I am writing up reports of strange phenomena seen in and around the skies of Britain and came across a report from the early 1950s of a UFO landing at Withdean.

I wonder if any readers have any information on the current whereabouts of Sheila Burton or her immediate family who were living in Withdean during the early 1950s. I would like to obtain further details relating to this amazing incident which took place on September 4 or 5, 1951.

Mrs Burton told of waking at 6.30am and looking through the bedroom window overlooking the rear garden. She saw a large flashing object descend at incredible speed on to the lawn. Three square panels opened followed by the arrival of three "men". They were f5ft or 6ft tall with bald heads, odd expressionless faces, small pointed noses and ears, no lips and deep set eyes. They moved as if they were mindless robots carrying out a pointless duty. They were wearing dark green or khaki one-piece garments and carrying a device that resembled a machine gun. After they returned to the craft, it shot vertically up into the air.

Can any readers help with any information regarding this matter?

They may even have their own strange stories to tell. I can be reached on johndawn1@sky.com.

  • John Hanson, Red Lion Street, Alvechurch