Naked Comedy is back!
Another incredible line up for our Naked Comedy Nights on 21 November in London with Ben Van Der Velde, Marcel Lucont, Kate Lucas and Daman Bamrah.
A Naked Comedy Night is exactly what you think it is - lots of Naked people in a warm social setting enjoying a great laugh!
Find out more and book your place!
British Naturism is the UK member of the International Naturist Federation, the global organisation for Naturists that exists to represent, support and coordinate Naturist activity worldwide. If you are a BN member, you are automatically a member of the INF! You can find out more at inf-fni.com.
Their newsletter - Focus - is published every two months and provides an update as to what’s going on in the INF and beyond
The latest issue is out now and is available from the BN website
We're sad to report that the Aquasol Family Naturist Club has closed following the decision of the pool trustees to change the start time of their swim, which meant that many of the club members could no longer attend.
Don't despair! British Naturism are setting up a new club to continue the long tradition of a Naturist swim in Bristol which will meet every Wednesday at Jubilee Pool, Jubilee Road, Knowle, Bristol BS4 2LP from 9pm to 10pm. First one - tomorrow, Wednesday 11th October!
Everyone is welcome for both swimming and the social. The cost is £5.50 per person, payable in cash and if you are new to the swim, please contact Terry or Andy in advance.
We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next couple of weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
Club Naturel Swim
October 6
Join us for either an afternoon or evening swim, or even both.
Norfolk
Naked Fitsteps
October 6
Join Caroline for a 90 minute special with a chance to dance your way into the night after.
Derbyshire
The Big Quiz
October 6
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Watford Swims
October 6
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
October 6
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Sparkle Day
October 7
Spread some sparkle to raise funds for Brain Tumour Support & Macmillan Cancer Support.
Merseyside
Wirral Nats.
October 7
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist, Chester, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
South Forest Swim
October 7
From 6.00pm, limited to 60 people so pre booking is recommended.
Nottinghamshire
Spectrum Swim
October 7
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Nothing On
October 7
Join us for a couple of hours in a warm, friendly and safe environment in the pool and seating area.
Lancashire
Noah’s Ark Swim
October 8
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Northampton Sun Group
October 8
We have access to 2 swimming pools and use of the sauna and steam rooms.
Northamptonshire
Prested Hall Swim
October 8
Swimming pool, sauna & steam rooms, poolside loungers & licenced restaurant/bistro.
Essex
Glasgow Swim
October 8
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Dover Naturists Swim
October 8
Join us for our first swim on the autumn / winter season.
Kent
Stark Trekkers Mayfield
October 10
Join us for a walk through ancient woodlands near Mayfield.
East Sussex
Bristol Swim
October 11
A new club which continues the long tradition of a naturist swim in Bristol, following the closure of Aquasol.
Avon
Manchester Male Swim
October 12
Every Thursday evening but need to RSVP as numbers limited to 30 maximum.
Lancashire
The Big Quiz
October 13
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Club Naturel Swim
October 13
Join us for either an afternoon or evening swim, or even both.
Norfolk
Watford Swims
October 13
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
October 13
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Wigton Swim
October 14
A monthly swim at the Wigton Pool.
Cumbria
TROC Monthly Swim & Gym
October 14
A monthly swim with a gym available.
Tyne & Wear
Spectrum Swim
October 14
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Wirral Nats.
October 14
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist, Chester, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
Ryedale Swim
October 15
Fortnightly swim at Norton
County Durham
Noah’s Ark Swim
October 15
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Forth Naturist Swim
October 15
Swim 25m pool, children’s pool, sauna & steam rooms, sports hall plus refreshments.
East Lothian
Badminton Indoors
October 15
Join Forth Naturists in Haddington.
East Lothian
The Potteries Swim
October 15
Join us at the Jubilee Baths for this evening swim.
Staffordshire
Glasgow Swim
October 15
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Dover Naturists Swim
October 15
Join us for our evening swim of the autumn / winter season.
Kent
Plymouth Swim
October 16
Twice monthly, Monday evening swimming in Plympton Pool, both lane swimming and socialising with friends.
Devon
The Chat
October 17
Join us for an hour of banter and chat about whatever you want.
Online
Bristol Swim
October 18
A new club which continues the long tradition of a naturist swim in Bristol, following the closure of Aquasol.
Avon
Manchester Male Swim
October 19
Every Thursday evening but need to RSVP as numbers limited to 30 maximum.
Lancashire
Club Naturel Swim
October 20
Join us for either an afternoon or evening swim, or even both.
Norfolk
The Big Quiz
October 20
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Ladies Only Swim
October 20
A clothes optional swim in a privately owned indoor pool with Jacuzzi, sauna & showers.
Norfolk
Watford Swims
October 20
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
October 20
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
MSNC Swim
October 21
A regular swim plus sauna & steam room at Bury St Edmunds Leisure Centre.
Suffolk
Spectrum Swim
October 21
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Wirral Nats.
October 21
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist, Chester, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
South Forest Swim
October21
From 6.00pm, limited to 60 people so pre booking is recommended.
Nottinghamshire
Southampton Swim
October 21
Family swim at the Oaklands Community Pool.
