On 10th February 2007 Mandy & Paul from 'Tribute To Most Haunted' & 'Paranormal United' joined Phil Whyman ( Most Haunted & Scream Team ) via Dead Haunted Nights for a paranormal investigation night in Margam Castle. Dead Haunted Nights promo line is ...Do you want to spend a night in one of this country's most haunted locations? Do you want one of the best known personalities, Phil Whyman, in the world of Paranormal Television to be your host for the event? Our answer was YES.
Read the report at Paranormal United
http://www.paranormalunited.com/marghamcastle.htm
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Exclusive Interview With Ian Shillito
Ian Shillito Interview With Paranormal United - 16th January 2007
Overview Of Ian Shillito
Originally from Braintree in Essex, Ian John Shillito, is a sensitive and ghost hunter. After studying fine art and theatre design, he ended up working as a Stage Manager in London’s Theatre land. Since he was a child, he had many spiritual and paranormal encounters but put it all to one side.
The spiritual side of his life resurfaced in 2002 after a visit to Ayers Rock in Australia. Things changed from then on. He ended up developing his awareness and discovered a latent passion. He was fortunate to be asked to participate on series 8 of MH and MH live. He is the first psychic to be buried alive on national television in an experiment to discover whether a psychic can pick up on residual energy deep within the earth of a haunted moat.
Ian now runs The London Paranormal Society.
Image Copyrighted to Ian Shillito
Interview by Paul & Mandy of Paranormal United
Q: Hello Ian, firstly may we thank you for taking the time to answer our questions today. So Ian can you tell us a little about the London Paranormal Society and how it came about?
A: The London Paranormal society was created in order to give the people of London and the south-east a chance to participate in a paranormal vigil. I want to try and dispel the fear created by the current trend in the supernatural as I feel it can hamper our spiritual connection. London is one of the most haunted cities in the world and this is due to its 2000 year history and 2000 year habitation. Wherever there is history, there are ghosts. I feel most haunted locations are full of visual memories, thought forms and masses of psychic energy. I feel spirit have better things to do rather than hang around in turmoil rattling chains.
Q: When we last spoke you where in the midst of having your first book published. Can you give us an update on how pen and paper have gone and what’s in store for us?
A: ‘West End Theatre Ghosts, a paranormal journey’ is released Halloween 2007 Tempus Publishing, Myself and co-author, Becky Walsh, have investigated and compiled all the theatres ghost and paranormal stories in London’s West End. We have interviewed many West End stars and backstage staff, including Judy Dench and Donald Sinden. I’m busy editing and researching photographs. I am also working on another ghost project which will remain secret for the time being – but its great fun.
Q: It’s now over two years since you began working as a psychic medium. How old were you when you recognised you had ‘the gift’, how did you develop it and what made you make the move professionally into this field?
A: Things change so rapidly, I never really like to label things especially myself. If I have to, I prefer to call myself a sensitive these days. Society makes tremendous assumptions regarding psychics and mediums, and immediately put you into a box and expect you to act in a certain way. I am just plain old Ian from Essex. I do what I do. In hindsight I noticed strange things happen throughout my life, I seemed to attract some sort of paranormal activity. When I was very young, I remember talking to, what looked like an elemental. The being sat on top of my wardrobe most nights chatting way. I went through a fairly traumatic time in 2002 and ended up taking myself off to Australia, it was here whilst standing alone at Ayers Rock that something happened. A wake up call I can’t really explain it. There is something very spiritual about Australia. I came back to London and started to meet people on the same path. I went to the college of psychic studies in London (a great first port of call for anyone interested in this field, tho they are not a great fan on the paranormal) I am and always will be developing or as I call it unfolding. I learn new things every day. I am not one of the x – men or have a special gift. I have what we all have - The ability to listen to our inner psychic.
Q: You are best known to us through Living TV’s Most Haunted. What is/was it like working on the show, and has it affected your professional career positively, or do you feel being in the public eye has been detrimental?
A: It was a great experience working on the show, I learnt a lot. More than anything I realised my passion lay with understanding the paranormal, after all I have experienced it for most of my life. I had the chance to travel across the country as a guest of paranormal companies. I wanted the public the experience the night vigil but more importantly I wanted them to feel something, more often than not, it is only there own psychic energy- but sometimes that is enough to open a doorway to their own spiritual journey. It is something that I continue to do. I am very bemused by the whole psychic celebrity thing and don’t really understand the nations current obsession with fame. I’m not in the public eye and don’t get recognised and I am happy with that.
