Naturism is something else

I would like to point out that, based on the descriptions given, these are not naturists and as such we would support the police taking action against these people.

Littlehampton's West Beach is not listed by us (British Naturism) as a naturist beach, but I should point out that nudity is not illegal on any beach or, indeed, anywhere, provided it is not done to deliberately shock or offend.

Nudity is not, in itself, indecent, Pope John Paul II agreed with that; but to make a point of displaying oneself to passers-by could be taken as an intention to shock or offend.

Sexual activity of any kind is illegal.

I understand that there have been past attempts by the council to ban nudity on this beach by the erection of signs.

This is not best practice.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs lists British Naturism as an organisation who should be consulted regarding management of our coastline and we would willingly help any council with advice based on experience elsewhere.

For instance, we have a very good relationship with the Dorset Police who cover Studland naturist beach near Swanage and between them, the landowners (National Trust) and ourselves we have managed to all but eradicate such activities in the dunes behind that beach.

We would like to see this model adopted anywhere that such problems occur.

This kind of activity is as unwelcome by a naturist beach as it is anywhere else.

Dorset Police have indicated their willingness to pass on the benefit of their experience to other police authorities, councils, etc.

All it requires is for those authorities to be willing to listen, instead of simply putting up notices banning nudity, which clearly do not work and are in themselves of questionable legality.

Brian Taylor

public relations officer for British Naturism

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