Wyrd is for the groups and individuals who watch the sky for UFOs, spend nights in haunted buildings, investigate crop circles, leys and other Earth Mysteries, follow the trails of strange beasts, and delve into the archives of local antiquarian societies for traditional tales and legends in the hope of illuminating current unexplained happenings.

The magazine is multi-disciplinary and non-partisan. It aims to be a forum for dialogue and discussion, and a place for presenting new ideas and the results of research.

Wyrd is edited by Totnes writer Bob Mann, who has over 20 years' experience of free-lance journalism, and is the author of several guides and topographical portraits of places in the English westcountry, including a study of the hauntings in his home town. He has also been folklore recorder for the Devonshire Association. He writes: 'I come to the world of Forteana with no axe to grind or grand theory to proclaim. I am neither sceptic nor true believer. Much of my own work is inspired by the history, creative associations and traditional culture of specific localities. I have always been fascinated by the way folklore reveals the inner, secret life of a particular time and place, expressing a community's fears, anxieties, desires and fantasies about itself. I believe the folkloric approach is a fruitful way of looking at Fortean phenomena, but will not be imposing any definite line or view on contributors.'

The first issue of Wyrd will include an interview with the Rev. Lionel Fanthorpe, prolific author and master Fortean researcher, and major articles by Nick Redfern, Jonathan Downes, Tim Matthews and Richard Freeman, plus book reviews and news from all over the Fortean community.

If you are interested in contributing, subscribing or getting involved in any way, please e-mail Bob Mann.

Alternatively you can write to him at:

The Flat,
56 Fore St,
Totnes,
Devon TQ9 5RU.

Tel 01803 866250. CONTINUE FOR DETAILS OF ISSUE ONE