Naked bike riders take to the streets (From The Argus)
Get involved: Send your news, views, pictures and video by texting SUPIC to 80360 or email us.
Naked bike riders take to the streets
4:33pm Sunday 13th June 2010 in News
Naked bike riders take to the streets
Brighton put on its cheekiest face today as more than 1,000 naked cyclists took to the streets.
The bare as you dare cyclists brushed aside calls for a ban on the event to take part in the city's fifth annual Naked Bike Ride.
Riders of all ages and in varying states of undress took to the roads to protest against oil dependency and the vulnerability of cyclists.
There was a carnival atmosphere at The Level as cyclists from all over Sussex gathered to don body paint or find other colourful ways of preserving their modesty.
Sussex Police said the event passed off peacefully with no incidents or arrests.
Comments(120)
Old Ladys Gin
says...
4:58pm Sun 13 Jun 10
TheInsider
says...
5:00pm Sun 13 Jun 10
After seeing the dirty mayor of Brighton in some grubby groping Benny Hill antics this week, Councillor Mears should get her own house in order before saying naked bike riding is seedy.
jiving
says...
5:36pm Sun 13 Jun 10
Tom V
says...
5:48pm Sun 13 Jun 10
smalltowngirl
says...
5:55pm Sun 13 Jun 10
Fercri Sakes
says...
5:58pm Sun 13 Jun 10
jiving wrote:I hope you told her that she should be ashamed of nudity as it's disgusting, perverted and unnatural. I mean, if God wanted us to be naked he wouldn't have invented child labour sweatshops in China that can make affordable clothes for her to wear.
yes i was 'fortunate' enough to walk right through that...with the 4 year old niece...completly forgot it was gong on then had to try to explain, in 4 year old speak, what was going on...!
Please tell me what kind of perverted acts these 'cyclists' were doing. I bet they were up to all kinds of despicable behavior rather than just cycling whilst wearing no clothes.
Seriously, I hope you told here they were trying to make people aware of the current vulnerability of cyclists on the roads, our dependence on oil and that people shouldn't be ashamed of their bodies. That's what you did tell her didn't you? Or else you may end up giving her a whole ton of body issues to deal with later in life.
katiebear
says...
6:12pm Sun 13 Jun 10
Rather than move the families away from the cyclists on Hove lawns, why didn't the police arrest them?
AdamHvCntrl
says...
6:14pm Sun 13 Jun 10
Page the Oracle
says...
6:37pm Sun 13 Jun 10
Boobies!
Snigger.........
security word "wear-vest"
I KID YOU NOT!!
Angryoldman
says...
6:46pm Sun 13 Jun 10
This is what makes Brighton a cut above the rest.
Nikolai Von Ruden
says...
7:15pm Sun 13 Jun 10
katiebear wrote:Probably because "Indecent Exposure" no longer exists, so the riders weren't breaking any law.
Do our police no longer charge naked people with indecent exposure? Rather than move the families away from the cyclists on Hove lawns, why didn't the police arrest them?
However, exposure with intent to shock *is* against the law. I didn't see anybody deliberately trying to shock.
It's a bit of fun but at the same time, reinforcing a serious message.
yorkie44
says...
8:02pm Sun 13 Jun 10
stan bailey
says...
8:05pm Sun 13 Jun 10
jiving
says...
8:41pm Sun 13 Jun 10
Fercri Sakes wrote:actually i weant for the, 'they have just got out the bath and someone stole their clothes so they jumped on their bikes to chase after them!
jiving wrote: yes i was 'fortunate' enough to walk right through that...with the 4 year old niece...completly forgot it was gong on then had to try to explain, in 4 year old speak, what was going on...!I hope you told her that she should be ashamed of nudity as it's disgusting, perverted and unnatural. I mean, if God wanted us to be naked he wouldn't have invented child labour sweatshops in China that can make affordable clothes for her to wear. Please tell me what kind of perverted acts these 'cyclists' were doing. I bet they were up to all kinds of despicable behavior rather than just cycling whilst wearing no clothes. Seriously, I hope you told here they were trying to make people aware of the current vulnerability of cyclists on the roads, our dependence on oil and that people shouldn't be ashamed of their bodies. That's what you did tell her didn't you? Or else you may end up giving her a whole ton of body issues to deal with later in life.
i thought it was quite imaginitive!
p.s. why is nudity dusgusting...r u telling me u wear your clothes to sleep, bathe etc...and moreover, have worn the same set of clothes since the day u were born?
why would i tell her it is disgsuting, its a natural part of growing up to learn about her body and to be comfortable in it...
fool
dogs-ball
says...
