The original ghost walk of york:
interview with mark graham
The Lost Tapes, the Treasurers House Roman Legionnaires and his appearance on ‘UNCANNY,’ with Danny Robins.
Q. So you appeared on Episode 2 of ‘Uncanny’ (February 7th BBC2), that’s quite a coup, how come you didn’t let us know beforehand?
A. It was actually filmed last October but we were sworn to secrecy to maintain the integrity of the show.
Q. What was it like meeting Danny and the crew?
A. Danny made me welcome from the start. He was fascinating to speak to and very respectful of what I had to say. Great fun!
Q. York is renowned as one of the most haunted cities and this is reflected in its many ghostly tours and attractions so why do you think Uncanny selected The Original Ghost Walk?
A. The show wanted to feature the ghosts of the Roman soldiers as seen at the Treasurer’s House by Harry Martindale. Harry worked with us for many years and took me on my first ever ghost walk, over forty years ago. I still try to tell the story as he told it to me.
Q. Harry’s story is explored on the show but what is this new evidence that was disclosed, referred to as ‘The Lost Tapes’?
A. The discovery of the tapes is a story in itself and deserves its own show. Over fifty years ago, teacher and author John Mitchell recorded interviews with York residents who had ghostly experiences.
The tapes revealed that not only Harry had seen the Roman soldiers but caretaker of the Treasurers House, Joan Mawson and step-daughter were further witnesses.
The stories recorded by John Mitchell and Peter Broadhead helped create our Ghost Walk, as the unique, first in the world, experience, it is today.
We thought the tapes were lost but were discovered and gifted to The Original Ghost Walk of York. Thanks goes to Ziggy and Miles who recognised the value of this astonishing treasure trove and rescued the tapes from a dusty attic.
Q. Are there any other revelations from the tapes?
A. We are still painstakingly listening to the tapes and giving them the attention they deserve. There is much more to come!
Q. What’s the best way for people to find out more about the stories?
A. Joan Mawson’s evidence is discussed on the show (BBC iPlayer) and we will keep posting and telling new evidence, on our nightly Ghost Walk, 8pm, every night, from ‘The Kings Arms’ pub.
