As one might expect, most paranormal and supernatural encounters occur in the hours of darkness.

What is it about the night that seems to manifest these occurrences? Is it our own feelings of vulnerability and

isolation or is it something more profound? This week we hear accounts from those who work

through the night on the dreaded night shift. So, So, The night shift is a polarizing proposition for many workers.

Some actively seek it out, enjoying the relative peace and quiet of the midnight hours.

Others try to avoid it at all costs, only partaking out of necessity or because they have no other choice.

Luckily for the latter, the requirement to work overnight duties has lessened somewhat

in the last few decades due to the introduction of the more salubrious twilight shift or the implementation of automated solutions.

But even in circumstances where a human element is still deemed necessary,

those performing such roles are often supported by digital communications, CCTV and GPS technology, which assist them with their duties. And yet, for the people who undertake these tear-not 12-hour shifts whilst the rest of us are sleeping,

with only themselves or a limited number of colleagues for company.

Such periods of time often proved difficult to endure.

Even with the aid of stimulants such as caffeine, medication, and electronic devices, all the technology in the world cannot suppress emotions such as fear, loneliness, and doubt.

It should come as no surprise that many night workers often find themselves isolated and alone,

and whether through irregular sleep patterns leading to sleep deprivation or something more profound, we often find that these people have at least one strange experience to share.

What follows is a collection of stories from night shift workers who encountered something out of the ordinary.

Built in 1818, Bodmin St Lawrence Hospital was commissioned to accommodate growing numbers of mentally ill residents.

During its tenure, it would become one of the most prominent asylums in the southwest of England,

and its facilities would go on to be expanded a further six times over the decades.

As with many such institutions of its day, its reputation would come to be somewhat marred by accusations of

mistreatment towards patients. Much controversy and lengthy legal battles would

come to define its final years before it was eventually closed in 2002.

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