Hampshire
Noah’s Ark Swim
October 22
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
River Lee Cruise
October 22
A river cruise with fish & chip supper & maybe entertainment.
Hertfordshire
Prested Hall Swim
October 22
Swimming pool, sauna & steam rooms, poolside loungers & licenced restaurant/bistro.
Essex
Glasgow Swim
October 22
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Dover Naturists Swim
October 22
Join us for our evening swim of the autumn / winter season.
Kent
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together...
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
Election of Vice Chair - Colin Ratcliff
We are pleased to announce the election of Colin Ratcliff as the new Vice Chair of British Naturism. Colin has been a member for 15 years, one of the wardens at Sunfolk and a regular attendee and volunteer at many of our events. Professionally, Colin is a retired Detective Inspector and department head in forensic and homicide sectors. Colin’s professional experience within the police force brings us an understanding of the methods of working that can only enhance our strategic planning as we continually work to protect the rights of Naturists and work to improve acceptance of all across society. Colin’s professional experience includes the management of large budgets and the supervision of large numbers of staff in a complex management system. As such it is hard to imagine anybody better qualified.
Colin follows on from Jon Williams who notified us that he would not stand again when he was elected two years ago, meaning that we have had a long lead time to find such a capable individual to stand as successor and integrate into the role. As such, we lose none of the experience and knowledge accumulated by Jon, and instead gain the new ideas, views and approaches that Colin brings to British Naturism. These are exciting times, new people create new opportunities and after several very productive years, we can expect to kick on again.
Election of International Officer - Anne Nisbet
We are pleased to announce the election of Anne Nisbet as the new International Officer of British Naturism. Anne, whohas been a Naturist since her teens, is also one of the wardens at Sunfolk and a regular attendee and volunteer at many of our events. Professionally, Anne still represents the UK on the International Commission on Radiological Protection and currently heads up an international Task Group on Radiation Emergencies and Malicious Events. She has previously coordinated a European stakeholder network, so is very skilled in the management of international relations and knows how the subtleties of cultural differences has an enormous effect on successful team building on the international stage.
Anne follows on from Edwin Kilby who stepped back from his role as International Director upon his election as Vice President of the International Naturist Federation (INF). These changes are fantastic news as Edwin, of course, remains heavily involved while Anne brings new ideas, views and approaches. These are exciting times, the INF itself is going through a renaissance so Anne’s skill will help to shape both our position on the global stage and the achievements of the international body itself. British Naturism is unique in having an International Director and that is in recognition of how important it is to work as a global community. For the first time in many years, Anne was appointed through a contested election, so we already know that the support of members is behind her and that she represents us internationally with confidence.
Please join me in welcoming both Colin and Anne as we look forward to the global progression of Naturism that we know is ahead.
Next Monday, 9th October, i'll pleased to welcome back Cypress Cove's marketing director Dan Whicker to the Forum Live. Aside from being probably the US's premier Naturist resort, Dan and Cypress Cove are big supporters of British Naturism including being sponsors at Nudefest, support they will repeat in 2024.
We'll hear from Dan about all the possibilities for holidays at Cypress Cove and all that the local Florida area has to offer - it's a great base for all the Disney and other theme parks. We'll learn something of the history and future plans of this partly-residential Naturist spot and all its facilities.
Join the session on the night over in the BN shop
Certificates of Merit are awarded to individuals or teams of people who have provided exceptional service to the cause of Naturism. We have many volunteers who make enormous contributions, all worthy of praise, the Merit Awards recognise those who have gone beyond that either recently or over an extended period of time. Nominations came from both members and the EC, and four awards were made:
Tim Higgs and the Clover Spa Team
Tim has created a first-class Naturist facility, battling against criticism from the mainstream market and remaining true to his original dream. He has built a dedicated and professional team who encourage the Naturist lifestyle. He has used events including “Young Clover” weekends and couples weekends to create entry points for demographic groups often underrepresented in Naturism, often at the expense of an optimal business model. There are many testimonies of guests having their first experience of communal nudity at Clover Spa and becoming Naturists as a result.
Outside the business, he has actively promoted Naturism, on occasion putting himself on the line, through television appearances and appearances at various events. His contribution to Naturism overall was seen as exceptional.
Roy Nichols
Roy is a volunteer, which may come as a surprise to some, given the frequent use of the word “professional” to describe his contribution. He has been part of the events team for about five years, but even more importantly is part of the safeguarding team, and has been for at least three years. Typical of his contribution over that period was his work during Nudefest this year, when he was already about at 6.30am, and still around at 1am making sure everyone was OK and safely in bed. He was described as “always the last man standing”.
Roy has been instrumental in setting up ‘safe spaces’ at BN’s events and his care, support and diplomacy in managing incidents is exceptional. His contribution goes well beyond what might be expected of him in his role and is of invaluable benefit to those who attend events: even if they don’t see him, they are safe in the knowledge that Roy is there as part of the team who help look after them. For all those reasons Roy’s contribution has been exceptional.
Jon Williams
Jon has been vice-chair of the organisation for some three years, for most of that time being acting chair. His term coincided with some of the most difficult issues BN has had to deal with. He also, perhaps most visibly, accepted responsibility for the biggest project BN has ever taken on, namely the development and improvement of Sunfolk, something that he has approached with evident competence.
