Next Monday’s Forum Live features an opportunity to get to know Jon Williams, one of the Directors of British Naturism. Jon has been vice-Chair of British Naturism for some two and a half years, during which time the Executive Committee has benefited from his skill in chairing its regular meetings. The wider membership will have seen him chairing the AGM too. More recently he has masterminded the development of plans to develop British Naturism: Sunfolk and bring it up to the standard we are all hoping for as a premium Naturist venue.
Jon is an active member of the Naturist Ramblers, and arranges regional events for BN members in London and the South East, and Naturist walking weekends in Scotland.
Alongside all these activities Jon somehow manages to hold down a full-time job in the headquarters of a major retailer. He also sings in one of the big BBC choirs and is currently in rehearsal for performances at this summer’s Proms.
Edwin Kilby will be in the chair and you can join the session via the BN shop
British Naturism’s Pétanque tournament on 29 April to 2 May drew 21 teams and was a resounding success, Sports Director Ian Munt reports!
The tournament is a seven-game, all-inclusive snake with the best two teams progressing to the final. There were five games on the Saturday and two on Sunday, followed by the final. This year it was organised by Barrie and Glynn Widdowson and hosted by Blackthorns Sun Club.
Play began under a beautiful sunny sky. Competition was sometimes fraught - with a touch of cussing as the pressure mounted! - because this was serious, and, for some, winning the national title was the only result they wanted. By the time the last two teams finished their fifth game on Saturday, everyone else had returned to the lawn for G&Ts before getting ready for the Gala Dinner.
The final day’s play began on a cold Sunday morning. Some of the competitors looked like they had danced the night away, while others were ready for combat! Despite some brief rain, spirits remained high. Barrie and Glynn had a bye for their second game, giving them time to start totting up the score cards early. They even enlisted me to tot some scores up - no pressure there with them both being retired math teachers!
With the games complete and the score sheets totted up, two teams stood out at the top for the final. Jane and Lee and Marion and Phil would slug it out, with only 13 more points needed to get their hands on the coveted Shield and National Trophy. It was a close game. Marion and Phil played without fault, while Jane and Lee fought a gallant battle!
Then it was off to the trophy ceremony. Trophies were handed out, including three bare bum trophies for those teams who scored a ‘fanny’ - losing 13 to 0. After thank-yous all round, participants were given application forms for the internationals in Hanover, Germany, and the trophy was put on display for all to see whether we can bring it home again!
If you missed this event and fancy a game, check out the landed clubs. Many are open to day visitors and have great facilities, so check the website for clubs in your area. Sunfolk also has a piste.
Think about giving the Nationals a go next year! These events can only take place if there are volunteers to help, and they are a great way to meet people and have a good time. You don’t need experience - just enthusiasm for the sport. If you’re interested, register on the Volunteers platform or contact Ian at sports@bn.org.uk
A big cheer to the winners:
Winners: Marion & Phil
Runners up: Jane & Lee
Third Place: Elaine & Steve
Fourth Place: Carol & Carl
Join me next Monday, 16 May as I present an overview of the process, the marketing techniques, the resources, the trends, and more relating to our continuous drive to bring more Naturists into British Naturism membership - and the services and initiatives we provide to keep everyone renewing for years to come!
Over the last couple of years our numbers have been increasing at a quicker rate but it is important to keep growing for a variety of reasons. Importantly, you'll also learn how you can play a part in ensuring a bright future for the UK's foremost organisation for Naturists.
Join the session via the online events section of the BN shop
Swimmers and supporters piled into a competition swimming pool in Watford on the evening of 7 May for the highly anticipated British Naturism National Swimming Gala, and what an event it was! There were 76 competitors, from young children to seniors. Many have swum competitively but a show of hands suggested that more hadn’t.
A glitch with the pool’s timing equipment meant that the judges monitoring each swim lane had to keep the timing. Here’s Mark Bass:
“The volunteer timekeepers and stewards were fantastic, and [Mark] Walsh's coordination of activities even more so. Because of the number of contests, the gala is a logistical nightmare so could very easily go wrong. The fact that there was not a single blip shows just how good the volunteer team was.”
The crowd was enthusiastic, friendly and encouraging. In fact, there was more clapping for the slower swimmers than for the speedy ones! This was new British Naturism Sports Officer Ian Munt’s first outing and his “seamless integration with other parts of the Events team is a sign of how well sports could fit into the existing program under his leadership,” says Mark.
I took the opportunity to quiz a couple of the swimmers. This was Alex’s first-ever encounter with British Naturism. Asked why he decided to compete, he said he realised he was afraid of the event – and didn’t want to be. That same fear drew him to British Naturism, and he’s keen to try other events in what he called “a respectful experiment.” And a winning one this time—he came away with two silver medals!
