Whilst viewing the North West region’s collection of Naked Heart Walks and Great British Skinny Dip events in advance, I had visions of this event being the most difficult to sell and to accomplish any kind of real success. Perhaps this was fuelled by some suggestions of the venue not being suitable for a walk, or may be the slow response regarding early ticket sales.
I needn't have worried! Because it was a 'double' event (Charity Walk and Skinny Dip) it gave us a springboard for reaching out to two separate sources of interest, making it even more appealing. The open water swimming in the large lake was far more popular than anticipated, thus attracting Naturists with alternative interests from walking.
As for the walk being shorter - well it didn’t really deter anyone at all and I came to realise that the Naturists in areas that are not really well served with events were really grateful for us taking the show on the road. They were completely happy to mingle and socialise with other attendees, engaging in conversation whilst clothes-free enjoying the Worcestershire summer sunshine.
We even attracted a few new Naturists, who were nervous at the start, but perfectly comfortable once they realised how quickly they began to enjoy being clothes free - not one of the 60 guests remained clothed throughout the day. My wife spoke to two of the newbies at length - Kelly from Merseyside and Carisa from Birmingham and they were even happy to be photographed Naturally. I am 100% sure we will return to this superb venue with its fabulous facilities in 2024.
Ron O’Hare (NW Organiser / PRO).