Overall, he has brought calmness and professionalism to the management of BN and especially the conduct of meetings, both of the EC and of the management team, bringing into play transferable skills from his business background. These achievements, alongside the fact that he was able to contribute so much to BN whilst employed full-time and enjoying his other non-professional interests – to say nothing of the various Naturist events that he has led such as the Highland walking weekends – makes his contribution exceptional.
Jon has committed to continue to manage the Sunfolk project into the next phase, reporting to the EC and the management team, and to manage our retail operations, but will be stepping down from the EC at the AGM, so now seems an apt time to award a certificate of merit.
Edwin Kilby
Edwin joined the British Naturism EC in 2018, taking up the post of International Director. Over years in which global politics have been fractious, Edwin elevated the influence of British Naturism and was instrumental in the evolution of the leadership of the INF itself. Edwin’s diplomacy overcame the partisan divides within the INF leadership and mediated an outcome that was beneficial to all. By doing so, Edwin has reinforced our position as a global influence for good and made close allies of many federations.
Edwin’s successes are equally evident at home. Edwin has gathered together a team of legally qualified volunteers so we now have expertise in a wide range of legal matters. The legal team of Peter and Christine Wright have been our most evident advocates in legal matters and Edwin has supported them so that their focussed and unmatched expertise has been backed up by professional advice where needed. Edwin has taken the lead in managing various legal challenges to the organisation that have arisen, thus protecting British Naturism, and has been responsible for much of the documentation that British Naturism relies on to act effectively and within the law.
What will be evident from this list, is that most of Edwin’s work has been done out of sight, despite being critical to the success of British Naturism. Therefore, it is the right time to recognise that work as he moves to do similar things for the INF.
Broader Recognition
Although we celebrate those recipients, it is important that we remember that there are many other names in the mix. They might not be receiving an award this year, but that takes nothing away from their achievements and in many cases they are at the start rather than the end of a period of influence. Therefore, we applaud all volunteers and know that we will see even more nominations next year.
Costume-free swimming is gaining in popularity and British Naturism is pleased to announce the return of the Dover Naturist Swim! The first swim takes place on Sunday, 8 October, at the Dover Leisure Centre, and will then run weekly through Autumn and Winter. The cost, £7 per person plus £15 for club membership, includes access to all facilities, such as the pool, sauna and steam room. The event is open to all with identification such as a British Naturism membership card or driving license.
In an Ipsos poll, commissioned by British Naturism and published last year, 14% of respondents described themselves as Naturists or nudists. That’s 6.75 million adults in the UK! Even better, a much larger proportion (39%) said they had taken part in recreation, without clothing with swimming without a costume being the most popular.
Rod Baker, chairman of the Dover Naturist Swimming Club said:
“The clubs purpose is to enable people who want to swim without a costume to do so and we welcome anyone who is new to Naturism to give it a try. We swam costume free at the Old Sports Centre for over 40 years, and are now enjoying the new, purpose-built facilityin Whitfield.. We’re a friendly club with a relaxed attitude so if you haven’t tried swimming naked, this is the ideal place to start!”
Colin Taylor, deputy regional organiser for BN’s London and South East Region, said:
"It's great to see this regular swim on the calendar again. I would encourage members to support the club and newcomers to go along and give it a try. Once you have swum with no costume on you will never want to wear one again! And I’d encourage any other venues that would like to accommodate swims like this to get in touch.”
We have people willing to be interviewed and stock photos for media use.
Media attendance is possible, with advance notice please.
Contacts:
Dover Naturist Swimming Club
Rod Baker
doverswim@hotmail.com
Colin Taylor
British Naturism LASER Region
colin.taylor@bn.org.uk
Useful addresses
Dover Naturist Swim information - Dover Swim
British Naturism - bn.org.uk; goodtimes.bn.org.uk
We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next couple of weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
Amsterdam Spa Break
September 29 to October 2
A Spa Break which includes hotel B&B plus a couple of trips to the city.
Holland
The Big Quiz
September 29
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Club Naturel Swim
September 29
Afternoon & evening swims.
Norfolk
Watford Swims
September 29
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
September 29
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Strangers in Between
September 30
A clothing optional theatre outing & meet the star of the show.
London
Worsley Swim
September 30
Enjoy warm pools for swimming & exercise, sauna & steam rooms & a lounge with refreshments.
Greater Manchester
Virtual Golf Night
September 30
Join us for Virtual golf plus food and a bar, for beginners to seasoned golf pros.
Buckinghamshire
Spectrum Swim
September 30
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Chester Swim
September 30
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
Southampton Swim
September 30
Open event at the Oaklands Pool.
Hampshire
Cardiff Sunday Meet Up
October 1
This is a friendly coffee meet up and is clothing optional.
Glamorgan
Swim at Seaford
October 1
Join us for this Sunday afternoon swim.
East Sussex
Ryedale Swim
October 1
Fortnightly swim at Derwent Pool.
Yorkshire
Noah’s Ark Swim
October 1
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Haddington Swim
October 1
With a 25m and children’s pools, sauna, steam room, sports hall and café.
East Lothian
Badminton Indoors
October 1
Join us for indoor badminton plus access to sauna and steam rooms or a swim, refreshments available.
