Lunacy, the legendary notion of minds unhinged by the moon, still captivates the popular imagination.

 Although it violates the assumptions of modern science and psychiatry, the belief remains common among mental health workers – and several studies have found a small, unexplained correlation between behaviour and the lunar cycle. Dr Niall McCrae, lecturer in mental health at King’s College, London, presents an historical account of the lunacy concept and discusses research issues.

They start every meeting with their Fortmanteu, a monthly round up of fortean news stories on the last Thursday of each month.