My guest for this episode is historian and author Thomas Waters, who joined me to talk about his 2019 book Cursed Britain: A History of Witchcraft and Black Magic in Modern Times.

In the book Thomas explores the enduring nature of magic and witchcraft in the British Isles from 1800 up to the present day, how its popularity waxed and waned over those years and the societal factors that played a part in those fortunes. It also offers a fascinating insight into the lives of some of the people who engaged in these secretive practices, as well as those affected by them – people who transcended class divides, and lived all across the land, from large cities to remote islands.

As soon as I found out about Thomas and his book last year, I knew I had to try and get him on the podcast, so it was great to make that happen. 

If you would like a copy of the book for your bookshelf, it can be obtained via Yale University Press and at all good book shops.

Thomas also often discusses witchcraft on his Twitter page (@DrThomasWaters) and is a regular contributor to Folklore Thursday. 

The Some Other Sphere theme is from Purple Planet Music.

‘Hubbub’ by Chris Martyn/Geoff Harvey