, turn left onto South Quay. Here we enjoy the scenic views along the quay.
Stop 5: A Stroll Along the South Quay
Take a stroll down the historic South Quay. It has been said that there were so many boats leaving Yarmouth in 1913 that you could cross the river from by leaping from one boat to another. The magnificent buildings along the river are a reminder of this port’s history. The Old Merchant’s House and the Great Yarmouth Row Houses are located just off South Quay.
The Rows were a network of winding alleyways where port workers lived.
(Image: The South Quay, circa 18th or 19th Century. Source: getarchive.net 2025)
The South Quay Elizabethan House has a reputation for being haunted. Some have called it a “hotbed of paranormal activity”. The Elizabethan House Museum is a historic 16th-century house, which showcases Elizabethan domestic life. It was constructed by affluent trader Benjamin Cowper in 1596, and when Cowper’s fortune grew, it was expanded in the early 1600s. In 1635, the mansion was bought by the town bailiff and local businessman, John Carter. Shortly before the Civil War, it developed as a meeting spot for Parliamentarians, most famously hosting a meeting in 1648 to discuss the future of King Charles I. John Carter’s sons, John and Nathaniel, inherited the house after his death in 1667 and remained there until their deaths in the early 1700s.
The house is said to have a history of paranormal events, including sightings of a ghostly woman, and reports of disembodied voices and unexplained noises The Elizabethan House is a popular location for ghost hunts and paranormal investigations due to its reputation as a haunted location.
As we continue west along the South Quay and head a little deeper through the side streets, we now encounter the Time and Tide Museum, located at 5 South Quay.
The Time and Tide Museum is housed in one of the best-preserved Victorian herring curing facilities in the United Kingdom.
The Tower Fish Curing Works, which was first constructed in the mid 1800s and expanded in 1880, is now home to the Time and Tide Museum. The works finally closed their doors in 1988 and The Tower Fish Curing Works was acquired in 1998 with the goal of turning it into a museum. This museum now showcases the history of Great Yarmouth, its herring business and social history.
At this museum you can discover Great Yarmouth’s varied history, its rich maritime and fishing heritage and some of the fascinating characters who made their living from the sea. You can even wander through a reconstructed Victorian ‘Row’ and see inside a fisherman’s home. You can soak in the atmosphere of the 1950s quayside, and hear exciting tales of shipwrecks and gripping rescues. The museum also contains some items of Fortean interest, such as the walking cane of Robert Hales, the East Somerton Giant.
Finally, we retrace our steps by walking north along South Quay, turning right onto St Nicholas Road and then heading back to the church.
And so, our walk comes full circle, to St Nicholas’ Church. In just a short wander through Great Yarmouth’s streets, we’ve uncovered tales of pirates and body snatchers, witches and mystics, circus ghosts and cannibal victims. This is a town where history and folklore blur, where the past is never quite at rest. Next time you stroll along these cobbles or pause by the quay, perhaps you’ll sense it too: the unseen layers of Great Yarmouth’s darker side.
(Image: The Spook Express, Joyland. Source: E.Holohan 2023)
Time and Tide – Norfolk Museums Service. (2024). Time and Tide – Time and Tide – Norfolk Museums Service. [online] Available at: https://www.timeandtide.norfolk.gov.uk/.
On Saturday, 28 June 2025, I had the opportunity to attend the online conference Looking Beyond, hosted by the Churches Fellowship for Psychical and Spiritual Studies. This event was particularly special as it marked the 50th anniversary of The Christian Parapsychologist journal. This publication has played a significant role in exploring the intersection of spirituality and parapsychology. As a humanist, I am always keen to learn about different beliefs, and this conference offered a unique lens through which to examine parapsychology from a Christian perspective.
The Churches Fellowship for Psychical and Spiritual Studies
The mission of the Churches Fellowship for Psychical and Spiritual Studies is to promote interaction and understanding between the fields of parapsychology and spirituality. By organising events such as Looking Beyond, the organisation hopes to provide a forum in which individuals can investigate the countless possibilities that exist outside the physical world. They are a significant force in the continuing discussion around the paranormal in a Christian setting due to their dedication to inclusion and open-mindedness.