Next up was Leann Sykes-Hooban who, with husband Matt, is a veteran of British Naturism and international naturist swim galas. We noted the number of women poolside, and I asked for her thoughts on how to get more women into naturism. It’s about being open with people about the clothes-free life, she said. After returning from one of the international meets, she mentioned to colleagues that she’d won a swimming title at a naturist competition. Several minutes later, they started asking questions. “Talking to people about it is the first thing,” she told me. Most are interested – not horrified – and British Naturism’s Just One Person campaign is an effective way to spread the word.
Congratulations to everyone who took part in the gala! And a special well-done to my partner, Dave, who swam his way to two gold medals!
Every year on the first Saturday in May, gardeners around the world are encouraged to shed their clothes and tend their gardens naked, just as nature intended. It’s for anyone who wants to experience a stronger bond with nature wherever you are.
It is a great opportunity to show your neighbours just how liberating and life-affirming spending time in the fresh air can be.
It isn’t an official British Naturism initiative but we are always happy to support projects that encourage people to discover how wonderful it is to be naked in the great outdoors!
If you participate, send in your photos...
As part of the Great British Skinny Dip, we're delighted to bring you another opportunity to enjoy this fantastic Art Deco outdoor pool complex as nature intended!
There are sun-bathing terraces, a large grass lawn and a café offering a wide range of refreshments
Come and join us on the evening of Saturday 28th May. More details here
Snap up the last few remaining rooms for Scotland's biggest Naturist weekend, The Gathering - 13th to 16th May, at Waverley Castle, Melrose.
We are looking forward to meeting members old and new. There is a full weekend of entertainment and the return of our world-famous Burns in the Buff supper on the Saturday night and the fabulous Reely Jiggered Ceilidh band. There will be plenty of activities - and remember to bring your towel for the swimming pool and enjoying the sun in the rear garden.
As we move into the summer season there are many opportunities to attend events and activities and practise Naturism with the wider community.
However, we know that such a thing is a daunting prospect for many and that going to a first event on your own can be intimidating. In The Forum Live Debate this month we will discuss this problem and examine both sides of the coin. First, we will consider what tips we might give to solo members on how to quickly integrate into the event so they are not alone for long. Second, we will discuss what we can do as a wider community to make solo first-timers welcome so people have an easy and fun first experience. Those of us who have been around for a while know what a welcoming community there is within British Naturism and 2022 could be the year that we see a lot of new faces crossing the threshold.
We look forward to seeing you all on Monday 9th May - access the session via this link (log in required)
Come and see British Naturism at the NEC!
Volunteer Expo Live
6th and 7th May 2022
Volunteer Expo Live is the UK's national volunteering show to celebrate the power of volunteering and community!
The last two years have shown us how important togetherness, community and supporting each other has been. And that’s exactly what British Naturism is about, so we’re taking the opportunity to attend Volunteer Expo at the NEC, Birmingham on the 6th and 7th May 2022.
Volunteer Expo will enable British Naturism to build brand awareness by sharing our story about volunteering, communicate our values and promote clothes free living.
The exhibition will also give us the chance to network and build connections with other charities and organisations; and demonstrate that British Naturism is an integral part of the national voluntary sector, working alongside other volunteer-involving organisations.
Volunteer Expo Live takes place at the NEC, Birmingham on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th May 2022 from 10.00am – 4.00pm, and tickets are completely free! You can book your tickets here: https://expoware.io/volunteer-expo-live-2022
If you are among the ticket holders attending, come and say hello! We're on stand D44.
Join BN for an evening cruise along the Dorset coast on Sunday, 29 May.
We'll cast off from Bournemouth Pier on the Dorset Belle at 6pm, and have approximately three hours on board to make the most of a great summer evening.
The bar will be open for us on board throughout the evening and there will be a buffet included in the ticket cost.
Find all the details and book your ticket!
As May approaches, the naked calendar is filling up. From afternoon swims to a full week of camping, there should be something for everyone this coming month! See below for all the details.
Our National Pétanque competition starts us off this weekend, at Blackthorns, Bedfordshire. Please ensure that you have confirmed your attendance prior to arrival. This weekend you will also find a walk in Oxfordshire, our Women Uncovered monthly online chat and an Open Weekend at Hillside Club near Macclesfield in Cheshire who invite BN members to join them in their woodland haven.
Great British Skinny dips are now appearing on the calendar too! It used to be one day, but why not spread them out to give us all a chance to try as many new places as possible, away from the traditional seaside skinny dips, and pool. The traditional Lidos are making a statement on the calendar. I haven’t personally been to a lido since I was a little girl, I thought they had all disappeared. I can’t wait to try a few this summer, there was always something magical about a lido! Peterborough Lido tickets are already on sale for the summer if you want to get a head of the trend!
