ACCRINGTON DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB
KATHLEEN (of the little silver bell) ably deputised for Tony this week.
Marlene’s reassuring news is that, mobility problems apart, she is well.
This week’s group was smaller than usual and those who were unable to attend missed a real cracker.
Peter Watson’s enthusiasm for the history and practice of Real or Natural Magic in Lancashire is almost legendary and his delivery is pitch perfect.
He is able to create a mental image of what our region was like to live in some four or five hundred years ago, essential if you are going to understand how simple rituals influenced practical sons and daughters of soil and loom.
A small bag of amulets and charms were used to illustrate his lecture on low or folk magic, which he was at pains to distance from the sleight of hand and trickery of stage magic.
Peter assumed the role of the cunning man, he who knows things, to whom you would go to for help with everything from toothache to problems with a rival for your man’s affections.
His lady would, of course, be a witch, a wise woman or a hag of the hedgerow.
We learned how three honesty seed pods, in a small red bag, would cure lunacy, to avoid any embarrassing disrobing at the full moon.
It was sobering to learn that fairies were not pretty little Christmas tree decorations but, with elves, imps, goblins and the like, were bent on inflicting misery on humankind.
Moreover, Lancashire fairies were by far the worst but another small red bag with a tuft of fur from a black cat’s tail was usually enough to ward them off.
No feline was harmed for this demonstration.
We also learned the word apotropaic, for an item that wards off evil in almost any form.
Unfortunately, nothing was suggested to curtail the unending misery of Brexit debate.
Carolyn eloquently expressed our thanks to Peter for a thoroughly enjoyable session.
There are now vacancies for new members.
Anyone who would like to join the fun should contact Tony Joy on 01254 264359.