East Lothian
The Potteries Swim
October 1
Join us at the Jubilee Baths for this evening swim.
Staffordshire
Glasgow Swim
October 1
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Plymouth Swim
October 2
A Monday evening swim in Plympton Pool, lane swimming as well as for the less energetic or just socialise.
Devon
The Chat
October 3
Join us for an hour of chat and banter.
Online
Bristol Swim
October 4
A new club which continues the long tradition of a naturist swim in Bristol, following the closure of Aquasol.
Avon
Manchester Male Swim
October 5
Every Thursday evening but need to RSVP as numbers limited to 30 maximum.
Lancashire
Club Naturel Swim
October 6
Join us for either an afternoon or evening swim, or even both.
Norfolk
Naked Fitsteps
October 6
Join Caroline for a 90 minute special with a chance to dance your way into the night after.
Derbyshire
The Big Quiz
October 6
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Watford Swims
October 6
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
October 6
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Sparkle Day
October 7
Spread some sparkle to raise funds for Brain Tumour Support & Macmillan Cancer Support.
Merseyside
Wirral Nats.
October 7
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist, Chester, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
South Forest Swim
October 7
From 6.00pm, limited to 60 people so pre booking is recommended.
Nottinghamshire
Spectrum Swim
October 7
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Nothing On
October 7
Join us for a couple of hours in a warm, friendly and safe environment in the pool and seating area.
Lancashire
Noah’s Ark Swim
October 8
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Northampton Sun Group
October 8
We have access to 2 swimming pools and use of the sauna and steam rooms.
Northamptonshire
Prested Hall Swim
October 8
Swimming pool, sauna & steam rooms, poolside loungers & licenced restaurant/bistro.
Essex
Glasgow Swim
October 8
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Dover Naturists Swim
October 8
Join us for our first swim on the autumn / winter season.
Kent
Stark Trekkers Mayfield
October 10
Join us for a walk through ancient woodlands near Mayfield.
East Sussex
Bristol Swim
October 11
A new club which continues the long tradition of a naturist swim in Bristol, following the closure of Aquasol.
Avon
Manchester Male Swim
October 12
Every Thursday evening but need to RSVP as numbers limited to 30 maximum.
Lancashire
The Big Quiz
October 13
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Club Naturel Swim
October 13
Join us for either an afternoon or evening swim, or even both.
Norfolk
Watford Swims
October 13
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
October 13
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Wigton Swim
October 14
A monthly swim at the Wigton Pool.
Cumbria
TROC Monthly Swim & Gym
October 14
A monthly swim with a gym available.
Tyne & Wear
Spectrum Swim
October 14
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Wirral Nats.
October 14
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist, Chester, with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
Ryedale Swim
October 15
Fortnightly swim at Norton
County Durham
Noah’s Ark Swim
October 15
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Forth Naturist Swim
October 15
Swim 25m pool, children’s pool, sauna & steam rooms, sports hall plus refreshments.
East Lothian
Badminton Indoors
October 15
Join Forth Naturists in Haddington.
East Lothian
The Potteries Swim
October 15
Join us at the Jubilee Baths for this evening swim.
Staffordshire
Glasgow Swim
October 15
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Dover Naturists Swim
October 15
Join us for our evening swim of the autumn / winter season.
Kent
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together...
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
Hi folks! Next week's The Forum Live session will be dedicated to an AGM follow-up if it is felt that extra discussion or question time after the meeting has ended on Sunday afternoon, would be useful.
If not, we'll run one of our usual, popular debates - topic to be decided nearer the time.
Join the session on the night over in the BN shop (and look out for news about the next guest from the USA...)
AGM Reminder and Vote on Commercialisation of British Naturism
We would like to remind members that the British Naturism AGM takes place this Sunday, and not to forget to register if you wish to attend and, more importantly, to vote.
This is particularly important this year as there is a member-led motion that will change the basic structure of British Naturism if it succeeds and instructs the first step away from a member-led organisation to a commercial one.
Regardless of whether you support or oppose the idea of replacing elected Directors with paid ones, do please use your vote. What we must avoid is such changes being made and people voicing an opinion once it is too late. So even if you don’t normally pay attention to the governance, this one is worth looking at as it is a big one.
You can book to join the AGM here:
https://shop.bn.org.uk/pages/agm-2023 and is free of charge.
Note: If you have not used the BN shop before, you will need to link your membership to your shop account so that we can verify that those attending are members. Instructions on how to do so can be found here:
https://www.bn.org.uk/guides/bn-shop/the-bn-shop-and-your-membership-discounts-r50/
Voting and the AGM
We will again use electronic voting for AGM motions and other significant matters. Details of motions and the voting system can be found here:
https://www.bn.org.uk/AGM2023
A discussion thread about the motions can be found here:
https://www.bn.org.uk/forums/topic/33023-agm-motions-2023/
Now that the nights are drawing in, we are eager to welcome you back to as many Naked Fitness sessions as you can manage!
Thanks to those who completed our survey, it was really helpful and led to some of the changes we are implementing now, and in the future. One thing that was really clear is how much you value Naked Fitness.
Our slightly-reduced summer schedule comes to an end later this week but we are pleased to announce new and returning sessions heading into Christmas and beyond.