Coming up soon is a weekend hosted by Liverpool Sun and Air Society for Solo Naturists. By Solo, we mean single travellers who for whatever reason, are single, married, have a significant other, but practice Naturism on their own. This is a chance to meet up with other Naturists in a beautiful setting. There is also the National Swimming Gala - your chance to represent Great Britain at the INF international gala, later in the year!
Mid May, we head up to the SANER region to Scotland and the team at Melrose for The Gathering. The final overnight event for May will be the week-long Nudestock in Doncaster.
The Summer does seem quite a while off, as the tulips and cherry blossoms are just in bloom, though with the absence of big events the last few years, events are selling out quickly. Please consider booking events well in advance. I’m told that Nudefest Day tickets are now on limited availability. After my experience at the first naked fitness weekend at Sunfolk last weekend, I will be encouraging more people to book and join us in July, apparently, they have already booked more for the second weekend in July, beating the attendance last weekend. Even with the clouds hiding the sun, come July the weather should be amazing. After an enjoyable day and wanting to stay longer, this woman of creature comforts, has also booked in for a night Glamping, at the end of the month. It’s taken four years of being a naturist, and I’m finally starting to earn my camping badge! Nudestock 2023, may be on my calendar soon!
Have a lovely bank holiday weekend.
Amanda
x
British Naturism Pétanque Tournament
Fri 29 April - Mon 2 May
The British Naturism National Pétanque Tournament is being held at Blackthorns Sun Club this weekend. Open to all BN members and club members. Please register in advance, contact Roni on 07879 714455 or Email: pro@blackthorns.org.uk
Naturist Walk - Christmas Common, Watlington
Fri 29 Apr 2022, 12:30 - 17:30
Join the BN Eastern region and Milton Keynes Naturist Meet and Greet Group for a 7.2 mile circular naturist walk starting at/returning to Christmas Common, near Watlington, Oxfordshire.
Women Uncovered monthly Online Chat
Sun 1 May 10.30
The monthly coffee morning returns this Sunday 1 May, at 10.30am, open to all women. Join in for a naturist topic and a catch up. Available via the BN shop.
Hillside May Day Social
Sun 1 May, 11:00 - 17:30
Hillside welcomes all BN Visitors to this event. For an invitation, please contact the Membership Secretary, in advance. Weather permitting the day will include outdoor games and activities, Badminton, Pétanque (Boules), Mölkky, Swingball, Table Tennis. Afternoon BBQ (bring your own food). Evening Quiz with prizes.
Liverpool Sun and Air Solo’s Weekend
Sat 6 May to Mon 8 May
A weekend of fun and sociable activity for Naturists on their own.
BN National Swimming Gala
Sat 7 May 2022, 17:30 - 22:00
The National Gala is open to British Naturism Members and guests from BN Naturism members clubs. It takes place in a 25m, 8-lane sort-course competition pool featuring starting blocks and electronic timing.
The Gathering
13 May – 16 May 2022
The Gathering in Melrose is now only two weeks away,13th May to 16th May. There are still a limited number of rooms available including twin rooms for single occupancy for a small supplement. The world-famous Burns in the Buff Supper is back followed by a Ceilidh and a full programme of activities including visit to local swimming pool. Snap up these last few spaces now!
Nude Cruise from Bournemouth Pier
Sun 29 May 2022, 18:00 - 21:00
Tickets still available for this fabulous boat trip on the South Coast. Casting off from Bournemouth Pier guests will have approximately three hours on board to make the most of a great summer evening. The bar will be open throughout and a buffet is including in the price.
Nudestock, Doncaster
Sat 28 May - Sun 5 June 2022
Organised by the volunteers in the Yorkshire & East Midlands region at Candy Farm near Doncaster. Nudestock is a week-long budget camping event featuring daytime fun and games plus live entertainment.
** STOP PRESS **
Highland Walking Weekend
27 May - 30 May 2022
This event sold out a while ago but a space has become available unexpectedly. Join BN for a long weekend in the remote Scottish Highlands.
Don't forget, there are always plenty of Naturist swims happening week in and week out around the country. Use the following links to find out more about them and all events in May including walks, naked dining and garden visits.
Events run by British Naturism - events.bn.org.uk
All other events (you can add your own!) - bn.org.uk/calendar
Online events - 20 each week - shop.bn.org.uk/pages/online-home
The Great British Skinny Dip - greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk
Although the weather remains stubbornly chilly, it’s time to start giving serious thought to how you - and your friends, family and colleagues - might want to take part in a Great British Skinny Dip (or more than one!).
It’s not just about flinging yourself naked into a pool, lake, lido, sea or some other body of water. Of course, that’s a fabulous way to participate in the GBSD, and the more companions you bring with you, the merrier! We’d love to have huge turnouts at all the events.
