Sybil Leek, a name synonymous with witchcraft in the mid-20th century, carved a unique niche for herself in the world of the occult. Her flamboyant style, coupled with her deep knowledge of astrology and esoteric practices, made her a captivating figure.

Leek's connection to Burley, a quaint New Forest village, was profound. During her residence there in the late 1950s, her presence was a constant source of intrigue and curiosity. Her signature attire—a flowing black cloak adorned with intricate symbols—and her faithful jackdaw companion, often perched on her shoulder, made her an unforgettable sight.

Born in 1923, Leek's early life was steeped in occult lore.

Her grandmother, a large influence, introduced her to the intricacies of astrology at a young age.

Leek's education was primarily home-based, and she had the privilege of listening to conversations between her parents and notable figures like Aleister Crowley and H.G. Wells.

This exposure to diverse occult philosophies laid the foundation for her later explorations.

When witchcraft laws were repealed in 1951, Leek emerged as a prominent white witch.

Her charismatic personality and expertise in astrology quickly drew the attention of the media. She became a sought-after commentator on radio and television, offering her insights on various occult topics.

With the locals upset by her presence, Sybil moved to America where she continued studying and writing about the occult and astrology.

Leek's connection to Burley has left a lasting legacy. The village has become a popular destination for those interested in witchcraft and the occult.

One of its most notable establishments, "A Coven of Witches," was named by Leek herself and features a portrait of her hanging above the Jacobean fireplace.

Despite her unconventional lifestyle and appearance, Sybil Leek was a highly intelligent and articulate woman.

She authored more than 60 books, including an autobiography, sharing her knowledge and experiences with the world. Her contributions to the field of witchcraft have solidified her place as a pioneering figure in the occult movement.

Despite her public persona and involvement in the Horsa coven, Leek did not endorse dark magic.

Her approach to witchcraft was rooted in the "old religion," emphasizing balance and harmony rather than harmful practices.

She emphasised meditation, listening, and patience, distinguishing her from those who practised black magic.

Leek's healing abilities drew people from around the world to Burley, seeking her help and gratitude long after her passing.

Her intelligence, evidenced by her IQ of 164, was reflected in her writings, which focused on the interconnectedness of people and the world.

Her philosophical views aligned with Stoicism, and she was a pioneer in ecological issues.

“My religion, witchcraft, is not a dramatic thing,” she once said.

“It’s meditation instead of prayer. It’s listening instead of talking. It’s waiting for someone to say something to you. It’s quiet, natural and easy.

“I am a good witch. Certainly I studied black magic which is vicious and vile, but I have no desire to conjure harm. I have no capability for harm.”

Such was her healing ability, Sybil had people coming to Burley from all over the world – and long after her death – looking for her to thank her for her cures.

Her intelligence was mirrored in her IQ of 164, and her books are less about witchcraft than her views of the world and how people fit into it. Her thinking mirrored the philosophical movement Stoicism, and she was out in front for her time in ecological issues.

Or as Sybil herself writes in her book Diary of a Witch: “I am a witch. This is a statement of fact which in this second half of the sophisticated twentieth century still seems to generate mixed emotions throughout the world.

“I have been called ‘the most evil woman in the world.’

“But evil, like beauty, is often in the mind and the eye of the beholder. Yet many people see me as something of a fairy godmother, a woman who has a secret remedy for all aches and pains of body and spirit as well as for complex emotional problems.

“I have been called ‘a legend’, which seems a rather delightful thing to be.”