Q: Would you want to go down the line of Derek Acorah & Colin Fry, to name a few, and become a regular on a TV show, which of course can bring about some criticism, normally thanks to the British press or would you prefer to stay at a less publicised level?
A: To be honest, its time to move on. It was very important a few years ago for the then minority grouped psychics to have a prime time slot. It opened a pathway and got spiritual awareness into many people’s homes. This had a time limit. They now have to pull away for a while in order to let the dust settle and let people make up there own minds up. Some of the best mediums in the world work normal day jobs although it is good to have role models, however the sceptics and press are always there sharpening there knives. It is certainly a road I would not go down now.
Q: Parapsychologists are always looking for the scientific evidence to endorse mediums gifts. Have you ever undergone any ‘tests’ of this kind and how do you warrant them?
A: I haven’t had any tests done. It’s not an area I wish to enter. If the parapsychologists need evidence then they ought to be attending some of the closed physical mediumship circles that are happening recently. Actual spirit manifestation – what more proof will they need?
Q: What would be your advice to any reader who has a gift but is unsure how to channel and develop it?
A: For starters it’s not a gift – we all have an ability to communicate, however some are highly tuned. Also stop trying! Let it happen naturally, if you are seeing actual manifested spirit forms, then go to your local spiritual church, it ok for a first port of call. If you are running around haunted locations, sensing spirit then the chances are you are psychically picking up on residual energies. Still very paranormal and interesting. Enjoy it, read as much as possible but don’t take everything on board, make your own mind up.
Q: You often hear mediums being asked if they can foresee the lottery results or help at casino. How would you answer such a question?
A: I don’t feel it is possible to foretell the exact future, as we all have fee will. It is said that one can’t use ones abilities for financial gain. However we can start to use the universal law of attraction – like attracts like and positive thinking. Create a positive thought and put it in the present – ‘ I am financially abundant’ visualize yourself sitting in a bath of dosh – the day I did it, I received the phone call from my publisher!
Q: Returning to your paranormal experience. Of all the sites you have investigated in your career we must ask what’s the most memorable experience and why?
A: Bodelwydenn Castle in North Wales, with my mates from Haunted Experience. We all witnessed, what can be only described as a mini universe of light and starts appear all over a wall and ceiling. One sceptic guy started crying at the beauty of it all. Then a small blue light appeared in the centre pulsing. It was amazing.
Q: Last year you were buried alive for two hours with Karl Beattie (Most Haunted) in the grounds of Southsea Castle. Many viewers saw your initial reaction. Can you tell us about this extraordinary event and your thoughts now you have had some time to reflect?
A: It was all very quick to be honest, after the first 30 mins I relaxed. I came out of it realising that we all have residual images flicking continuously through our sub conscious mind. If we takeaway a sense and other distractions then we start to go into a mild medative state. The images then become more apparent. It’s a great ice breaker at parties!
Q: We have read you are going to investigate the Secret Nuclear Bunker 20 miles outside London in March 2007. What made you want to investigate such a place, what do you hope to find, and will you be covering the whole bunker, including the laboratory, dorms, military HQ etc?
A: I am very interested in proving history and time can create ghosts.( residual replay) I am also interested how we all create psychic energy under certain psychological conditions. The bunker is a three floored concrete cell hidden 100 feet in the ground – the longer one stays the stranger one feels. Turn off the lights and anything thing could happen. I am planning to concentrate on light anomalies created by our fear. I adore this location. I am fed up with haunted castles and pubs
Q: What other sites you are planning to investigate in the near future and what interests you about them?
A: That’s a big secret – I am currently going on rekkie’s in London and found some hidden gems I never knew existed. I try to find places that haven’t been investigated before. However, I have been asked to participate with this years paranormal trade show 12th+13th May – The Mystic Arts festival. LPS are holding 2 special events that weekend. On Sunday 13th, we are very privileged to investigate The London Dungeon. To book - www.themysticarts.co.uk, also we are coming to Sunderland and the North East Aircraft museum on march 17th to book - enquiries@londonparanormalsociety.co.uk
Q: Is there anyone in the paranormal field today that you would like to work with on such an investigation and why?
A: I would like to work with Chris Fleming (Dead Famous); I like his enthusiasm and passion. Also I would like to work again with Steve Parsons (Para-science) I like his attitude, sense of humour and his interest in the science of spirit.
Q: Of the many paranormal programmes that are now on television which ones do you watch or rate?
A: To be honest, I rarely watch them anymore. I did see a few episodes of USA show – Ghost hunters a while back- very down to earth.
