A retired university professor is appealing for people to share any stories about ghosts or phantom hitchhikers at or near the Fog Bell in Marshside in Southport.
Dr Rob Gandy said: “I would like to ask readers of Stand Up For Southport website if any local people have witnessed any uncanny phenomena relating to the Marshside Fog Bell; or know someone who has?
“I am a retired Visiting Professor at Liverpool John Moores University, and I have long researched road ghosts and similar across Halsall Moss. I have had related articles published in the magazine Fortean Times and The Ghost Club Journal.
“I also delivered a presentation about phantom hitchhikers and road ghosts to raise money for Queenscourt Hospice several years ago.
“I know the tragic story about the Fog Bell and how it was constructed in the wake of seven shrimpers losing their lives in 1869. However, I have testimonies relating to people who have seen strange things on the road from the Fog Bell down to the marshes on particularly foggy nights.
“I am also told that the Fog Bell was still heard to ring on some foggy nights, despite the building being derelict. Obviously, I am talking about before its refurbishment.
“I am deliberately not describing what I have been told so as not to influence any potential respondents. Maybe it is folklore or maybe something genuinely weird took place.
“I welcome any stories and queries that anyone might be able to offer. All approaches will be treated in absolute confidence.
“I can be contacted by email: [email protected]
“I look forward to hearing from people.”
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