The Christian Parapsychologist Journal
Founded in 1975, The Christian Parapsychologist journal has been at the forefront of research and discussion surrounding spirituality and anomalous phenomena. Over the past fifty years, it has published numerous articles that challenge conventional thinking and encourage exploration of the unseen dimensions of life. The journal’s anniversary celebration at this conference highlighted its continuing impact on both academic and spiritual communities.
The Host: Matt Arnold
The conference was led by Matt Arnold, editor of The Christian Parapsychologist. In addition to his role as editor, he is the author of The Invisible Dimension: Spirit-Beings, Ghosts, and the Afterlife and a researcher, writer, and lecturer on Christianity and the paranormal. His role was crucial in guiding the discussions and ensuring that each speaker’s insights were effectively communicated. Matt’s background in parapsychology and his passion for the subject shone through, making the event both engaging and informative.
Speaker Highlights
Alan Murdie: The Gospel Miracles in Light of Psychical Research
The opening talk of the conference came from Alan Murdie, chair of the Ghost Club and a council member of the Society for Psychical Research. Murdie is a barrister who has investigated various reports of hauntings and poltergeists in the UK and overseas. He writes and broadcasts widely, including a monthly column for Fortean Times.
Murdie’s opener was a thought-provoking talk on gospel miracles in light of psychical research. He argued that nothing about them is fundamentally contradictory, incompatible, or impossible in light of the data acquired since 1882. He explored how these ancient accounts can be understood through modern parapsychological frameworks, inviting attendees to consider the implications of faith and evidence in the study of the paranormal. His talk was a rollercoaster, taking us from the history of psychical research right through to modern parapsychology, even touching on contemporary quantum physics.
Christian J. Romer: The Discernment of Spirits: The Problem with Parapsychology
Next, Christian J. Romer, a paranormal researcher, former lecturer in religion, and former Chair of the Association for the Scientific Study of Anomalous Phenomena, addressed the discernment of spirits and the challenges faced in parapsychology. CJ discussed how he believes parapsychology went wrong by solely examining the subject from a physicalist point of view, and how Christianity can help people understand it better. His insights into the scientific exploration of the unknown emphasised the importance of scepticism and critical thinking in the field, encouraging participants to approach their enquiries with both curiosity and caution.
Dr Mark Fox: Fifty Years On: Half a Century of NDEs
One of the highlights of the conference for me was Dr Mark Fox, who delivered a captivating presentation titled 50 Years On: Half a Century of NDEs. Dr Fox is a researcher, author, and lecturer who studies Fortean occurrences, near-death experiences (NDEs), and spiritual encounters. His work combines theological, neurological, and parapsychological perspectives. He is the author of Lightforms and Cold Inn, as well as a regular contributor to Fortean Times and The Christian Parapsychologist.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the term ‘Near-Death Experience’, and Dr Fox’s talk chronicled and evaluated many of the changes in the study of such experiences over that time: what we have learnt, what we have yet to learn, and where future research may lead us. He drew on a variety of NDE testimonies to reflect on his own growing understanding of them, particularly how he has come to see them through the lens of his Christian faith.
This talk resonated deeply with me, as I have experienced a few out-of-body experiences myself. Dr Fox’s exploration of NDEs revealed striking similarities to my own encounters, such as feelings of detachment from the body and altered perceptions of time and space. Listening to the stories of others who have undergone NDEs provided valuable insights into the nature of consciousness and what might lie beyond our physical existence. It also prompted me to reflect on the psychological and emotional effects of these profound experiences.
See below from the promo video for Dr Fox’s talk:
Matthew McGuire: Catharsis, Fotisis, Theosis: Christian Wisdom for Psychic Development
The first of two speakers from ‘over the pond’ in the USA was Matthew McGuire, who has a background in parapsychology and biblical studies. He discusses the relationship between parapsychology, spiritual experiences, and Christian theology in his writings and talks. In addition to writing for The Christian Parapsychologist, he is the author of A Magical World.
McGuire shared his insights on Christian wisdom for psychic development, focusing on concepts such as catharsis (the purification of the soul), fotisis (the enlightenment of the soul), and theosis (union with God). He led us through what the Christian wisdom tradition has to say regarding psychic gifts, which he maintains are latent abilities that humans are capable of. His talk encouraged attendees to consider how these spiritual principles can guide individuals in their exploration of the mystical and metaphysical realms, bridging the gap between faith and personal experience.
