New national naturist organisation launches in January

Recent events at the Central Council for British Naturism, including the acrimonious AGM in October, have served to increase the number and volume of the ever-present rumblings on the need for a new organisation.

It was back in 1994 that a group of disgruntled BN members formed the United Kingdom Naturist Association. The declared aim of “uniting individual naturists into a friendly and democratic organisation that would actively promote naturism in the UK” received a great deal of support, but the UKNA quietly disappeared a few years later. Since then a number of ad hoc groups have formed to fill the gaps left by BN’s lack of a coherent campaign strategy. Notable amongst these have been the Rec 54 group on the Sexual Offences Bill, and various beach users groups such as the ones at Studland and Eastney. Most have had limited success in co-operating effectively with the national organisation. Furthermore, many feel that the movement is being pushed backwards by recent pressures on naturism at a number of locations, and that BN’s record on the SOB bodes ill for opposition to any new bye-laws arising from proposed local government legislation. A new national organisation due to be launched in January says it will address these problems.

Naturists UK is committed to actively promoting responsible naturist activity - including rambling and cycling - on all beaches, parks, and open countryside, as well as opposing restrictions on naturist freedoms. It will be a company limited by guarantee with a constitution based on the best practice model produced by the new Community Interest Companies Regulator. The organisation intends to be totally transparent in its dealings, and will be predominantly web based, and run by the membership.

Individual members will be able to vote online on all business and motions, not just at the AGM, but throughout the year. Accounts will be published and updated live on the web site. Comprehensive online facilities will enable members to promote beaches, clubs, swims, and other events, and publish their own visit reports and comments, and rate facilities. When difficulties arise, such as those experienced at Ainsdale, Fraisthorpe and Perran, members will be able to raise awareness and set up a beach users group in minutes.

A comprehensive database of MPs, local officials, and police contacts will facilitate lobbying and dealing with problems, and keep members informed of developments. In the event that any members find themselves in difficulty whilst enjoying their lawful freedoms they will be given practical advice and assistance, and put in touch with lawyers specialising in the field. A pre-existing network of media contacts will ensure that the progressive naturist message is promoted at every opportunity.

The new organisation has substantial backing from some well-known names in the naturist movement. Spokesman Richard Collins says: “We hope to be attracting the many thousands who have been waiting to join a national, representative, and campaigning organisation with the professionalism and passion to finally drive forward the cause of naturism in the UK.”

Further details from http://naturists-uk.org or call Richard Collins on 01954 212502. 

Bob Janes