Firstly, all current sessions remain at the same times with the same instructors. That includes sessions of yoga, GroovX, meditation and group fitness, through the week. In addition:
• Ballet Barre with Sarah will be returning on a Monday at 1pm
• A new low-intensity group fitness class will be starting at 6pm on a Wednesday with Roy
• Zumba will be returning on a Thursday evening at 6pm
All these new sessions start next week and are online and ready to book now!
Thanks again for all your support – we look forward to seeing you online.
If you have never been to a session or haven’t been for a while we'd like to encourage you to come back and feel the energy and positivity that Naked Fitness provides - make the time, get fit and stay healthy!
All the best
Mark, Georgia, Roy, Jooles, Katherine, Sarah, Ian & Amanda.
Sorry, folks, as mentioned in the ezine last week, there is a pre-AGM EC meeting tonight and so there won't be a Forum Live session.
News of the exciting interviews and topics coming up in the next few weeks to be announced soon!
We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next couple of weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
Wendover Walk
September 22
Join us for a 7 mile walk starting and finishing at Wendover.
Buckinghamshire
The Big Quiz
September 22
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Club Naturel Swim
September 22
Afternoon & evening swims.
Norfolk
Watford Swims
September 22
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
September 22
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Badminton at TANDO
September 23
Join us for Badminton or go for a run, petanque, spikeball etc.
Tyne & Wear
Spectrum Swim
September 23
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Chester Swim
September 23
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
Curry Night at TANDO
September 23
Join us for this curry night, visitors can camp or rent a caravan or chalet.
Tyne & Wear
GBSD Didcot Wave Pool
September 23
An indoor pool with a wave machine, an open event.
Oxfordshire
Skinny Dip
September 24
It attracted 1217 dippers last year to this great sunrise charity dip, booking essential.
Northumberland
Arundel Lido Dare 2 Bare
September 24
Will there be a BBQ?
West Sussex
Noah’s Ark Swim
September 24
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Prested Hall Swim
September 24
Pool, sauna, steam room, loungers, summer garden area plus licenced Bistro.
Essex
Glasgow Swim
September 24
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Walk & Skinny Dip
September 27
A clothing optional walk in the Lake District finishing with a skinny dip.
Cumbria
Aquasol Swim Bristol
September 27
We meet most Wednesdays at the Jubilee Pool
Avon
Natram walk Leith Hill
September 28
Join us for an 11 mile walk on Leith Hill near Dorking.
Surrey
Manchester Male Swim
September 28
Every Thursday evening but need to RSVP as numbers limited to 30 maximum.
Lancashire
Amsterdam Spa Break
September 29 to October 2
A Spa Break which includes hotel B&B plus a couple of trips to the city.
Holland
The Big Quiz
September 29
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Club Naturel Swim
September 29
Afternoon & evening swims.
Norfolk
Watford Swims
September 29
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
September 29
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Strangers in Between
September 30
A clothing optional theatre outing & meet the star of the show.
London
Worsley Swim
September 30
Enjoy warm pools for swimming & exercise, sauna & steam rooms & a lounge with refreshments.
Greater Manchester
Virtual Golf Night
September 30
Join us for Virtual golf plus food and a bar, for beginners to seasoned golf pros.
Buckinghamshire
Spectrum Swim
September 30
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Chester Swim
September 30
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
Southampton Swim
September 30
Open event at the Oaklands Pool.
Hampshire
Cardiff Sunday Meet Up
October 1
This is a friendly coffee meet up and is clothing optional.
Glamorgan
Swim at Seaford
October 1
Join us for this Sunday afternoon swim.
East Sussex
Ryedale Swim
October 1
Fortnightly swim at Derwent Pool.
Yorkshire
Noah’s Ark Swim
October 1
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Haddington Swim
October 1
With a 25m and children’s pools, sauna, steam room, sports hall and café.
East Lothian
Badminton Indoors
October 1
Join us for indoor badminton plus access to sauna and steam rooms or a swim, refreshments available.
East Lothian
The Potteries Swim
October 1
Join us at the Jubilee Baths for this evening swim.
Staffordshire
Glasgow Swim
October 1
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Plymouth Swim
October 2
A Monday evening swim in Plympton Pool, lane swimming as well as for the less energetic or just socialise.
Devon
The Chat
October 3
Join us for an hour of chat and banter.
Online
Aquasol Swim Bristol
October 4
Join us at the Jubilee Pool.
Avon
Manchester Male Swim
October 5
Every Thursday evening but need to RSVP as numbers limited to 30 maximum.
Lancashire
Club Naturel Swim
October 6
Join us for either an afternoon or evening swim, or even both.
Norfolk
Naked Fitsteps
October 6
Join Caroline for a 90 minute special with a chance to dance your way into the night after.
Derbyshire
The Big Quiz
October 6
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Watford Swims
October 6
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
October 6
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Sparkle Day
October 7
Spread some sparkle to raise funds for Brain Tumour Support & Macmillan Cancer Support.
Merseyside
Wirral Nats.
October 7
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
South Forest Swim
October 7
From 6.00pm, limited to 60 people so pre booking is recommended.
Nottinghamshire
Spectrum Swim
October 7
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Nothing On
October 7
Join us for a couple of hours in a warm, friendly and safe environment in the pool and seating area.