But beyond that, we need you to find suitable venues for the dips and to host events. Whether you have a venue in mind or need to find one, we have all the information you need: https://www.greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk/host-a-dip
And last, but definitely not least, we’d like to remind you of BN’s newly reinvigorated partnership with the British Heart Foundation. GBSD events are a fantastic opportunity to fundraise, fundraise, fundraise for BHF, a charity that’s all about keeping us heart-healthy. We’ve even launched a new Just Giving page.
Here’s what you can look forward to in coming days:
30 April and 7 May: Spectrum Swim, Birmingham
7 May: Hay on Wye, Herefordshire
8 May: Northampton Sun Group, Northamptonshire
Be sure to keep checking the GBSD calendar for more!
Don't forget all the wonderful things you can get from the UK's national Naturist organisation ... there is plenty going on within our community, on- and off-line, including plenty of free content:
Join in our online events - from yoga to a pub night, and interviews to fitness classes. There's something every day and 20 sessions every week!
Check the live events we run and the calendar of regional events and swims
Raise money for our national charity, British Heart Foundation, at a Great British Skinny Dip or Naked Heart Walk - venues announcing soon!
Read over one hundred articles on our news pages about a wide variety of Naturist and Naturist-related subjects
Visit goodtimes.bn.org.uk and discover how amazing and vibrant our community is
Learn about our many campaigns, including inspiring, first-person stories from Women in Naturism
Follow us on social media - we're active on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter
Sign up for our regular newsletters and get information straight to your inbox
The members' side of our website (login required) is chock-full of interesting stuff. Naturists from the UK and beyond are currently discussing and debating a variety of topics - not all related to Naturism - and finding information, viewing event and other images, reading blogs and more. It also contains a variety of interesting and useful downloads including full copies of BN Magazine back to 2004! It all comes free as part of a British Naturism annual subscription.
Here's a guide on how to log in and use the member's section of the website and a new Quickstart Guide to help you find your way around...
Not a member? It's easy to join...find out how and details of all the benefits you will receive
We are pleased to announce that Sheryn's popular fun fitness will return for a session dedicated to raising funds for the people of Ukraine.
Sheryn's sessions started during the first lockdown and proved to be popular. Many of you will also have enjoyed them live at some of our big events.
The class will take place online at 5pm next Saturday, 30th April and will run for approx 40 minutes. It is low impact with options for high impact for those who chose to step it up.
Follow this link to find further details and how to join the class (login required)
If you would like to donate and not attend this class, it is also possible do this by following the link above.
A few weeks ago, we had snow and log fires, this week sun and sunburn! What beautiful weather we have had, fingers crossed it will last throughout our summer season. The calendar is filling up beautifully. My problem is how to fit everything in!
Did you know that, unless stated otherwise, you can attend any event, no matter where you live? Just check the registration details for the location or club, and, in most cases, you can just phone or email ahead and ask for an invite.
There are some big events planned for May. The SANER region welcomes all back to the Gathering, with the last few rooms available still to book. At the opposite end of the luxury scale is Nudestock in Doncaster, where the YEM region welcome you to a budget week on a campsite. Both are currently still booking – but please do so sooner rather than later to avoid disappointment! Watch the forum for up-to-date details on events and activities.
Here's more to look forward to.
Reminder: Nudefest, 4 July-11 July
Not many day tickets left! Book soon to avoid disappointment! https://shop.bn.org.uk/pages/nudefest
This Weekend and Next Week Sleaford Swim. Sleaford Swim are welcoming members of BN to their traditional BBQ this Friday, 22 April. http://sleafordnaturistswim.blogspot.com/
British Naturism: Sunfolk Naked Fitness Weekend
Sat 23 to Sun 24 April 2022
Join Georgia (Naked Yoga), Jooles (GroovX fitness) and Roy (Group Fitness) for a weekend of focussed fitness, wellbeing, and meditation. The two-day live fitness events cost only £99 per person and include a pitch. https://british-naturism.bookinglayer.com/en/product/naked-fitness-breaks
British Naturism Pétanque Tournament
Fri 29 April Mon 2 May
The British Naturism National Pétanque Tournament is being held at Blackthorns Sun Club April 29th until 2nd May. Open to all BN members and club members. For more information email pro@blackthorns.org.uk
Food & Drink with Nothing On - Pretty Things, Horsham
Sat 23 Apr 2022, 18:30- 21:30
Quirky and cosy, Pretty Things in the centre of Horsham offers a welcome drink on arrival and an amazing grazing platter for £22 per person. Book Via Nothing on Events https://nothingonevents.co.uk/event/food-drink-with-nothing-on-horsham-pretty-things-april-2022/
Stark Trekker Walk Kent
27 Apr 2022, 11:30-16:00
A 6-mile naturist walk through orchards (hopefully in blossom), returning along the banks of the River Rother. See website www.justwearasmile.co.uk/natram for details.
