See you in court warn hypnotists

Chorley Borough Council has banned stage hypnotists from performing throughout the borough because of health fears.

In September 1993, mother of two Sharron Tabarn, aged 24, of Clayton Brook, died after being hypnotised at a show in a Leyland pub.

Although an inquest said Sharron died of "natural causes," her mother Mrs Margaret Harper is convinced it was due to her being hypnotised and has campaigned to have shows outlawed.

Chorley councillor Ralph Snape supported the campaign and demanded more information on stage hypnotism.

But the Federation of Ethical Stage Hypnotists has written to the council's legal department warning it could challenge its decision in court.

Federation administrator John Birchall appealed in his letter for Chorley to reconsider its ban.

He wrote: "By allowing stage hypnosis shows, your council would allow people to exercise their rights to enjoy their chosen form of entertainment."

And he added: "If your council is unable to change its policy, there is a right under The Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982 to challenge any refusal to grant a licence in a Magistrates Court."

Mr Birchall explained that a federation member had just won a court appeal against a council, allowing him to perform in that area.

Ian Curtis, of Chorley Borough Council's legal department, said: "I don't see it in the nature of a threat. I have spoken to John Birchall and he feels the council should have a different policy than it has. You would expect him to have that view in his position.

"The committee are fully aware there's right of appeal to the magistrate's court, so that won't be anything new to them."

Mr Curtis said he believed safety was paramount in councillors' minds when the decision was taken.

The council was due to discuss the matter on Tuesday night.

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