Lancashire
Noah’s Ark Swim
October 8
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Northampton Sun Group
October 8
We have access to 2 swimming pools and use of the sauna and steam rooms.
Northamptonshire
Prested Hall Swim
October 8
Swimming pool, sauna & steam rooms, poolside loungers & licenced restaurant/bistro.
Essex
Glasgow Swim
October 8
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Dover Naturists Swim
October 8
Join us for our first swim on the autumn / winter season.
Kent
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together...
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
'As the new stewards of Playa Sonrisa, the idyllic Naturist beach resort in Mexico, we're truly honored to step into this role and continue the legacy built by Murph & Cindy. Their remarkable contributions to the Naturist/Nudist Community have left an indelible mark, and we're fully committed to upholding their high standards', say Blaney and Steve.
We extend a heartfelt invitation for you to take a break from the demands of modern life and consider Playa Sonrisa for your upcoming vacation. To sweeten the deal, we're thrilled to offer an exclusive 10% discount on your next reservation (new reservations only), applicable when booked by October 31, 2023. Just use the code "BN" during your booking process. Moreover, for those who choose to book using the "BN" code and plan a stay with us between November 1, 2023 and January 30, 2024, we're excited to treat you to a complimentary 50-minute beach massage. And yes, this enticing offer can be combined with any ongoing seasonal promotions.
The momentum of enhancements at Playa Sonrisa continues with these exciting updates:
First...
We're excited to introduce our freshly revamped website: https://playasonrisamexico.com. While we're retaining the convenience of booking through email or WhatsApp, our new online portal promises an even smoother booking experience. To provide you with greater payment flexibility, we're now accepting booking deposits via PayPal, Credit Card, or Zelle (US only).
Second...
Prepare your taste buds for a delightful journey at our reimagined restaurant, now known as Tiki Teal's! Recognizing your love for Cindy & Murph's culinary masterpieces, we're proud to introduce a full-time chef who will continue their legacy. Elevating the dining experience further, we're adding a brick oven and smoker to our kitchen. Join us on most Saturdays for an extraordinary culinary affair accompanied by live musical performances, open to both guests and the public.
Third...
Thrilling aquatic adventures are making a comeback as we reintroduce Naked Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Trips in collaboration with XCT Dive Shop in Xcalak. Additionally, we're elevating your lodging choices with renovations to the Garden Bungalows. To cater to your water exploration dreams, we've expanded the "Ask First Marina" with three new double kayaks.
But wait, there's still more to unfold! Our commitment to the Naturist community remains steadfast, and our goal is to ensure Playa Sonrisa remains a standout sanctuary for those seeking an escape from the modern world.
Join us as we embark on this exhilarating journey, embracing the essence of Playa Sonrisa while ushering in exciting new enhancements. Your idyllic retreat awaits.
At last! We're delighted to announce the return of BN's Big online night quiz this Friday 22 September!
It starts at 7.30 pm and our first quiz setter will be Steph so be prepared for a varied and entertaining quiz.
After the quiz is over feel free to stay and chat and catch up on all our summer experiences.
Find out how to access the session over in the BN shop and join in the discussion on the members' forum (log ins required)
It's always terrific when non-Naturist venues get involved in the Great British Skinny Dip. Arundel Lido (pictured) is one of them and their next nude swim takes place this coming Sunday. It's also not a quick in-and-out, nor an inconvenient early morning or late night event but a four hour session from midday. Fantastic! Do give it your support if you can.
The season may be coming to an end, but we don't hibernate. There are many regular swims taking place around the country in the winter months - check out the BN calendar for details.
Don't find one in your area? Why not organise your own? We're happy to help!
We have a mammoth task ahead this weekend - moving and spreading topsoil for the new lawn at BN's very own site near St Albans. A number of our regular volunteers are away (sunning themselves) and so we are lower on numbers than usual!
If anyone fancies a day of wheelbarrowing top soil and wielding a rake then it would be great to welcome you. Working hours will be 10.00am to 3.00pm on both Saturday and Sunday.
If you can make it, please let me know - mark.walsh@bn.org.uk.
sunfolk.bn.org.uk
Photo by Ēriks Irmejs on Unsplash
The sun shone and there was a warm and gentle breeze for the first GBSD at Findhorn beach, writes organiser Alan.
Twenty-five people, men and women between the ages of 20s and 70s, made the journey for the event (e.g. from Berwick, Edinburgh, Ayr, Inverness) with several making a weekend of it to spend more time in this beautiful part of the country.
The sea was around 15°C (the warmest ever for this time of year) so our dippers were keen to get in the water, with many staying in and chatting for over 20 mins. The event was very relaxed and sociable with many friends meeting in person for the first time. The group also inspired others along the beach to strip off and take to the water. Unfortunately no dolphins or seals this time.
I was inspired to set up the event because there were no GBSD events nearby! I deliberately kept this event low key to see how the venue worked out. It turned out to be ideal so watch out for the next event in 2024. The date will be announced much further ahead and there will be more publicity to ensure that it is bigger and even better.