Q: We know of late you have been asked to become the patron of The Alex Galpin Foundation. Can you tell us about the foundation and why it is so important to you?
A: The Foundation was created in order to raise money for a care home for the spiritually minded. Alex was in tune with spirit and unfortunately became very ill. Eventually, he had to go into a care home. His spirit awareness was seen as a side effect to medication and not treated sympathetically. Obviously, this was very frustrating for Alex. We hope to raise awareness to this issue and in term open a suitable home. I am first on the list!
Q: What else do you have planned for 2007, any plans for you to return to the TV screens in the paranormal field in the near future?
A: I want to concentrate getting the society up and running and also establishing my series of Ghostly Encounter workshops throughout the year. There is always space for paranormal TV, but I feel the psychic programmes are becoming tiresome. I have several projects that can eventually morph into possible TV shows but at present it’s all on paper. Who knows what lies in store? Not knowing is part of the fun
Many thanks to Ian Shillito for taking part in this interview, and we wish him every success with his new books and investigations.
Overview Of Ian Shillito
Originally from Braintree in Essex, Ian John Shillito, is a sensitive and ghost hunter. After studying fine art and theatre design, he ended up working as a Stage Manager in London’s Theatre land. Since he was a child, he had many spiritual and paranormal encounters but put it all to one side.
The spiritual side of his life resurfaced in 2002 after a visit to Ayers Rock in Australia. Things changed from then on. He ended up developing his awareness and discovered a latent passion. He was fortunate to be asked to participate on series 8 of MH and MH live. He is the first psychic to be buried alive on national television in an experiment to discover whether a psychic can pick up on residual energy deep within the earth of a haunted moat.
Ian now runs The London Paranormal Society.
Image Copyrighted to Ian Shillito
Interview by Paul & Mandy of Paranormal United
Q: Hello Ian, firstly may we thank you for taking the time to answer our questions today. So Ian can you tell us a little about the London Paranormal Society and how it came about?
A: The London Paranormal society was created in order to give the people of London and the south-east a chance to participate in a paranormal vigil. I want to try and dispel the fear created by the current trend in the supernatural as I feel it can hamper our spiritual connection. London is one of the most haunted cities in the world and this is due to its 2000 year history and 2000 year habitation. Wherever there is history, there are ghosts. I feel most haunted locations are full of visual memories, thought forms and masses of psychic energy. I feel spirit have better things to do rather than hang around in turmoil rattling chains.
Q: When we last spoke you where in the midst of having your first book published. Can you give us an update on how pen and paper have gone and what’s in store for us?
A: ‘West End Theatre Ghosts, a paranormal journey’ is released Halloween 2007 Tempus Publishing, Myself and co-author, Becky Walsh, have investigated and compiled all the theatres ghost and paranormal stories in London’s West End. We have interviewed many West End stars and backstage staff, including Judy Dench and Donald Sinden. I’m busy editing and researching photographs. I am also working on another ghost project which will remain secret for the time being – but its great fun.
Q: It’s now over two years since you began working as a psychic medium. How old were you when you recognised you had ‘the gift’, how did you develop it and what made you make the move professionally into this field?
A: Things change so rapidly, I never really like to label things especially myself. If I have to, I prefer to call myself a sensitive these days. Society makes tremendous assumptions regarding psychics and mediums, and immediately put you into a box and expect you to act in a certain way. I am just plain old Ian from Essex. I do what I do. In hindsight I noticed strange things happen throughout my life, I seemed to attract some sort of paranormal activity. When I was very young, I remember talking to, what looked like an elemental. The being sat on top of my wardrobe most nights chatting way. I went through a fairly traumatic time in 2002 and ended up taking myself off to Australia, it was here whilst standing alone at Ayers Rock that something happened. A wake up call I can’t really explain it. There is something very spiritual about Australia. I came back to London and started to meet people on the same path. I went to the college of psychic studies in London (a great first port of call for anyone interested in this field, tho they are not a great fan on the paranormal) I am and always will be developing or as I call it unfolding. I learn new things every day. I am not one of the x – men or have a special gift. I have what we all have - The ability to listen to our inner psychic.
Q: You are best known to us through Living TV’s Most Haunted. What is/was it like working on the show, and has it affected your professional career positively, or do you feel being in the public eye has been detrimental?
A: It was a great experience working on the show, I learnt a lot. More than anything I realised my passion lay with understanding the paranormal, after all I have experienced it for most of my life. I had the chance to travel across the country as a guest of paranormal companies. I wanted the public the experience the night vigil but more importantly I wanted them to feel something, more often than not, it is only there own psychic energy- but sometimes that is enough to open a doorway to their own spiritual journey. It is something that I continue to do. I am very bemused by the whole psychic celebrity thing and don’t really understand the nations current obsession with fame. I’m not in the public eye and don’t get recognised and I am happy with that.