Food & Drink with Nothing On - Tottington Manor, Henfield
Wed 27 Apr 2022 19:30-23:00
Delight in the stunning views of the South Downs whilst enjoying an authentic Sri Lankan curry served with rice and poppadom as well as a Sri Lankan inspired cocktail or beer for £23 per person. Please book via the Nothing On webform https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSee2RRoaFTHuO5F0Gy14R8BsebR9lU_HHcQeOjKnqnHCi5BIA/viewform
Christmas Common, Watlington - Naturist Walk
Fri 29 Apr 2022, 12:30-17:30
Join the BN Eastern region and Milton Keynes Naturist Meet and Greet Group for a 7.2-mile circular naturist walk starting at/returning to Christmas Common, near Watlington, Oxfordshire. For further information or to book this event, please contact organisers via at easternwalks@bn.org.uk, giving your name, mobile phone number and membership status.
Swims
Club Naturel The first and third Fridays 2-4 pm of the month. Evenings are 8-10 pm on the remaining Fridays. Visitors welcome by prior arrangement Club Naturel (clubnaturelnorfolk.yolasite.com).
Glasgow Sunday Swim at Arlington Baths every Sunday. Contact https://www.thesundayswim.org/
Manchester Male Naturist Swim Every Thursday, 19:00-20:30pm. For any queries, please email swiminfo@manchestermalenakedswim.co.uk or search @mcrmalenkdswim on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
MNSC Swim -Newmarket Sat 16:30- 17:30
A regular swim at Newmarket Leisure Centre run by Mildenhall Naturist Swimming Club. Full details at the club website. https://mnsc.org.uk/
Noah's Ark Naturist Swim Sun 16:15-18:00 please call Jon on 07940 881 100 during the week prior to your first visit.
North West Naturists last Saturday of the month 16:30 -19:30.Check www.northwestnaturists.co.uk please request an invitation prior to arrival by e-mail nwnswim@googlemail.com or phone/text 07947 645369
Nudie Dudie Swim, Sun 15:30-16:30 Over 18's only. Newcomers please contact Andy on 07817773479. Please arrive 10-15 minutes before. Afterwards Boverton Castle Pub. Lunch to be booked.
Ryedale Naturist Club Swim Every 2 weeks on Sunday 3pm to 5pm Derwent Pool, Norton, YO17 9HP. For information contact the club on 07528 409332 or visit our web site www.ryedalenaturistclub.co.uk
Spectrum Swim every week on Saturday 18:00-21:00 at the Morris Centre, Birmingham. Please contact the club before attending. See http://www.spectrumclub.org.uk/
WirralNats Chester Swim Weekly Saturdays swim 18:15-20:15 at the Northgate Arena. Please book in advance via http://www.wirralnats.org.uk/
And watch for…
Liverpool Solo Weekend
Fri 06 May 2022, 11:00 Sun 08 May 2022, 18:00
Hay-on-Wye GBSD, Powys
Sat 7 May 15.00-17.00
NW Regional Miniten, Liverpool open to NW BN and NW club members
Sun 08 May 2022, 10:00
Natram Walk
Tues 10 May 2022 Pilgrim’s Way
Food & Drink with Nothing On - 1620 Eatery & Pub, Plymouth
Thu 12 May 2022
Out Cheek2Cheek Brailes walk with Sarah T
Fri 13 May 2022, 11:00
Elswick Pool, Newcastle upon Tyne returns
Sat 14 May 2022, 17:50 - 19:30
Regular Meet and Greets in Hertfordshire, Hatfield and Stevenage with BN member Sunnyday aka John.
Check out all our event info!
Events run by British Naturism - events.bn.org.uk
All other events (you can add your own!) - bn.org.uk/calendar
Online events - 20 each week! - shop.bn.org.uk/pages/online-home
The Great British Skinny Dip - greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk
In next week’s The Forum Live (25 April) we will cover all things British Heart Foundation! Regular readers will know that we have reinvigorated our relationship with this huge national charity and are working closely with them to raise funds via Naked Heart Walks and Great British Skinny Dips.
Monday’s session will be a panel discussion and we will be pleased to welcome Rebecca Honey and Emily Lyle from British Heart Foundation who will explain their roles in our relationship and bring us up to date with the work of the charity. We will also be talking to a number of BN members from around the country who are working on arranging Naked Heart Walks and Great British Skinny Dips and we will bring you the details of dates and venues that are now in the calendar.
We also hope to inspire YOU - to host an event, to tell us about suitable venues, to participate by walking or swimming, by encouraging friends to join you, by helping out on the day and raising money by being sponsored.
Look forward to seeing you there!
British Naturism had an awesome weekend at the Mind Body Spirit festival in London, talking about all the benefits of being naked. A lot of inspirational conversations with very cool people.