With thanks to the Findhorn Dunes Trust for giving us permission to use this section of beach which they own. On the day, £137 was raised and this has been donated to the trust to enable them to continue to care for this fragile environment. The event was also endorsed by the Findhorn Village Conservation Company.
I'm proud of this one. Our subject matter means that it's not difficult for us to get attention paid to our activities and for us to be asked to comment on aspects of society and the stories of the day, and I deal with an average three or four approaches every week across the year. Our subject matter can also make people, authorities and big business nervous which hampers our progress somewhat with many obvious avenues to promotion closed to us.
It was particularly pleasing, therefore to be asked by marketing and production company Mob Kitchen to help them make four films for You Tube for their client Stella Artois. We've all praised the Stella adverts on TV and in the press for their unfiltered lager and their willingness to be associated with naked people and were delighted that they wanted to continue the theme.
We pitched in and found for them the majority of the people who would be involved and three out of the four locations - so much so that we get a mention in the films' descriptions on You Tube. Stella will be promoting it on social media and so please help by sharing the heck out of them on your accounts!
See the fourth film here - Cooking Au Naturel - Forage and check out parts 1, 2 and 3: Cooking Au Naturel - Swim - Cooking Au Naturel - Yoga - Cooking Au Naturel - Cycle
An interview with Kate Winslet by Vogue magazine earlier this week revealed some real insight into her history and her mindset. The interview was about her upcoming film, “Lee”, which not for the first time in her career includes nudity. However, the interview is far more insightful than just a promo attempt.
Winslet talks about how she has been body shamed throughout her career. This started in her breakthrough role in Titanic where she was targeted by directors and critics for doing a nude scene despite being “the wrong shape” and was told she should “settle for less”. Her reaction to this shaming was “I wasn’t going to take that shit from anyone” and she has been doing nude scenes throughout her career to stand up to such bullies.
We salute such commitment to body positivity. Many of us have experienced such scathing comments and know the harm such treatment does to our confidence and mental health. Young people in particular are suffering a body dysmorphia pandemic because parts of society tell them their own bodies are not good enough. It takes guts to stand up to such sneers on such a public stage as Winslet has done and we can all take inspiration from the way she has always fought for ownership of her body. There is no “wrong shape”. EveryBody is beautiful, it is our diversity that makes us magnificent as human beings.
So if you are being told that your body does not meet some arbitrary standard, remember that everybody is being told that, even movie stars and all that really matters is ourselves.
Stand up and be the incredible person that you are.
vogue.com/article/kate-winslet-lee-miller-october-cover-2023-interview
We like to bring you news stories of forthcoming events - it spreads the word, encourages more people to book and shows just how vibrant the Naturist scene is in the UK. However - I'm happy to say - there are far too many to promote them all individually and so here is a complete list of all the events happening over just the next couple of weeks. Enjoy! And don't forget that we are always looking for reports on great gatherings for the magazine and elsewhere...
90th Birthday Celebrations
September 15 to September 17
Liverpool Sun & Air is 90 this year, join us for a weekend of celebrations including a Gala Dinner.
Merseyside
Club Naturel Swim
September 15
Fridays alternating between afternoons & evening swims.
Norfolk
The Big Quiz
September 15
The Big Quiz returns, a few questions to test you & knowing the weight of a cow might be handy!
Online
Watford Swims
September 15
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
September 15
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Boules & Sport Melee
September 16 to September 17
Learn to play and join in the light hearted competition on Sunday. Other sports facilities available.
Buckinghamshire
GBSD Findhorn
September 16
Join us for the most northerly GBSD event where curious seals and dolphins pop by.
Moray
MNSC Swim Bury St Edmunds
September 16
A regular swim plus sauna and steam room.
Suffolk
GBSD Birmingham Swim
September 16
Spectrum swim meets most Saturdays at the Morris Centre
West Midlands
Chester Swim
September 16
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
South Forest Swim
September 16
NEW START TIME, limited numbers at this indoor pool complex with flume, children’s pool, sauna & Jacuzzi.
Nottinghamshire
Miniten Friendly Competition
September 17
A friendly competition so come along and have a go.
Merseyside
Ryedale Swim
September 17
Fortnightly swim at Derwent Pool.
Yorkshire
Nudie Dudie Swim
September 17
Afternoon swim at Llantwit Major Leisure Centre.
South Glamorgan
Noah’s Ark Swim
September 17
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Haddington Swim
September 17
With a 25m and children’s pools, sauna, steam room, sports hall and café.
East Lothian
Badminton Indoors
September 17
Join us for a game of badminton in Haddington plus access to the sauna, steam room and a swim!
East Lothian
The Potteries Swim
September 17
Join us for this evening swim at the Jubilee Baths.
Staffordshire
Glasgow Swim
September 17
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Plympton Pool Swim
September 18
Lane swimming or just socialise with friends
Devon
The Chat
September 19
Join us for an hour of chat and banter.
Online
Naked Cabaret
September 20
Naked performers, naked audience for this mystery line up of cabaret artists.
London
Aquasol Swim, Bristol
September 20
Swim at the Jubilee Pool in Bristol.
Avon
Walk from Cardington
September 21
A circular walk of about 9 miles with a number of moderate to steep climbs.
Shropshire
Manchester Male Swim
September 21
Every Thursday evening but need to RSVP as numbers limited to 30 maximum.