Q: Would you want to go down the line of Derek Acorah & Colin Fry, to name a few, and become a regular on a TV show, which of course can bring about some criticism, normally thanks to the British press or would you prefer to stay at a less publicised level?
A: To be honest, its time to move on. It was very important a few years ago for the then minority grouped psychics to have a prime time slot. It opened a pathway and got spiritual awareness into many people’s homes. This had a time limit. They now have to pull away for a while in order to let the dust settle and let people make up there own minds up. Some of the best mediums in the world work normal day jobs although it is good to have role models, however the sceptics and press are always there sharpening there knives. It is certainly a road I would not go down now.
Q: Parapsychologists are always looking for the scientific evidence to endorse mediums gifts. Have you ever undergone any ‘tests’ of this kind and how do you warrant them?
A: I haven’t had any tests done. It’s not an area I wish to enter. If the parapsychologists need evidence then they ought to be attending some of the closed physical mediumship circles that are happening recently. Actual spirit manifestation – what more proof will they need?
Q: What would be your advice to any reader who has a gift but is unsure how to channel and develop it?
A: For starters it’s not a gift – we all have an ability to communicate, however some are highly tuned. Also stop trying! Let it happen naturally, if you are seeing actual manifested spirit forms, then go to your local spiritual church, it ok for a first port of call. If you are running around haunted locations, sensing spirit then the chances are you are psychically picking up on residual energies. Still very paranormal and interesting. Enjoy it, read as much as possible but don’t take everything on board, make your own mind up.
Q: You often hear mediums being asked if they can foresee the lottery results or help at casino. How would you answer such a question?
A: I don’t feel it is possible to foretell the exact future, as we all have fee will. It is said that one can’t use ones abilities for financial gain. However we can start to use the universal law of attraction – like attracts like and positive thinking. Create a positive thought and put it in the present – ‘ I am financially abundant’ visualize yourself sitting in a bath of dosh – the day I did it, I received the phone call from my publisher!
Q: Returning to your paranormal experience. Of all the sites you have investigated in your career we must ask what’s the most memorable experience and why?
A: Bodelwydenn Castle in North Wales, with my mates from Haunted Experience. We all witnessed, what can be only described as a mini universe of light and starts appear all over a wall and ceiling. One sceptic guy started crying at the beauty of it all. Then a small blue light appeared in the centre pulsing. It was amazing.
Q: Last year you were buried alive for two hours with Karl Beattie (Most Haunted) in the grounds of Southsea Castle. Many viewers saw your initial reaction. Can you tell us about this extraordinary event and your thoughts now you have had some time to reflect?
A: It was all very quick to be honest, after the first 30 mins I relaxed. I came out of it realising that we all have residual images flicking continuously through our sub conscious mind. If we takeaway a sense and other distractions then we start to go into a mild medative state. The images then become more apparent. It’s a great ice breaker at parties!
Q: We have read you are going to investigate the Secret Nuclear Bunker 20 miles outside London in March 2007. What made you want to investigate such a place, what do you hope to find, and will you be covering the whole bunker, including the laboratory, dorms, military HQ etc?
A: I am very interested in proving history and time can create ghosts.( residual replay) I am also interested how we all create psychic energy under certain psychological conditions. The bunker is a three floored concrete cell hidden 100 feet in the ground – the longer one stays the stranger one feels. Turn off the lights and anything thing could happen. I am planning to concentrate on light anomalies created by our fear. I adore this location. I am fed up with haunted castles and pubs
Q: What other sites you are planning to investigate in the near future and what interests you about them?
A: That’s a big secret – I am currently going on rekkie’s in London and found some hidden gems I never knew existed. I try to find places that haven’t been investigated before. However, I have been asked to participate with this years paranormal trade show 12th+13th May – The Mystic Arts festival. LPS are holding 2 special events that weekend. On Sunday 13th, we are very privileged to investigate The London Dungeon. To book - www.themysticarts.co.uk, also we are coming to Sunderland and the North East Aircraft museum on march 17th to book - enquiries@londonparanormalsociety.co.uk
Q: Is there anyone in the paranormal field today that you would like to work with on such an investigation and why?
A: I would like to work with Chris Fleming (Dead Famous); I like his enthusiasm and passion. Also I would like to work again with Steve Parsons (Para-science) I like his attitude, sense of humour and his interest in the science of spirit.