(Image: Looking Beyond Festival 2025. Source: E.Holohan 2025)
Jimmy Akin: Spirit Communication: A Fresh Appraisal
Finally, Jimmy Akin, the host of Jimmy Akin’s Mysterious World podcast, concluded the series of talks with a fresh appraisal of spirit communication. Akin’s work investigates the reasons behind the historical unease of many Christians regarding spirit communication techniques, including apparitions, automatic writing, mental mediumship, and spontaneous after-death contacts. His engaging presentation invited participants to reconsider the relevance of spirit communication in contemporary spiritual practices, emphasising the importance of understanding and interpreting these experiences within a modern context. His analysis, using biblical and theological perspectives, concluded that there is significantly more room for faithful Christians to engage in spirit communication than previously acknowledged.
Embracing Diverse Perspectives
Overall, the Looking Beyond conference was a remarkable experience for me as a humanist, packed with inspiring talks and engaging discussions. Each speaker brought their own unique perspective, which not only increased my understanding of parapsychology through a Christian lens but also led me to examine my own beliefs in this area. I found it particularly interesting to explore how spirituality and the paranormal can intersect with various worldviews. I wholeheartedly recommend this conference to individuals of all beliefs who are keen to learn more, as it encourages valuable insights and connections among people with diverse viewpoints. Exploring these themes is a journey well worth embarking on, and I feel fortunate to have had the chance to take part in such a fascinating event.
(Image: Summer Solstice Sunset over West Wycombe. Source: E.Holohan 2025)
As the sun reached its highest point on the longest day of the year, an energy filled the West Wycombe “Hellfire Caves”, beckoning to those eager to celebrate the Summer Solstice in a truly extraordinary manner. This historic site, rich in folklore and mystery, provided the perfect setting for a gathering that paid homage to the changing seasons while exploring fascinating pagan traditions. The Summer Solstice has been of significance for centuries across many cultures, symbolising light, renewal, and the changing of the seasons. On 21st June 2025, I had the opportunity to attend the Summer Solstice celebration at the Hellfire Caves and the Walled Garden Café in West Wycombe. The festivities kicked off at 4 PM and continued until 8 PM, offering a delightful mix of history and community spirit. In this post, we’ll delve into the importance of the Summer Solstice, the intriguing history of the Hellfire Caves, and the lively rituals that unite pagans. I’ll also share my personal reflections on this experience, capturing the essence of the day and the connections made with fellow attendees. So, come along as we embark on a journey through time and tradition, discovering how the Summer Solstice at the Hellfire Caves not only honours the past but also sparked a sense of wonder in everyone who took part.
The Significance of the Summer Solstice
The Summer Solstice is the time of year where the longest day meets the shortest night of the year, and here the ‘longest day’ refers to the day of the year with the most hours of daylight. In England, the summer solstice marks both the start of summer and, surprisingly, also midsummer. It is the time of the year when the sun is at its highest point in the sky, heralding the beginning of the astronomical summer. Meteorological summer, on the other hand, begins in the Northern Hemisphere almost a month earlier, so for many this time of year is also considered midsummer. Whichever way you prefer to view it, this is a special time of year signifying light, renewal and abundance, and since prehistory, it has been a significant time of year in many cultures, marked by festivals, fire and rituals.
(Image: Pagan wheel of the year. Photo by Monstera Production on Pexels.com)
The Oak King and the Holly King are two mythical figures linked to the Summer Solstice and the ever-turning of the seasons, both being personifications of winter and summer. The two kings are engaged in a perpetual battle of light over darkness, crop renewal and growth. At the time of the Summer Solstice, the Oak King, the lord of the brighter part of the year, is at the height of his power, while the Holly King begins his slow return towards the renewal of winter. He slowly regains his power at the autumn equinox, and by the time of the midwinter, it is the Holly King’s time to be at the height of his strength. It is at this point the Oak King is reborn to build up his power at the spring equinox, where he once again succeeds as ruler.
Our Journey and Arrival at West Wycombe
With parts of the UK experiencing their first heatwave of the year, my husband Ed, our friend Claire and I drove down from Bristol through the scorching sun. I wore my new Green Man dress, which I felt fitted the event, but immediately regretted not bringing a hat due to the searing heat of about 30°C.
s we arrived at the event, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. The sun shone brightly overhead, casting a warm glow on the vibrant surroundings. The festive spirit of the event was palpable, setting the stage for a truly memorable celebration of the Summer Solstice.
