Naturists fight under-18 swim ban

A naturist swimming club hopes to see the lifting of a ban on under-18s attending sessions.

The ban was imposed on the club, based at Manor Leisure Centre in Whittlesey, by Fenland District Council on advice from Cambs social services.

Malcolm Boura of British Naturism said: "The advice was in an ambiguous letter but we have clarified our situation.

"After discussing our child protection measures the letter was withdrawn and we hope the ban will now be lifted."

The club at the centre of the row has a large family membership and covers all ages from "nappies to 90s", according to Mr Boura.

Popular club

He said: "Under-18s have to be accompanied or we have to have written permission from parents or guardians for them to attend the sessions.

"The pool at Whittlesey is small but groups of up to 60 are not unusual. It is a popular club.

"This is in contrast to some of our larger groups of up to 160 at a session in some places in the region like Bedford."

Fenland District Council strategic director Brian Partridge said that he was seeking advice on risk assessments from the club and the district council.

"Following agreement on any necessary revisions to procedures, a decision on the ban will be made before the next club session scheduled for early May," he said.

Mr Boura said he expected a decision to be made on Thursday.