Ghost sightings spook hospital workers

DERBY, England, Jan. 30 (UPI) -- Officials at an English hospital said ghost sightings at the facility are being investigated and sources say the hospital may be consulting with an exorcist.

Employees at the Derby Royal Hospital said a black-clad figure has been sighted prowling through the hospital and disappearing into walls, The Times of London reported Friday.

Sources at the hospital said senior manager Debbie Butler wrote an e-mail to staff members discussing the sightings.

"I'm not sure how many of you are aware that some members of staff have reported seeing a ghost," the sources quoted the e-mail as reading. "I'm taking it seriously as the last thing I want is staff feeling uneasy at work."

"I don't want to scare anyone more than necessary, but felt it was best I made you all aware of the situation and what we are doing about it," Butler reportedly wrote.

Hospital officials said they are not planning an official exorcism but a spokeswoman for the Bishop of Derby said a diocese paranormal adviser, who has a similar job description as an exorcist, has been in contact with the hospital's on-site chaplain about the ghost sightings.

"The sightings will be investigated and appropriate action taken," the spokeswoman said.