First up after we arrived, we spotted the Morris Dancers, the Aldbury Morris Men, a troupe from the Cotswolds that has been going since 1969. Their dances featured a blend of Cotswold traditions and some Border styles, accompanied by music and singing. Their rhythmic dances, accompanied by the clacking of staves and the jingling of bells, created an infectious energy that drew in the crowd. Around this time, I was almost pickpocketed by their naughty hobby horse, but my eagle eye spotted him in time before he made off with my purse! After chasing him down for a photo, he ‘mooned’ me! How rude! He claimed that as it was the summer solstice, it was a time for both the sun and the ‘moon’ to come out!
We watched the Morris Men perform several traditional dances, clacking their staves and jingling their bells as they went. Claire even took the opportunity to join in when they invited people to learn a dance with them. Not being a natural dancer myself, I felt too shy to participate but watched in amusement and interest from the sidelines.
Exploring the Hellfire Caves
After this we headed to the Hellfire Caves to cool off and catch one of Stevyn Colgan’s Solstice lectures on the folklore and traditions surrounding the solstice.
(Image: West Wycombe Caves. Source: E.Holohan 2025)
The West Wycombe “Hellfire” Caves in Buckinghamshire are a fascinating network of man-made caves carved from chalk and flint during the mid-18th century. They are famously linked to the Order of the Friars of St Francis of Wycombe, commonly known as the “Hellfire Club”, an infamous society that was established by Sir Francis Dashwood, who used the caves for their meetings and rituals.
The caves were originally dug out to provide work for local people facing tough agricultural hardship, with the materials taken from the site being used to build a new road. Over time, however, the caves transformed into a base for the Hellfire Club’s activities, which featured mock religious ceremonies and extravagant banquets, adding to the site’s notoriety for secrecy and hedonism.
I’d met Stevyn Colgan briefly at the Wycombe Paranormal Convention in 2024, where I first heard him speak, so I knew we’d be in for a treat with his talk today.
Stevyn Colgan is a British writer, artist, and speaker. He spent three decades as a police officer in London from 1980 to 2010 before moving into the creative field as a researcher and scriptwriter for the BBC series ‘QI’ and its companion show, ‘The Museum of Curiosity’, until 2018. Colgan also co-hosts the podcast ‘We’d Like a Word’, which delves into the world of books and authors. Colgan is a passionate forager and keen student of British folklore, identifying as an author, illustrator, speaker, and folklorist. On social media he describes himself as an “ex-QI elf” and “Cornish pisky” and claims to be “mostly made of hair and tea”.
(Image: Stevyn Colgan and the Hogarth Carving. Source: E.Holohan 2025)
Colgan led us into the caves and started by briefly telling us some of the history and background to the caves and the Hellfire Club. At one point he pointed out a carving by painter William Hogarth said to be of Dashwood in a pope’s hat, as the Hellfire Club enjoyed mocking the Church. Looking at the carving, it is good that Hogarth stuck with the painting instead. Of more modern interest, he described how the caves famously featured in the film “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice” (2024), whose funeral scene was filmed on the estate.
His discussion on the Summer Solstice delved into its fascinating history, myths, folklore, and traditions. Colgan told us how Milton Keynes, known for its distinctive urban layout, contains Midsummer Boulevard, which aligns perfectly with the sunrise on the summer solstice, making it a key spot for celebrations. Modern druids and witches often gather for the Midsummer festival there, which includes the Light Pyramid sculpture in Campbell Park, also aligned with the solstice sunrise.
(Image: Inside the Hellfire Caves. Source: E.Blackshaw 2025)
The solstice signifies a time of change, dividing the year into four distinct seasons, with equinoxes marking important agricultural periods like lambing and harvest. Midsummer Day, celebrated on the Pagan 22nd, and St John’s Day on the 24th in the Christian calendar are both traditionally marked by bonfires. These fires have a long history of being used for purification rituals, where young people would leap over the flames, and animals would pass through to rid themselves of ticks. The term “bonfire” actually comes from the practice of burning animal bones on these fires.
Celebrations during this time often involve feasting, dancing, and various other rituals. One tradition is to pick a flower and place it in a vase; if it wilts to the left, it is considered bad luck, while wilting to the right brings good fortune. There is also the “dumb cake” ritual, where silence must be maintained while preparing the cake, with the first slice believed to reveal one’s future husband. Additionally, on the eve of the Summer Solstice, it is said that ghostly figures knock on church doors at midnight, representing those who are destined to pass away that year. The dressing of holy wells is another part of the solstice traditions, emphasising the deep connection to nature and the spiritual significance of this time of year.