Q: Of the many paranormal programmes that are now on television which ones do you watch or rate?
A: To be honest, I rarely watch them anymore. I did see a few episodes of USA show – Ghost hunters a while back- very down to earth.
Q: We know of late you have been asked to become the patron of The Alex Galpin Foundation. Can you tell us about the foundation and why it is so important to you?
A: The Foundation was created in order to raise money for a care home for the spiritually minded. Alex was in tune with spirit and unfortunately became very ill. Eventually, he had to go into a care home. His spirit awareness was seen as a side effect to medication and not treated sympathetically. Obviously, this was very frustrating for Alex. We hope to raise awareness to this issue and in term open a suitable home. I am first on the list!
Q: What else do you have planned for 2007, any plans for you to return to the TV screens in the paranormal field in the near future?
A: I want to concentrate getting the society up and running and also establishing my series of Ghostly Encounter workshops throughout the year. There is always space for paranormal TV, but I feel the psychic programmes are becoming tiresome. I have several projects that can eventually morph into possible TV shows but at present it’s all on paper. Who knows what lies in store? Not knowing is part of the fun
Many thanks to Ian Shillito for taking part in this interview, and we wish him every success with his new books and investigations.
Exclusive Interview With Phil Whyman
Phil Whyman Interview With Paranormal United - 11th January 2007
Overview Of Phil Whyman
Phil Whyman is the former paranormal expert / presenter of Living TV’s much acclaimed flagship television series, ‘Most Haunted’.
His knowledge and views on all things paranormal have been called upon on numerous occasions for radio, television and newspaper articles and his fresh and rational approach to the subject has seen Phil become a respected figure in this genre.
In July 2002 he was chosen as one of the main on-screen cast members from 1500 applicants to investigate reports of occultism, ghosts and hauntings for Living TV’s successful 10 episode series ‘Scream Team’. Phil’s appearance on the show brought him to the attention of Antix Productions, the production team behind Living TV’s phenomenally successful ghost investigation show ‘Most Haunted’.
Here Phil Whyman became the resident paranormal expert / presenter working alongside Yvette Fielding and Derek Acorah for 3 series (30 episodes). He also adopted the same role for 7 ‘Most Haunted-LIVE’ events, each of which amassed viewing figures averaging almost 1 million.
Phil is also a keen musician and used to play keyboards in a band called PESKY. He has his own CD, 'Within the Matrix', which is for sale via his website.
Phil is now working freelance while running Dead Haunted Nights, where he takes the public out on overnight paranormal investigations sharing the knowledge he has amassed over the last 12 years as a paranormal investigator.
Phil Whyman Interview by Paul & Mandy of Paranormal United
Q: Hi Phil, happy new year and thank you for the chance to talk with you today. Firstly congratulations on the success of Dead Haunted Nights, can we ask what’s it like going out with the public to such renowned sites as Galleries Of Justice and Woodchester Mansion in comparison to with a full TV crew and renown psychic?
A: Hi all, and Happy New year to you too! In some respects going to locations with the general public is actually easier than with a film crew. Filming a TV show is much more constructed and tighter with the way things are run and you are always having to think about what you are saying and doing as if you get it wrong it can be very time consuming. Whereas with the public you can relax more, have a laugh (vital if someone is frightened about doing an investigation to chill them out a little) and not worry about fluffing what you say. I find it fascinating seeing how people cope with being in such places as those that you mention…lol.
Q: How did Dead Haunted Nights come about and how did you meet Chris, Nick and Vince, and how do they find working with you and your zany sense of humour?
A: Lol…Dead Haunted Nights came about in 2004 when I was chatting to Ian Lawman concerning working together on projects. There were a couple of groups already doing overnight events and we just thought ‘we can do that…’, so we did. Of course people had the added bonus of asking either myself or Ian about our TV experiences. I met Nick and Chris in June / July 2004. Nick works in one of the stores in Lincoln city centre and I met him when I went into where he works, and from there I met Chris who is a friend of his. Chris does the DHN website updating etc. Vince actually came on a location with us as a paying member of the public, where I got to know him and eventually asked him to become a DHN team leader. He’s a member of Swadlincote Paranormal Investigation group too. I must admit they are all great and without them DHN would have struggled…cheers guys! As for my sense of humour…we’re all similar in that dept, so they cope fine!
Q: Which places are you looking forward to investigating with them this year?