Our assessment is that attendees are 80% female and very young and so it is a very suitable market place for us. Most attendees are residents of London looking for new things and so it is a receptive crowd.
Thanks to everyone who came over to say hi...
This weekend as we eagerly await a visit from the Easter bunny, it also mean the start of the Naturist season. The BN calendar is starting to fill up and after a long two years of uncertainty, I’m happy to see that there is a great variety for everyone! Though not just with our big events and weekends such as Nudefest, or the SANER regional weekend, The Gathering. Lots of local members have started their own ideas and groups. Recent forum posts and a Forum Live debate session have encouraged people to make their own ideas for events come to fruition, and how the BN regions can also help. Member-led walks are becoming established as well as experienced groups such as Natram, opening invitations to BN members. Naked dining is becoming even more popular, Nothing On events is an up and coming small naked events company, run by a BN Member. I attended the first event of the season and I thoroughly enjoyed it, I guess you really can do anything naked, including eating pizza!
The camping season is now underway too! British Naturism: Sunfolk opened this weekend for its third season, with entry and pitch fees frozen once again. Lots of specialist weekends are planned there, such as a families week in May, and a Pride weekend in June. There is an opportunity to indulge in Naked Fitness in real life next weekend, when you can be in the same room as our online Naked Fitness instructors, Georgia, Jooles and Roy, in Sunfolk’s beautiful surrounds - see below
Pre-booking is essential for camping, glamping & day visits - prices are frozen from 2020 starting at only £18.75 per night for a solo traveller and only £26.25 per couple.
Situated just outside of St Albans, only a few minutes from where the M1 & M25 meet, Sunfolk is the perfect location to explore the home counties, have a day out in London or visit Harry Potter World too.
MindBodySpirit Wellbeing Festival
Friday 15 April to Sunday 18 April
The benefits of nudity on mental wellbeing are proven. Several members of the BN team will be exhibiting at the MindBodySpirit Wellbeing Festival in London over Easter. The festival uses workshops and exhibitors to introduce visitors to yoga, massage, meditation, spiritualism and other ways to find inner peace. Naturism is a natural part of that puzzle, so we will be there to share our message. This is a great opportunity to find common cause with other groups and should be a lot of fun. Maybe see you there?
(Shhh a sneaky 2 for the price of one via Groupon, children go free https://www.groupon.co.uk/deals/gl-mind-body-spirit-2022-london-wellbeing-festival )
Naked Dining, Hampshire
Sat 16 Apr 2022, 19:30-23:00
BN’s LASER region present a Naked Dining event at the Folly Restaurant, Petersfield. A follow-on from the very successful 'Pie & Pint' event last year, at the same venue. Menu theme this time: Bangers and mash, veg and gravy, with a free first drink. Four menu choices including veggie/vegan option.
Hillside Naturist Easter Weekend, Cheshire
Saturday 16 Apr 2022 to Sunday 17 Apr 2022
April 15th Last date to book is Today!
At the North West Sunbathing Society, Easter Saturday (weather permitting): outdoor games and activities, including: Badminton, Petanque (Boules), Mölkky, Table Tennis. Afternoon barbeque (bring your own food).
Easter Sunday: Easter Egg Hunt and indoor or outdoor activities. Afternoon barbeque (bring your own food). Hillside welcome all BN members, but you must book in advance by today, Friday 15 April.
Swims this weekend
Glasgow Sunday Swim at Arlington Baths every Sunday contact https://www.thesundayswim.org/
Forth Naturist Swim in Haddington first and third Sunday at 16.30 Contact https://www.forthnaturists.co.uk/swim-details
Plymouth Sun Club Twice monthly, Monday 8.30pm and costs £5 each visit. No need to book, just pay with cash on the door. Please bring a photo ID if this is your first visit. https://www.bn.org.uk/calendar/event/6599-plymouth-sun-club/
North West Naturists last Saturday of the month 16:30 to 19:30. See Check www.northwestnaturists.co.uk for further details
Manchester Male Naturist Swim Every Thursday, 19:00-20:30pm For any queries, please email swiminfo@manchestermalenakedswim.co.uk or search @mcrmalenkdswim on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
Club Naturel The first and third Fridays 2-4 pm of the month. Evenings are 8-10 pm on the remaining Fridays. Visitors are welcome by prior arrangement Club Naturel (clubnaturelnorfolk.yolasite.com)
MNSC Swim -Newmarket Sat 16:30- 17:30. A regular swim at Newmarket Leisure Centre run by Mildenhall Naturist Swimming Club. Full details at the club website. https://mnsc.org.uk/
South Forest swim Edwinstowe 18:00 - 20:30. 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month. To pre book ring 01623 823866.
