When out pounding the beat for a spell, a policeman never knows when he might bump into a witch. So it’s best to be prepared – with a 300-page guide which includes instructions on how to deal with members of the pagan community. The Metropolitan Police has produced a diversity handbook offering officers a range of dos and don’ts when it comes to followers of a range of religions and beliefs, from atheism to Zoroastrianism, druidry and shamanism. They are advised to avoid touching a witch’s Book of Shadows, or spellbook, and handling the ceremonial dagger known as an athame. Police are also advised not necessarily to panic if they encounter a person in the nude with hands tied together. The guide states: ‘Some ceremonies include a blindfolded, naked participant, whose hands may be bound. ‘This is in accordance with ritual and has the full consent of the participant.’ On witchcraft, officers are told: ‘Witches have a Book of Shadows, which contains a handwritten record or diary of their personal progress as a witch. Often the books have ornate covers, some have the title Book of Shadows on the cover, some don’t. Any book can be used, but this book is regarded as private and special and should not be touched by anyone but the author. If it is possible to avoid touching this book then it is best to do so. When entering a witch’s home do not touch an athame without the owner’s permission.’ The manual warns officers they may particularly encounter worshippers armed with ceremonial daggers on April 30 and May 1 during Beltane, a fire festival which sees pagan and wicca worshippers celebrate the sun god. (Daily Mail)
