Patricia Crowther: UK's oldest witch who starred on radio dies aged 97

Patricia Crowther, known as the UK's oldest witch who introduced witchcraft to a wider audience, has died aged 97.

Wiccan pagan Crowther was a "high priestess" who shared her knowledge of the occult practice with radio listeners during the 1970s. She championed witchcraft in the A Spell of Witchcraft, a BBC Radio Sheffield series that helped expose people to its modern practices.

Secrets of its modern practices within the community were shared during the programme, which also explored the history of witchcraft. Before becoming an occultist, Crowther was a professional entertainer Crowther told the Guardian in the 90s her husband had been involved in a "operation cone of power" ritual to prevent Britain from being invaded.

• Güllü dead: Singer tragically dies after falling from sixth floor balcony
• Menzies 'Ming' Campbell dead: Tributes paid to Ex-Liberal Democrat leader

She said: "Hitler was expected on our shores at any time. They did not throw white powder but worked in the New Forest, chanting: ‘You cannot cross the sea / Not able to come,’ repeated over and over and raising the power through the dance.

"Historians say there were only two things that stopped Hitler coming: one was the Battle of Britain and the other was that he changed his mind. He said: ‘We’ll go and invade Russia instead’ – or words to that effect." Crowther's death was reported by the pagan news publisher Wild Hunt.

The outlet said: "As high priestess, author, and teacher, Patricia Crowther leaves a profound legacy. It added: "Her work ensured that witchcraft remained vibrant, accessible, and present in modern times.

"Her memory will be a blessing to all who have been touched by her work in Wicca, and her spirit continues to live on in the covens and communities she inspired.”

This is a breaking news story. Follow us on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, Twitter, Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.