Spectrum Swim every week on Saturday 18:00-21:00 at the Morris Centre, Birmingham. Please contact the club before attending. See http://www.spectrumclub.org.uk/
WirralNats Chester Swim Weekly Saturdays swim 18:15-20:15 at the Northgate Arena. Please book in advance via http://www.wirralnats.org.uk/
Looking forward to next week:
Natram walk Wotton Wander - Thu 21 Apr 2022, 11:30-18:30
Join Natram for the first walk of the year. A 12-mile stroll along the edge of the North Downs near Dorking in Surrey.
Sleaford Swim - Fri April 22
Sleaford Swim are welcoming members of BN to their traditional BBQ on Friday 22 April. Contact the club directly for more information.
British Naturism: Sunfolk fitness weekend
Sat 23 to Sun 24 April 2022
We have two fitness breaks scheduled for the year hosted at British Naturism: Sunfolk. The two-day live fitness events cost only £99 per person and include a pitch. You can extend your stay to either 3 or 4 nights for an additional £19. You are also welcome to stay in a local hotel or travel in for the days. The weekends features great community spirit, nights round the campfire plus plenty of time to relax and enjoy the pool and sauna.
Don’t forget our two annual sports tournaments happening soon! Firstly, the BN pétanque competition hosted by Blackthorns Club. Under BN rules, you can play in a same gender pairing.
Secondly, the BN swimming Gala. As I can verify, you don’t need to be an expert swimmer to take part, I can barely swim but still managed to be awarded a place! Its is more about the fun and the camaraderie, and if you win a place and the chance to swim internationally all the better. Previously, we had all stayed over and had a meal together. Find details at events.bn.org.uk
Limited availability for Nudefest day tickets! Get yours before they are gone - nudefest.co.uk.
Check out all our event info!
Events run by British Naturism - events.bn.org.uk
All other events (you can add your own!) - bn.org.uk/calendar
Online events - 20 each week! - shop.bn.org.uk/pages/online-home
The Great British Skinny Dip - greatbritishskinnydip.co.uk
With communication to members, and those considering Naturism but not yet members, increasing and becoming even more important, British Naturism has appointed a new volunteer journalist, Dugie Eyton-Hughes.
Dugie has been a professional journalist since 1996 and a BN member since 2013. During the COVID lockdowns, she began participating in BN’s online yoga classes and joining in the Forum Live. After hearing my pitch for volunteers one Monday evening on the Forum Live, she offered her services.
Dugie began by writing news stories and blogs about the Great British Skinny Dip, and recently took over writing the E-Zine that drops into your in-box every Friday morning. We created a role description for her taking account of her specialist skills and the key tasks and responsibilities. She also writes occasional articles for the BN magazine, reports on events and interviews key people. She is also collaborating with me on British Naturism’s external media communications - especially with regard to our relationship with British Heart Foundation, Naked Heart Walks and The Great British Skinny Dip. She's made a real difference to our ability to communicate and I'm delighted to welcome her as an official volunteer.
Dugie says:
'I'm very happy to be part of the BN team. My volunteer work for BN gives me a chance to move a bit away from straight-up news reporting and learn about the PR side of things – a valuable new experience. It’s so important to get the word out about BN and about all the fabulous benefits of Naturism. I’m glad I can help!'
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Ian Munt as BN’s Sports Officer. In his new national volunteer role, Ian will work with BN Events Manager Mark Walsh.
Ian has enjoyed naturism for the last five years. Since joining BN around three years ago, he has attended national events such as Alton Towers and Bournemouth, BN: Sunfolk and overseas holidays. He also enjoys naturist sports such petanque, water polo and, especially, walking. He sees himself as a naturist sports enthusiast (rather than an expert) and wants to learn the rules of the game(s) and build the role steadily.
Professionally, Ian holds a senior role within a large corporation, setting up programmes; building risk assessments, developing policies and training programmes, and engaging with stakeholders in the UK, Europe and Asia. He has a range of transferable skills that will enable him to undertake his new role successfully.
Ian finds himself ‘in at the deep end’, literally, as he gets straight into helping Mark on the BN Swimming Gala taking place on 7 May 2022 (see link below for further information). Despite this, Ian says he “is greatly looking forward to the role and hopes to encourage more members to participate in naturist sports activities and events."
Here’s a reminder of a new leaflet we produced last year aimed at helping any Naturist who is challenged about being out and about in the nude. It’s a short document with links that can be shown on a mobile screen or printed and carried with you.
In fact, it is so short, we’ve reproduced it for you here:
Naturists, also known as nudists, are people who enjoy activities — including walking, cycling, sunbathing and swimming — in the nude.
There’s no need to be concerned if you meet naturists.
Simply being naked in a public place is not against the law. It doesn’t amount to “indecent exposure”, contrary to popular belief. We’re naturists, not flashers.