A: I’m looking forward to doing Margam Castle in Wales as well as the Coalhouse Fort (Essex). We’re really lucky this year as we have some great new venues coming up which I can’t wait for. We’ve also got Darlington Civic Theatre (Darlington) and Valentines Mansion (London) as well as old favourites the Galleries of Justice (Nottingham) and The Red Lion (Avebury). Should be interesting!
Q: Do you feel that the highlighted interest in the paranormal due to programmes such as Most Haunted and Dead Famous has been positive or detrimental to professional paranormal investigation and why ?
A: I think it has done no harm at all. After all, the paranormal subject was something that people did not really understand and a few people even looked on it and frowned. However, that has all changed and in no small part to the screening of such programs as MH and DF. It is always hard to get the mix right in a TV show – some will love it, others hate it – but it does not stop paranormal investigators getting out there and doing what they enjoy!
Q: Do you miss the limelight of television and do you have any plans to return to our screens? We know you did a pilot of your own programme called Spirit Seekers, what progress is there with it?
A: I do miss it…who wouldn’t. But the general public have been very kind to me and sometimes it still amazes me at their generosity, it’s like I’m still on the box every week and people are constantly stopping me for a chat! ‘Spirit Seekers’ has gone to the great graveyard in the sky reserved to pilot shows…lol. Looking back at it I did enjoy doing it, but I would have done things differently (I even asked if I could help direct / produce the pilot using the knowledge gained from MH, but was turned down!).
Q: Of all the sites you have investigated over your career we must ask what’s the most memorable experience and why?
A: Crikey…erm…tough question! This tends to change each time I am asked this as I usually remember another incident, lol. I have had a couple of strange experiences at Peterborough Museum, very recently too. The first was when I was in one of the rooms and I was sat talking to one of the guests on an event DHN held there. As I turned to face the chap in question I saw a bare arm, bent at the elbow, right in front of my face! I don’t normally mention an experience if I am not certain I witnessed it, but this I swear was there. The other was in the cellar at the museum. A group of us were sat in there when something quite heavy was thrown onto the materials in front of us…made us jump I can tell you! Brannigans nightclub with MH was one location I will always remember, very spooky and only the second one I ever did with them!
Q: Reading many investigation reports there are always references to orbs and light anomalies, what’s your professional view towards them? Are they all purely reflections of light on dust? If not how do you distinguish between the two?
A: I’m not an orb fan myself well, not of 90% of them at least. I think there are far more down to Earth explanations for these anomalies like dust or other airborne particle. However, I have seen some on TV programs that are very intriguing. These are normally larger than the usual little things seen frequently on cameras, and tend to zip about and change direction at pace before vanishing. I haven’t seen many though in all honesty. But, I’m not here to persuade you one way or the other, so please come to your own conclusions (as with all paranormal incidents).
Q: What have you ever caught on camera or film yourself that is beyond rational and scientific explanation?
A: I was at a famously haunted location in Goosnargh (Lancashire), and I took two 35mm Infra-Red B/W shots, one right after the other, of the stairway there. I’m quite a keen photographer. When the film was developed there was a blur of ‘something’ coming from the middle of the stairs towards me and then bending to the right, at the point approximately where I was stood. To the right of me was an open doorway. Was this something coming down the stairs towards me and evading me by going out the door? The next shot in the sequence was fine by the way…I have been lucky enough to do this location a number of times, each one had a strange incident or two.
Q: What is your view on using psychics on investigations? We are aware you have worked with the Psychic Bad Boy Ian Lawman, how do you rate his ‘gift’ and how was it working professionally with him?
A: This is always a difficult question to answer as far as rating someone’s psychic ability / awareness is concerned. I don’t discount anyone’s claims of psychic powers as there is not one person of a medical / scientific standing that can categorically say 100% that these abilities are not possible within the human makeup. I think Ian is very talented and I always found it immense fun working with him.
Q: Is there anyone in the paranormal field today that you would like to work with on an investigation and why?
A: I have always admired Peter Underwood. He has done so many investigations one could learn a lot from him. It would be interesting to attend an investigation with Peter. My ultimate would have been Harry Price, whose book’s I remember reading when young…especially concerning Borley Rectory.
Q: This year is obviously going to be exciting for you with the launch of your book Phil Whyman’s Dead Haunted: Paranormal Encounters and Investigations in April 2007. Can you tell us about it, how it differs from other paranormal books and how it came about? I know from seeing the proof last year it’s taken a lot of work and unlike other current paranormal books it’s not ‘ghost’ written if you will excuse the pun.