Food, Music and Flames
Feeling cooler and refreshed from the lower temperatures of the caves, we made our way back to the Walled Garden Café ‘paddock’ to enjoy a bite to eat from the food vans and listen to lively folk music performed by “My Mate Dave”, a female-fronted folk band. We set down our colourful picnic blanket and ate pizza, relaxed and listened to the festive tunes while majestic red kites hovered overhead in search of small prey for their own supper.
It was soon time for the Solstice Bonfire. The bonfire was lit a distance away from revellers for safety, but it still packed a punch; its roaring flames were impressive and primal in this already very hot weather. Bonfires on the summer solstice have ancient roots, traditionally lit to honour the sun, promote good harvests and protect from evil spirits. These practices are found in various cultures, including Celtic, Slavic, and Germanic traditions, with bonfires symbolising the sun’s strength and its role in the agricultural cycle.
Throughout the day there were other events for families and festivalgoers such as a costume competition, face painting and summer wreath and flower crown making. These activities created a joyful, family-friendly atmosphere that made the event even more memorable.
After the event concluded, we took a brief trip up to the Dashwood mausoleum, located on top of the West Wycombe Hill. The mausoleum is a hexagonal structure built of Portland stone and flint and serves as a private burial ground for the Dashwood family, including Sir Francis Dashwood and his relatives. The mausoleum is also known for housing an urn containing the heart of Paul Whitehead, a friend of Sir Francis and steward of the Hellfire Club.
We explored and lingered here a while, witnessing a vibrant rainbow appear in the sky over West Wycombe. After a moment of reflection and quiet contemplation, we finally set off back to Bristol in the soft, dwindling Summer Solstice light.
Embracing the Spirit of the Summer Solstice: Celebrating Connection and Community
(Image: With the hobby horse. Source: C.Lewis 2025)
Looking back on the day, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for the chance to celebrate the Summer Solstice in such a unique setting. From the entertaining performances of the Morris Dancers to the enlightening lecture held in the Hellfire Caves, every moment contributed to a richer appreciation of this ancient tradition. The joy of celebrating as a community was infused throughout the day as families and friends gathered to take part in the festivities, creating lasting memories together. The Summer Solstice serves as a beautiful reminder of the wonders of nature and the importance of connection, both with the earth and with one another. I invite readers to share their own summer solstice experiences or thoughts, as we continue to celebrate the light and warmth that this time of year brings.
If you enjoyed reading about my Summer Solstice experience, I would encourage you to seek out similar events in the future. Participating in community celebrations not only enriches our lives but also fosters a sense of belonging and connection. Please feel free to share this post or leave a comment with your own Summer Solstice stories or reflections. Let’s keep the spirit of the Summer Solstice alive by sharing our experiences and celebrating the light together!
(Image: Rainbow over West Wycombe. Source: E.Holohan 2025)
Have you ever wondered if ghosts, poltergeists, and all things that go bump in the night are connected by a single unseen force? John Fraser’s book, “One Big Box of ‘Paranormal Tricks’? From Ghosts to Poltergeists to the Theory of Just One Paranormal Power” dives headfirst into this idea, taking readers on a journey through the unexplained with a perfect blend of curiosity and critical thinking. Whether you’re a seasoned paranormal enthusiast or just stepping into the eerie world of the unknown, this book has something for everyone.
John Fraser is a Council member of the Society for Psychical Research and former Vice Chair for Investigations at the Ghost Club, the two oldest paranormal research groups in the UK. His studies have covered hypnotic regressions, vampire folklore, and conventional paranormal research.
Active in the field since the 1980s, John took part in long-running hypnotic regression experiments and later conducted research into supernatural events at Sandwood Bay. Since 2015, he has been investigating witness testimony related to paranormal activity at The Cage in St Osyth. He has also contributed to media discussions on the paranormal.
