CITY spookologist Dr David Clarke of Hallam University is one of the talking heads on Channel 5's Britain's Closest Encounters – about UFOs – tomorrow and the next two weeks.

But he'll be taking a sceptical tone. He was gripped by the subject when he saw Spielberg's Close Encounters when he was 12 and has made a career investigating unexplained phenomena.

David, from Walkley, has never seen a flying saucer and suspects he may never do so.

He says: "I remain open-minded about the possibility that some 'UFOs' might have an exotic origin, most probably as UAPs – Unidentified Atmospheric Phenomena. But I would need a lot more evidence."


Ashton's address to campaigner
EX-BASSETLAW MP Joe Ashton is not taken with Heather Brook's campaign to publish MPs' addresses.

He says: "For over 30 years I had a string of second homes in London. I was burgled at least seven times, not counting another four at my main home."

Writing in Order, Order!, the newsletter for former MPs, he adds: "The local lads soon get to know where an MP lives.

"While he is away they just kick down the door and have a rave party with booze nicked from the terrified off-licence down the road."

Tell us DNA story
HOW To Be On TV – the Diary's famous feature. Do you have unanswered questions which could be solved by a DNA test?

Lorraine Kelly is hosting a second series of Sky's DNA Stories which gives free tests to people in their own homes.

Call the production team on 0871 8275020 or email dnastories@stv.tv


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