Northumberland medium James Leighton is set to launch his autobiography at a sold-out event at Chillingham Castle on November 3. Leighton, who describes himself as an evidential medium, has built a growing national reputation and regularly sells out shows across the UK and Ireland.
Childhood in Hexham
Leighton's journey into mediumship began during his childhood in Hexham, where he says he never considered it unusual to talk to the 'children' he encountered in the graveyard at Hexham Abbey. He recalls these early experiences as the beginning of a path he could never have imagined.
“When I was growing up in Hexham, I honestly didn't think there was anything unusual about talking to the children in the Abbey graveyard. It was just something that happened and was part of my life. Looking back now, I realise those early experiences were probably the beginning of a journey that I could never have imagined,” Leighton said.
Evidential Approach
Leighton, known as the 'Extra Large Medium', has come a long way from giving demonstrations in small pubs and clubs across the North East. He now tours extensively throughout the UK and Ireland, building a loyal following.
“I'm very proud of being an evidential medium. For me, it's about giving people something they can recognise. I don't make things fit afterwards. If I'm giving someone a date, a description, a phrase or a particular piece of information, it has to mean something to them,” he added.
Leighton says his approach is to provide specific evidence, including dates, descriptions, names, circumstances, and even phrases that may hold particular significance to a person's loved ones.
Book Launch at Chillingham Castle
One experience Leighton recounts came during a visit to the Williams II, the vessel of charity Blyth Tall Ship. His apparent knowledge of the vessel and details about people who had once sailed aboard her impressed the charity's CEO.
“The journey from those early days to touring around the UK and Ireland and selling out shows has been incredible, and writing the autobiography has allowed me to look back at everything that has happened. Launching it at Chillingham Castle seems pretty appropriate,” Leighton said.
The autobiography explores the experiences, people, and events that have shaped him throughout his life and the development of his mediumship. The sold-out book launch is scheduled for November 3 at Chillingham Castle.