John Fraser’s book is part of the ‘Paranormal Perspectives’ series, which seeks to investigate what the paranormal means to a selection of writers from various backgrounds. Fraser explores paranormal phenomena under a unified theory, the theory of ‘one paranormal power’. He does this while detailing his personal journey into the paranormal, from his early sparks of interest as a youngster to his time as a seasoned researcher and Society for Psychical Research Council member. This book has appeal to paranormal believers and sceptics alike, as it is an engaging investigation that offers readers a unique blend of philosophical investigation and memoir.
A Journey Through the Unexplained
Fraser begins by explaining how it all began for him. At university, he studied philosophy and economics. He resigned from his position as an internal auditor and organised a road trip that included stops at several haunted places. He then discusses the important paranormal figures who have impacted him, like Guy Lyon Playfair and Harry Price.
Fraser then explores the nature of paranormal phenomena in chapter three, looking at hypnotic regression, ghosts, poltergeists, and other unexplained events, such as the encounter in Rendlesham Forest. Fraser concludes by discussing his theory of the “One Paranormal Power”, which proposes that there is a single underlying force that underlies all paranormal activity.
What Makes This Book Stand Out?
Fraser has a gift for balancing scepticism with an open mind, something that’s not always easy in the paranormal field. He doesn’t just present eerie encounters and theories; he challenges them, inviting readers to explore every possibility. Are poltergeists separate from ghosts, or could they be different manifestations of the same mysterious force? If there’s just one underlying paranormal power at work, what could it be? These are the kinds of questions Fraser poses, leaving you pondering long after you’ve turned the final page.
His writing style is conversational and immersive, making even the most complex theories easy to digest. Fraser’s account is well-written, thoroughly researched, and adopts an engaging and thought-provoking approach, employing great storytelling to make sure the book is not just informative but also entertaining and easy to read. Every chapter skillfully blends reflective analysis of paranormal phenomena along with personal tales.
One of the most interesting aspects of the book for me is Fraser’s recounting of his initial plunge into the paranormal field, in which he gives vivid accounts of his early experiences. Here, he describes the events and encounters that sparked his interest in the unexplained. These explanations are complemented by his comments on mentors and role models who had a significant impact on his approach and knowledge.
Notably, Fraser honours well-known paranormal individuals such as Harry Price and Colin Wilson, whose pioneering work served as the foundation for his own investigations. I relished the narrative of his interactions with Peter Underwood, which demonstrated their genuine connection and friendship. This examination of his own influences gives readers an understanding of the intellectual heritage that informs his viewpoints.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Fraser’s book is how it subtly engages with the long-standing debate between psychological explanations and supernatural interpretations of paranormal phenomena. While he presents compelling cases for the existence of ghosts and poltergeists, he also acknowledges alternative explanations, such as environmental factors (electromagnetic fields, infrasound, or other environmental conditions), cognitive and neurological perspectives and parapsychological explanations (e.g., psychokinesis—particularly in relation to poltergeist activity).
(Author John Fraser. Image Source: J.Fraser)
This balanced approach makes the book appealing to both believers and sceptics. However, a deeper engagement with scientific and psychological studies on anomalous experiences would have added even more weight to his arguments.
Where the Book Could Go Further
While the book is packed with intriguing insights, some of the scientific explanations could go deeper. If you’re the type who loves diving into parapsychological research, you might find yourself wanting a bit more hard data and experimental analysis. Of course, there are many other books out there already that cover such aspects in more detail that the reader can seek out for further research if required.
If you’re new to the paranormal field, this book is an excellent gateway. Fraser keeps the tone inviting and avoids overwhelming jargon, making it easy to follow even if you’ve never read a book on the subject before. For the seasoned enthusiasts, even if you’ve been delving into the paranormal for years, you’ll appreciate Fraser’s fresh take on long-standing debates. While some sections may feel like familiar ground, the way he ties different phenomena together offers new food for thought.
Final Verdict: A Must-Read for Paranormal Enthusiasts?
Fraser’s Paranormal Perspectives isn’t just a book—it’s an invitation to think, question, and explore. It challenges readers to reconsider what they believe, weigh the evidence, and entertain new possibilities. Whether you’re in it for the eerie case studies, the deep theoretical discussions, or just the thrill of the unknown, this book delivers. So, what do you think—could all paranormal phenomena really be part of one great mystery? Or are we only scratching the surface of something even stranger?
