Beach ban for naturists

The owners of a beach in North Norfolk which has for years welcomed naturists says nudity has now got to stop after reports of indecent acts taking place.

But naturists who use Holkham beach are not happy about the decision as Malcolm Robertson reports.

A naturist spokesman said a minority had spoiled it for everyone after visitors to a popular Norfolk beauty spot were told to keep their clothes on.

Naturists are to be banned at Holkham beach after managers at the estate became aware of a growing number of sexual offences being reported to police.

The miles of white sand at Holkham have long been shared by families, dog walkers and nudists as well as hosting an annual beach ride by the Queen's Household Cavalry.

Andrew Welch, a spokesman for British Naturism, accepted that a minority had spoilt it for everyone else but said the move was unlikely to be successful.

"It's like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut," he said.

The naturist section of popular Norfolk beach will close next month following complaints about anti-social behaviour.

The Holkham Estate has decided to close the area on the western section of Holkham beach.

It follows discussions with police after complaints about sexual offences being committed there. The section will close on July 1.

Sarah Henderson, conservation manager, said: “It is sad we have been forced to take this step due to the persistent anti-social behaviour of a minority of people.”