Believe It Or Not? Folklore, Witchcraft and Magical Thinking from the North York Moors, Coast and Cleveland

 This splendidly illustrated collection of stories of the area offers new perspectives and plenty of surprises! The North York Moors and surrounding hills, dales and coast are rich in folklore, legend and magical thinking. Stories passed down and elaborated over generations often hold sprinklings of truth and fascinating glimpses into past lives. They offer insights into the thoughts, rituals and fears of our ancestors.  Content • The Prolonged Persecution of North York Moors ‘Witches’ • ‘Witch posts’, believed to protect from evil • Concealed objects across homes to avert dangers • The ‘Hand of Glory’ – the severed hand of a hanged felon believed to induce sleep – a useful tool for burglars • Stories of magical creatures known as hobs • Dragon lore  • Fairy stories • Legends of beasts, giants or ghosts • Tales of mermaids, sea-men and superstitions along the coast  • The Lyke Wake Walk, inspired by an old Yorkshire dialect song telling of the soul’s passage through the afterlife • Corn dollies, made to promote fertility for the next season, • Wassailing the orchards to ensure a good crop • Whitby’s ceremony of the Penny Hedge • Traditions of sword-dancing, clog dancing and folk music • Newly introduced folklore, such as the Krampus Run • and much more… What readers say: 'An unexpected delight.’ ‘Absolutely jam-packed with contributions from local writers and experts.’ ‘Loads of stuff I didn’t know’ 'A fascinating read & excellently produced!’