A BOOK exploring the rich heritage of Welsh folklore is to be published by Oakmagic Publications, a publisher specialising in reprints of folklore books, on June 20.

'Witches and Wizards of West and Mid Wales' was first published by the author, Jonathan Ceredig Davies in 1911. It is a remarkable and unique collection of folk traditions, myths, and witchcraft stories, all published by one of the leading Welsh folklorists just prior to the First War.

Written by a man who was the pioneer of the Anglican Church in Patagonia and who returned to Wales in1901, the book is a fascinating record of the beliefs, tales and superstitions of the Welsh people.

Much of the information about the characters of 19th century rural Welsh life who practised witchcraft was collected first hand by the author who travelled widely in the three counties of Pembrkeshire, Cardiganshire and Carmarthenshire, and whose fluent Welsh enabled him to write with great authenticity about the old men and women who lived in very remote rural areas.

The book contains information about extraordinary characters like Dafydd Llwyd who was a medieval clergyman before he was dismissed by the Bishop of Cardiganshire for practising the Black Art.

The book also described the famous cunning man Dr. Harries who was renowned in his day for removing spells from persons who thought themselves 'bewitched'. Harries was so well-known that people travelled from as far away as Hereford to be healed of their illnesses.

Charms and cures for warts and other complaints are also covered in the book, as are dreams, healing stones, premonitions and legends about Merlin. The volume is certain to fascinate anyone with an interest in Welsh history and folklore.

'Witches and Wizards of West and Mid Wales' is available direct from publishers, Oakmagic, by sending a cheque made out to 'D. Jones' for £4.50 (postage is free) to Oakmagic, 2 Steilhead Cottages, Auldgirth, Dumfries. Alternatively, it can be ordered direct from their website at http://www.oakmagicpublications.com">www.oakmagicpublications.com or by telephone enquiry on 07714 110460.