Legendary Essex Note:
The Lantern Man is a will-o’-the-wisp figure from Fenland folklore – a malevolent spirit that uses their lights to deceive and mislead travellers into treacherous bogs and waterways. They are particularly attracted to the sound of whistling, which is why it’s advised to avoid whistling in the Fenlands at night. The primary defense against the Lantern Man is to lie face down in the mud, essentially burying oneself to avoid detection or becoming lured into trouble by the light.