A: Lol…pun excused! Dead Haunted the book came about in 2005 when I was looking in my then local bookstore in the paranormal section. I was looking at my good friend Richard Jones’ books and thought I might give it a go. I spoke to him over the next few days and decided to see how it went with writing the first few chapters. The book contains everything a person would need to know about hauntings and ghosts, as well as theories and possible explanations for activity. Also included are real paranormal incidents as provided by members of the general public, and my very own investigation accounts from some of the locations I have visited. It’s available in hardback and paperback and is out in April…in all good bookstores, as the saying goes!
Q: So what does 2007 hold for you, what’s your next project art, music or paranormal? (We will not accept no comment!)
A: I am currently working on two fiction books (closely guarded secret!) and I am also hoping to get another album done of my music, it’s been a while!
As for other stuff, especially TV, we will have to wait and see what’s in store.
Overview Of Phil Whyman
Phil Whyman is the former paranormal expert / presenter of Living TV’s much acclaimed flagship television series, ‘Most Haunted’.
His knowledge and views on all things paranormal have been called upon on numerous occasions for radio, television and newspaper articles and his fresh and rational approach to the subject has seen Phil become a respected figure in this genre.
In July 2002 he was chosen as one of the main on-screen cast members from 1500 applicants to investigate reports of occultism, ghosts and hauntings for Living TV’s successful 10 episode series ‘Scream Team’. Phil’s appearance on the show brought him to the attention of Antix Productions, the production team behind Living TV’s phenomenally successful ghost investigation show ‘Most Haunted’.
Here Phil Whyman became the resident paranormal expert / presenter working alongside Yvette Fielding and Derek Acorah for 3 series (30 episodes). He also adopted the same role for 7 ‘Most Haunted-LIVE’ events, each of which amassed viewing figures averaging almost 1 million.
Phil is also a keen musician and used to play keyboards in a band called PESKY. He has his own CD, 'Within the Matrix', which is for sale via his website.
Phil is now working freelance while running Dead Haunted Nights, where he takes the public out on overnight paranormal investigations sharing the knowledge he has amassed over the last 12 years as a paranormal investigator.
Phil Whyman Interview by Paul & Mandy of Paranormal United
Q: Hi Phil, happy new year and thank you for the chance to talk with you today. Firstly congratulations on the success of Dead Haunted Nights, can we ask what’s it like going out with the public to such renowned sites as Galleries Of Justice and Woodchester Mansion in comparison to with a full TV crew and renown psychic?
A: Hi all, and Happy New year to you too! In some respects going to locations with the general public is actually easier than with a film crew. Filming a TV show is much more constructed and tighter with the way things are run and you are always having to think about what you are saying and doing as if you get it wrong it can be very time consuming. Whereas with the public you can relax more, have a laugh (vital if someone is frightened about doing an investigation to chill them out a little) and not worry about fluffing what you say. I find it fascinating seeing how people cope with being in such places as those that you mention…lol.
Q: How did Dead Haunted Nights come about and how did you meet Chris, Nick and Vince, and how do they find working with you and your zany sense of humour?
A: Lol…Dead Haunted Nights came about in 2004 when I was chatting to Ian Lawman concerning working together on projects. There were a couple of groups already doing overnight events and we just thought ‘we can do that…’, so we did. Of course people had the added bonus of asking either myself or Ian about our TV experiences. I met Nick and Chris in June / July 2004. Nick works in one of the stores in Lincoln city centre and I met him when I went into where he works, and from there I met Chris who is a friend of his. Chris does the DHN website updating etc. Vince actually came on a location with us as a paying member of the public, where I got to know him and eventually asked him to become a DHN team leader. He’s a member of Swadlincote Paranormal Investigation group too. I must admit they are all great and without them DHN would have struggled…cheers guys! As for my sense of humour…we’re all similar in that dept, so they cope fine!
Q: Which places are you looking forward to investigating with them this year?
A: I’m looking forward to doing Margam Castle in Wales as well as the Coalhouse Fort (Essex). We’re really lucky this year as we have some great new venues coming up which I can’t wait for. We’ve also got Darlington Civic Theatre (Darlington) and Valentines Mansion (London) as well as old favourites the Galleries of Justice (Nottingham) and The Red Lion (Avebury). Should be interesting!
Q: Do you feel that the highlighted interest in the paranormal due to programmes such as Most Haunted and Dead Famous has been positive or detrimental to professional paranormal investigation and why ?
A: I think it has done no harm at all. After all, the paranormal subject was something that people did not really understand and a few people even looked on it and frowned. However, that has all changed and in no small part to the screening of such programs as MH and DF. It is always hard to get the mix right in a TV show – some will love it, others hate it – but it does not stop paranormal investigators getting out there and doing what they enjoy!