DATE: December 2024 SUBJECT: The Uncanny Convergence
Summary of Findings
Experts, enthusiasts, and witnesses of the unexplained converged at the Southbank Centre this past weekend for UncannyCon 2024, an extraordinary gathering dedicated to uncovering the truths behind our world’s mysteries. What unfolded was a mix of chilling revelations, healthy debates, and eerie encounters that left attendees both spellbound and intrigued. Below, you will find a dossier summarising the key phenomena from this event. Proceed with caution: the uncanny lingers within.
Case Note #1: Meet the Witnesses – The Haunted Speak
Subjects: Heather (Oxford Exorcism), Vee (Ghost Horses of Averham), Amanda (Elton’s Phone), Helen (Meadow Cottage).
Details: Witnesses to some of Uncanny’s most infamous cases convened to share their harrowing encounters. The session began with an unsettling energy, as each witness recounted experiences ranging from spectral riders to haunted phones and poltergeist-ridden cottages. The air grew heavier as Heather’s recounting of The Oxford Exorcism induced chills throughout many in the audience. The session raised a terrifying question: how does one live when haunted by the inexplicable?
Case Note #2: Borley Rectory – Hoax or Haunting?
Subjects: Sean O’Connor, Jon Culshaw, Ciaran O’Keeffe, Deborah Hyde.
Analysis: Dubbed “Britain’s Most Haunted House,” Borley Rectory’s lore was dissected in forensic detail. Paranormal sceptics Ciaran O’Keeffe and Deborah Hyde faced off with Sean O’Connor, author of The Haunting of Borley Rectory. Comedian Jon Culshaw deftly moderated the session, keeping the debate both lively and gripping. Was the rectory a hotspot for spirits, or merely the stage for an eerie hoax? Verdict: inconclusive.
Case Note #3: Ask the Experts – A Spirited Discussion
Subjects: Evelyn Hollow, Chris French, Richard Freeman, Deborah Hyde, Ciaran O’Keeffe.
Highlights: This fiery panel saw believers and sceptics clash in a battle of logic and belief. From poltergeists to cryptids, no stone was left unturned. Folklorist Deborah Hyde’s sceptical takes clashed delightfully with cryptozoologist Richard Freeman’s zoological expertise and field knowledge of the Hairy Man. Chris French’s sharp insights added gravitas to the debate, particularly when UFOs entered the conversation. The crowd erupted when tensions boiled on the topic of Bigfoot—a rare moment when both believers and sceptics seemed to partially agree: something is out there.
Case Note #4: The Uncannyversity Challenge Quiz – A Battle of Wits
Teams: Team Believer (Captained by Evelyn Hollow) vs. Team Sceptic (Captained by Ciaran O’Keeffe).
Outcome: In this fiercely competitive showdown, paranormal prowess was tested as teams answered questions on the podcast’s most enigmatic cases. The questions were expertly written by a member of the Uncanny Community, and kept participates on their toes. Team Believer triumphed; their victory cemented by an unshakable knowledge of the paranormal. The atmosphere was electric, with cheers, groans, and a sense of camaraderie pervading the room. Evidence suggests this was one of the most enjoyable highlights of the weekend.
Case Note #5: The Return to Luibeilt
Subjects: Danny Robins, Phil (Don’t Sleep in This House, The Curse of Luibeilt).
Evidence Presented: A gripping video chronicled Danny and Phil’s perilous return to the desolate ruins of Luibeilt, site of The Curse of Luibeilt. The footage revealed chilling new discoveries at this forboding spot. Danny and Phil’s firsthand account of the expedition left the audience glued to their seats. Questions linger: has Luibeilt’s curse remained?
Case Note #6: Signing Sessions – Close Encounters
Observations: Fans flocked to meet their favourite witnesses and experts during signing sessions. Unexpected phenomena: numerous attendees reported unprompted chills and goosebumps when recounting their own paranormal experiences to the panel. Was this coincidence, or something more?
Case Note #7: The Christmas Special Live Recording
Subjects: Reece Shearsmith, Evelyn Hollow.
Notable Occurrence: Anticipation reached fever pitch during this live recording of the upcoming Uncanny Christmas Special. Attendees became part of the story as they witnessed eerie events unfold in real time. Notably, questions remain regarding an audience member’s experience of the mysterious activation of an Alexa by a terrifying voice. This sent shivers through the room. Coincidence? The audience left with more questions than answers.