Lancashire
Wendover Walk
September 22
Join us for a 7 mile walk starting and finishing at Wendover.
Buckinghamshire
The Big Quiz
September 22
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Club Naturel Swim
September 22
Afternoon & evening swims.
Norfolk
Watford Swims
September 22
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
September 22
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Badminton at TANDO
September 23
Join us for Badminton or go for a run, petanque, spikeball etc.
Tyne & Wear
Spectrum Swim
September 23
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Chester Swim
September 23
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
Curry Night at TANDO
September 23
Join us for this curry night, visitors can camp or rent a caravan or chalet.
Tyne & Wear
GBSD Didcot Wave Pool
September 23
An indoor pool with a wave machine, an open event.
Oxfordshire
Skinny Dip
September 24
It attracted 1217 dippers last year to this great sunrise charity dip, booking essential.
Northumberland
Arundel Lido Dare 2 Bare
September 24
Will there be a BBQ?
West Sussex
Noah’s Ark Swim
September 24
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Prested Hall Swim
September 24
Pool, sauna, steam room, loungers, summer garden area plus licenced Bistro.
Essex
Glasgow Swim
September 24
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
Dover Naturists Swim
September 24
First swim of the autumn & winter season.
Kent
Aquasol Swim Bristol
September 27
We meet most Wednesdays at the Jubilee Pool
Avon
Natram walk Leith Hill
September 28
Join us for an 11 mile walk on Leith Hill near Dorking.
Surrey
Manchester Male Swim
September 28
Every Thursday evening but need to RSVP as numbers limited to 30 maximum.
Lancashire
Amsterdam Spa Break
September 29 to October 2
A Spa Break which includes hotel B&B plus a couple of trips to the city.
Holland
The Big Quiz
September 29
Test your knowledge in this friendly quiz.
Online
Club Naturel Swim
September 29
Afternoon & evening swims.
Norfolk
Watford Swims
September 29
Join us at our Friday night swim to enjoy 'The WNSC Friday Feel Good Factor'!
Hertfordshire
Naked Pub Night
September 29
INA & INF members welcome to our virtual bar to socialise with like-minded naturists.
Online
Strangers in Between
September 30
A clothing optional theatre outing & meet the star of the show.
London
Worsley Swim
September 30
Enjoy warm pools for swimming & exercise, sauna & steam rooms & a lounge with refreshments.
Greater Manchester
Virtual Golf Night
September 30
Join us for Virtual golf plus food and a bar, for beginners to seasoned golf pros.
Buckinghamshire
Spectrum Swim
September 30
Swim most Saturdays at the Morris Centre, Birmingham.
West Midlands
Chester Swim
September 30
A weekly swim with the friendly Wirral Naturist with a 25m pool, water slide, sauna & steam rooms.
Cheshire
Southampton Swim
September 30
Open event at the Oaklands Pool.
Hampshire
Cardiff Sunday Meet Up
October 1
This is a friendly coffee meet up and is clothing optional.
Glamorgan
Swim at Seaford
October 1
Join us for this Sunday afternoon swim.
East Sussex
Ryedale Swim
October 1
Fortnightly swim at Derwent Pool.
Yorkshire
Noah’s Ark Swim
October 1
Weekly Sunday swims plus extra weekly activities, including Yoga, Pilates and life drawing.
Surrey
Haddington Swim
October 1
With a 25m and children’s pools, sauna, steam room, sports hall and café.
East Lothian
Badminton Indoors
October 1
Join us for indoor badminton plus access to sauna and steam rooms or a swim, refreshments available.
East Lothian
The Potteries Swim
October 1
Join us at the Jubilee Baths for this evening swim.
Staffordshire
Glasgow Swim
October 1
The swim offers naturists use of a 21m pool, Turkish suite, steam room, saunas and relaxation areas.
Lanarkshire
My thanks to David Smith for putting the list together...
Photo by Hansjörg Keller on Unsplash
We've showcased member Richard's shows before and especially the performances where the audience are free to enjoy the show in the nude - including recently at the Edinburgh festival.
There's another chance coming up and a new show: Strangers in Between which is, 'a captivating Australian classic. This unmissable production delves into the complexities of identity and relationships, offering a mix of laughter and tears that will leave audiences deeply moved.'
The c-o opportunity is on the afternoon of 30 September in South London - tickets on sale now
We have three group holidays for British Naturism members currently booking (and are making plans for more in '24, so keep an eye out for announcements...)
All of our group holidays come with group leaders who are BN members, and a programme of activities.
First up is a weekend in Amsterdam and Zuiver Spa, later this month - only one room remaining!
Next month, we're off to Spain's El Portús - the Hacienda Montalvo studio apartments are sold out, but there are mobile homes available.
Finally (for now) there are only four bungalows available at Magnolias Natura, for April '24. Our picture shows the dunes at nearby Maspalomas beach.
Organiser Alan says, 'Join us at Findhorn East beach (postcode IV36 3AB) for the most northerly Great British Skinny Dip in the UK! This stunning location is at the end of a 7-mile beach to Burghead with views across the Moray Firth towards Caithness. Curious seals often come along to see what is happening and dolphins regularly visit the area.'
Let's make it an event to remember - more details here
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