Q: Do you miss the limelight of television and do you have any plans to return to our screens? We know you did a pilot of your own programme called Spirit Seekers, what progress is there with it?
A: I do miss it…who wouldn’t. But the general public have been very kind to me and sometimes it still amazes me at their generosity, it’s like I’m still on the box every week and people are constantly stopping me for a chat! ‘Spirit Seekers’ has gone to the great graveyard in the sky reserved to pilot shows…lol. Looking back at it I did enjoy doing it, but I would have done things differently (I even asked if I could help direct / produce the pilot using the knowledge gained from MH, but was turned down!).
Q: Of all the sites you have investigated over your career we must ask what’s the most memorable experience and why?
A: Crikey…erm…tough question! This tends to change each time I am asked this as I usually remember another incident, lol. I have had a couple of strange experiences at Peterborough Museum, very recently too. The first was when I was in one of the rooms and I was sat talking to one of the guests on an event DHN held there. As I turned to face the chap in question I saw a bare arm, bent at the elbow, right in front of my face! I don’t normally mention an experience if I am not certain I witnessed it, but this I swear was there. The other was in the cellar at the museum. A group of us were sat in there when something quite heavy was thrown onto the materials in front of us…made us jump I can tell you! Brannigans nightclub with MH was one location I will always remember, very spooky and only the second one I ever did with them!
Q: Reading many investigation reports there are always references to orbs and light anomalies, what’s your professional view towards them? Are they all purely reflections of light on dust? If not how do you distinguish between the two?
A: I’m not an orb fan myself well, not of 90% of them at least. I think there are far more down to Earth explanations for these anomalies like dust or other airborne particle. However, I have seen some on TV programs that are very intriguing. These are normally larger than the usual little things seen frequently on cameras, and tend to zip about and change direction at pace before vanishing. I haven’t seen many though in all honesty. But, I’m not here to persuade you one way or the other, so please come to your own conclusions (as with all paranormal incidents).
Q: What have you ever caught on camera or film yourself that is beyond rational and scientific explanation?
A: I was at a famously haunted location in Goosnargh (Lancashire), and I took two 35mm Infra-Red B/W shots, one right after the other, of the stairway there. I’m quite a keen photographer. When the film was developed there was a blur of ‘something’ coming from the middle of the stairs towards me and then bending to the right, at the point approximately where I was stood. To the right of me was an open doorway. Was this something coming down the stairs towards me and evading me by going out the door? The next shot in the sequence was fine by the way…I have been lucky enough to do this location a number of times, each one had a strange incident or two.
Q: What is your view on using psychics on investigations? We are aware you have worked with the Psychic Bad Boy Ian Lawman, how do you rate his ‘gift’ and how was it working professionally with him?
A: This is always a difficult question to answer as far as rating someone’s psychic ability / awareness is concerned. I don’t discount anyone’s claims of psychic powers as there is not one person of a medical / scientific standing that can categorically say 100% that these abilities are not possible within the human makeup. I think Ian is very talented and I always found it immense fun working with him.
Q: Is there anyone in the paranormal field today that you would like to work with on an investigation and why?
A: I have always admired Peter Underwood. He has done so many investigations one could learn a lot from him. It would be interesting to attend an investigation with Peter. My ultimate would have been Harry Price, whose book’s I remember reading when young…especially concerning Borley Rectory.
Q: This year is obviously going to be exciting for you with the launch of your book Phil Whyman’s Dead Haunted: Paranormal Encounters and Investigations in April 2007. Can you tell us about it, how it differs from other paranormal books and how it came about? I know from seeing the proof last year it’s taken a lot of work and unlike other current paranormal books it’s not ‘ghost’ written if you will excuse the pun.
A: Lol…pun excused! Dead Haunted the book came about in 2005 when I was looking in my then local bookstore in the paranormal section. I was looking at my good friend Richard Jones’ books and thought I might give it a go. I spoke to him over the next few days and decided to see how it went with writing the first few chapters. The book contains everything a person would need to know about hauntings and ghosts, as well as theories and possible explanations for activity. Also included are real paranormal incidents as provided by members of the general public, and my very own investigation accounts from some of the locations I have visited. It’s available in hardback and paperback and is out in April…in all good bookstores, as the saying goes!
Q: So what does 2007 hold for you, what’s your next project art, music or paranormal? (We will not accept no comment!)
A: I am currently working on two fiction books (closely guarded secret!) and I am also hoping to get another album done of my music, it’s been a while!
As for other stuff, especially TV, we will have to wait and see what’s in store.
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