Naturists UK - a new beginning...

It's at this time of year people start to make plans for the year ahead and book their summer holidays. And for some, a time to look forward to another year of ‘pushing the boundaries' and encouraging others to enjoy the freedom we have in this country.

In previous years I've written about change through BN, and been much encouraged by the support of Naturist Life readers. Sadly the pro-change advocacy fell on many deaf ears, and few were inspired enough to free themselves of the shackles of apathy and vote, but things are beginning to change and people are voting with their feet.

If you're not on the internet, and don't read H&E, you may not have heard that a new organisation Naturists UK, launched in January, has already attracted many Naturist Life readers to join - even some who have never wanted to join BN. Naturists UK appeals as a new organisation for the 21^st century representing its members - not ignoring them - championing our freedoms, and organising the kind of events and activities that people - Naturist Life readers - want to enjoy. Not costly exclusive events, but fun affordable activities for all the family: garden visits, country walks, beach BBQs and the odd cycle ride - like the World Naked Bike Ride which in just three years has become the most successful annual event in the naturist calendar.

OK, cycling naked around London is not everybody's idea of a relaxing naturist excursion, but it's a whole lotta fun and after experiencing it and the support of the public, you'll never feel self-conscious about being the only one nude on a quiet stretch of beach, and worrying what people might think if they see you. You'll know first-hand what we've all being saying for many years - most people don't have a problem with simple nudity and only wish they had our confidence.

So why do we need a new organisation? What will it achieve? The WNBR shows what a few determined individuals working collectively can do. But there are many more enjoyable things we can do, and that is emphasised by the hugely successful clothing-optional days at Abbey House Gardens and the popular Cinema in the Buff. We need more venues to enjoy - all around the UK - and that requires a dedicated group of people working through an effective organisation to talk to owners and managers and to convey to them that the demand exists and that we are a force to be reckoned with - a market that shouldn't be overlooked. The Buff £ as some call it.

Naturists UK will be contacting as many of the country house, garden, and land owners, theme parks, zoos, nature conservancy bodies... as it can, to explore the opportunities that exist but need to be unleashed. This costs money and needs a coordinated transparent approach so that you the supporter know what we're saying and to whom. With your support we will build up a database of contacts and write to them all and keep you informed of progress. If you have access to the internet, you can add to the database information about places of interest near to you, or if not, simply write to us or phone. We are listening and know many of our supporters are not on the internet; we are therefore offering the option of a regular newsletter and intend to keep people informed through the naturist press.

In return for your support, we will offer member discounts on admission to our events (where a charge has to be made) and work with our associates to promote their facilities in return for similar discounts to our members that they give their own, thus creating more demand and encouraging more to join Naturists UK - a win win situation to promote clubs and attract potential new members. This can only be possible with your support. The technology is now available to us to reach more people for little cost through the world wide web, while not ignoring those who aren't on the web. But how many of you reading this have sons or daughters, now grown up with their own families, who are on the web every day and could keep you informed when something new is announced and, who knows, maybe attract them to join in too! Too many children grow up and abandon naturism as it's seen as something only ‘old wrinklies' do in ‘secret places' no one goes to, while on the Continent it is normal to see three or even four generations of the same family enjoying a nude beach, villa or resort as nature intended. Again the WNBR and Tunick photoshoots shows the potential to attract many more younger people of both sexes.

The British aren't prudes. It's just that we're rather reserved and don't want to be seen to be the first to take the plunge. We need to build on the success of those willing to push the boundaries and break free from the encampments and enjoy more of the real world. You can join us as easily as picking up the phone. Ring 01954 212502 any day 9am-9pm and find out what Naturists UK is all about. So far we've had a 100% success rate with every caller enquiring, joining there and then. This could be the best call you'll make this year! Or have a look at our website http://naturists-uk.org We think you'll like what you see and you can join online or get your son or daughter to do it for you! Have a great and active 2007!

Richard Collins