Case Note #8: A Community United
Observation: Beyond the scheduled programming, the true phenomenon of UncannyCon 2024 was the palpable sense of connection among attendees. Enthusiasts swapped stories, debated theories, and forged new alliances in their shared pursuit of the unexplained. This collective energy resonated throughout the venue, creating a unique atmosphere that attendees described as both invigorating and enriching.
Special Eyewitness Report
Filed by: The Goblin.
Observations: The Uncanny phenomenon extends well beyond the day’s events and into the vibrant community that has coalesced around this core. This was an opportunity to form new friendships, and to cement existing ones. The carousing extends late into the night, after the events of the day are now mere memories, lubricated perhaps with a drop too much of potent gooseberry wine. Whilst we are all maybe a touch worse for wear in the morning, we wouldn’t swap a treasured moment of this time spent in excellent company for the world. *hic*
Conclusion:Why UncannyCon 2024 Will Haunt Us
UncannyCon 2024 wasn’t merely an event; it was an initiation into a deeper realm of curiosity and wonder. By blending chilling tales, rigorous debate, and communal spirit, it captured the essence of what makes the Uncanny phenomenon so captivating. For believers, sceptics, and the simply curious, this convention offered an experience that will linger in their minds like a half-remembered dream—or perhaps, a whisper from beyond.
Until we gather again: stay curious, stay sceptical, and, above all, stay Uncanny.
(GhostÉire interview with Ghost Catcher Isles. Image Credit: GhostÉire Channel)
If you’re someone who feels the tantalising pull toward the strange and supernatural, then this one’s for you. Picture this: a quiet Saturday night, lights dimmed, a flickering candle perhaps—and there I was, live on the GhostÉire Channel, diving headfirst into the world of the paranormal. Together with my incredible host Anthony Kerrigan, we opened the door to stories, historic sites, and legendary mysteries. Members of the “Uncanny Community” and paranormal enthusiasts tuned in, sharing in the experience as we wandered through tales of ancient landscapes and whispered legends. But if you missed it, don’t worry: the full recording is waiting for you, ready to be explored at your own pace.
A Bond Forged Through an Uncanny Curiosity
We kicked off the night by discussing my passion for the podcast Uncanny and the amazing ‘Uncanny Community’ it has fostered. There’s something powerful about this community: a place where like-minded individuals gather to share their strange encounters, eerie experiences, and shared fascination with the unknown. The support, curiosity, and friendship are inspiring, making it the perfect place for those drawn to the mysterious to connect.
Mysteries Carved into the Earth: The Uffington White Horse and Wayland’s Smithy
Our next stop on this haunted journey took us to one of Britain’s most iconic sites: the Uffington White Horse, a massive chalk figure etched into an Oxfordshire hillside that has withstood nearly 3,000 years of history. There’s a sacred stillness to it, a feeling that resonates with something far older than we’ll ever know. Is it a mark of ancient ritual, a tribute to old gods, or simply a beacon carved to guide travellers of the past? Each theory adds a layer of wonder to this timeless mystery.
(Wayland’s Smithy. Image Credit: E.Holohan)
And just a stone’s throw away lies Wayland’s Smithy, an ancient burial site nestled within this mysterious landscape. It’s a place that buzzes with mystery. Standing there, surrounded by earth that’s seen so much, you can’t help but wonder what these ancient builders believed and what secrets they took with them.
The Haunting Sounds of the Whispering Mummies
(The Crypt under St Michan’s. Image Credit: E.Holohan)
Our final topic was one that feels both spine-tingling and sombre: the Whispering Mummies of St. Michan’s Church in Dublin. Interred in crypts beneath this centuries-old church, the mummified remains have become legend, and some say that if you listen closely, the mummies themselves seem to whisper secrets of a bygone time. There’s a strange, haunting beauty here, where history and the supernatural meet in the stillness. The whispers, or maybe just the echoes of centuries, remind us that death is a mystery we all ponder, and yet, here we are, side-by-side with those who came long before us.
Join Us on a Journey Into the Unknown
If you have a passion for the paranormal or a love for history that holds shadows and secrets, this conversation is an invitation to journey with me and my host Anthony. Each story shared brought its own sense of wonder, its own question that lingered in the air. So, wrap up in a blanket, dim the lights, and join us in exploring these mysteries. Watch the full recording on the GhostÉire Channel and step with us into a world where every answer brings another question; and where the unknown is always just a little closer than we think.
Ghost Catcher Isles 
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