Police call handlers have instructions to explain to anyone who calls to report naturist walkers or ramblers that no offences are being committed and that no police attendance is necessary. If you’d like to know more, visit www.bn.org.uk/ policing.
There is no evidence that naturism—or the sight of a naked person or people walking or rambling—is in any way harmful to children or, for that matter, adults.
NATURISM IS GOOD FOR YOU
Naturism is increasingly popular as more people find it boosts a sense of well-being, freedom and happiness, and so is good for their physical and mental health. If you would like more information, visit British Naturism’s web site: www.bn.org.uk.
You can also download it from the BN website at bn.org.uk/files/file/1032-naturism-is-lawful-leaflet/ for you to print out and carry with you. There is also a pre-printed version that you can order from the BN shop.
Regular readers will be familiar with BN member Jooles Paillin-Dean and her plans to row the Atlantic. She's now joined in that quest by her new husband, Ian. You can read their story and learn more about their plans here.
Jooles and Ian will also be Andrew’s guests on next week's (11th April) Forum Live so come and hear from them face to face as we find out (even) more about how the idea came about, how they met, how their plans are progressing and how you can help make it a reality.
Access the session via this link.
Sadly, we’re all used to the misunderstandings there are about Naturism and Naturists, often based on the ‘social convention’ that somehow not wearing clothes makes us weird, or funny—or even dangerous. Reports in the UK media - newspapers and magazines, radio and TV - can often reinforce these mistakes or even make things worse by ignoring the fact that public nudity is perfectly legal. We’ve always tackled it, standing up for our community and educating journalists and others so that mistakes are corrected - and, importantly, not repeated in future reports.
We’re also always aiming to improve how we operate and so, with thanks to the input of many BN members via the forum, we’ve launched a new web page and downloadable document that everyone can use. It’s aimed at spreading understanding and correcting poor or misleading reporting in the media, but is just as useful as an educational aid in other situations. It’s a long paper, but it includes a summary so that the main points are easily digested.
So, when you see something that needs correcting, send a link to the page, attach the PDF, or copy the section that covers the issue that needs action - and help us to make sure everyone knows the truth!
Find it on this website at bn.org.uk/media_briefing/. You will also find a link on that page (and in the downloads section) to a PDF version.
In The Forum Live Debate this month we will take the opportunity to reflect on what first attracted each of us to Naturism. We know that Naturism means different things to different people, but that we are all here as members of British Naturism. So how did we get here? This debate will be a great opportunity to reminisce on experiences that have marked our lives, but will also guide us as we think about how we can promote Naturism and appeal to people to give it a try. The experiences that brought us here might just work for others!
We look forward to seeing you all on Monday 4th April - access the session via this link (log in required)
Many of our members enjoy visiting Britain’s Naturist beaches, whether they live near the coast, are having a day out, or while away on a UK holiday. Everyone will no doubt have their favourite destination!
For those visiting Naturist beaches for the first time, however, finding these destinations can be a bit of a challenge, perhaps because the information on how to find them is out of date or not accessible to them. And for some beaches, they may only be accessible if you have mountain goat abilities.
To address these challenges, improve access to local beaches and promote their use by Naturists and the general public, we need a team of volunteer Beach Officers, based across all regions, covering designated beaches or coastline. Besides having a knowledge of Naturist beaches in their area (or a willingness to acquire it), good research and recce skills and an enthusiasm for promoting Naturist beaches to the wider public, is required.
Importantly, it is a role that volunteers can grow into and develop for themselves, helping to build bridges between Naturist beach users and the local authorities and communities.
We’re delighted to announce that we have recently appointed David Bellis as the Regional Beach Officer for the stretch of beach on the south coast from Christchurch to Southampton. Most of the beaches are on the edge of the New Forest and the area has many small holiday resorts and caravan sites. Another factor of note is that this particular coastline stretches across two of British Naturism’s regions; the London and South East Region and into the South West Region, so David is volunteering in both regions, undertaking a single role.
Viv Rimmer, Regional Coordinator for the London and South East Region, said, ‘We are pleased to be able to appoint one of the first Regional Beach Officers in partnership with the South West Region and would like to thank David for his enthusiasm and commitment to promoting Naturism and social nudity.’
David is responsible for the Hengistbury Head, Taddiford Gap, East End, Park Shore and Calshot Naturist beaches and lives nearby in Lymington. David will be getting down to the beaches this spring to check out access routes and plans to make regular visits to the beaches this summer to speak with visitors. He looks forward to meeting you if you are visiting. You can contact David by email (david.bellis@bn.org.uk) or via the BN website (@Dave Bellis).
More information on beaches can be found on the UK Places to Go pages - bn.org.uk/activities/placestogo/
For more information on other Beach Officer vacancies, please visit our Volunteering Opportunities pages on the BN website or contact John Gelder, Volunteering Officer, by email to john.gelder@bn.org.uk
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