9:07pm Sun 13 Jun 10
Fercri Sakes
says...
9:51pm Sun 13 Jun 10
jiving wrote:I think my sarcasm may have gone over your head there :)
Fercri Sakes wrote:actually i weant for the, 'they have just got out the bath and someone stole their clothes so they jumped on their bikes to chase after them!
jiving wrote: yes i was 'fortunate' enough to walk right through that...with the 4 year old niece...completly forgot it was gong on then had to try to explain, in 4 year old speak, what was going on...!I hope you told her that she should be ashamed of nudity as it's disgusting, perverted and unnatural. I mean, if God wanted us to be naked he wouldn't have invented child labour sweatshops in China that can make affordable clothes for her to wear. Please tell me what kind of perverted acts these 'cyclists' were doing. I bet they were up to all kinds of despicable behavior rather than just cycling whilst wearing no clothes. Seriously, I hope you told here they were trying to make people aware of the current vulnerability of cyclists on the roads, our dependence on oil and that people shouldn't be ashamed of their bodies. That's what you did tell her didn't you? Or else you may end up giving her a whole ton of body issues to deal with later in life.
i thought it was quite imaginitive!
p.s. why is nudity dusgusting...r u telling me u wear your clothes to sleep, bathe etc...and moreover, have worn the same set of clothes since the day u were born?
why would i tell her it is disgsuting, its a natural part of growing up to learn about her body and to be comfortable in it...
fool
jiving
says...
9:58pm Sun 13 Jun 10
Fercri Sakes wrote:oh fear not...i get your 'sarcasm' i just chose not to 'laugh' at it
jiving wrote:I think my sarcasm may have gone over your head there :)Fercri Sakes wrote:actually i weant for the, 'they have just got out the bath and someone stole their clothes so they jumped on their bikes to chase after them! i thought it was quite imaginitive! p.s. why is nudity dusgusting...r u telling me u wear your clothes to sleep, bathe etc...and moreover, have worn the same set of clothes since the day u were born? why would i tell her it is disgsuting, its a natural part of growing up to learn about her body and to be comfortable in it... fooljiving wrote: yes i was 'fortunate' enough to walk right through that...with the 4 year old niece...completly forgot it was gong on then had to try to explain, in 4 year old speak, what was going on...!I hope you told her that she should be ashamed of nudity as it's disgusting, perverted and unnatural. I mean, if God wanted us to be naked he wouldn't have invented child labour sweatshops in China that can make affordable clothes for her to wear. Please tell me what kind of perverted acts these 'cyclists' were doing. I bet they were up to all kinds of despicable behavior rather than just cycling whilst wearing no clothes. Seriously, I hope you told here they were trying to make people aware of the current vulnerability of cyclists on the roads, our dependence on oil and that people shouldn't be ashamed of their bodies. That's what you did tell her didn't you? Or else you may end up giving her a whole ton of body issues to deal with later in life.
Nyberg
says...
10:00pm Sun 13 Jun 10
To those that have problem with 4 year olds seeing naked people - you need to get out more! It's normal.
Why is it that most of people that feel they have to get naked in public are also the ugliest specimens of humanity?
Could we have some attractive women next year please? (and if that's sexist I don't care).
davyboy
says...
10:31pm Sun 13 Jun 10
dogs-ball wrote:same here, dogs-ball. why is it cyclists cannot understand road signs and traffic lights? bus display was good though. nice day for it.
I did not see this bike ride - I took 3 kids to see the Brighton & Hove Bus display on Madeira Drive - where we spent most of our time trying not to get knocked over by people on bikes! Madeira drive was closed to traffic - as were the cycle lanes. Try telling this to the cyclists who chose to ignore this and just carried on regardless once they had gone around the cordons. Talk about an arrogant bunch of tozzers! Password: size-rate!
lanija
says...
10:35pm Sun 13 Jun 10
nicole/bob
says...
5:59am Mon 14 Jun 10
You bunch of weirdos keep banging on about the "vulnerability of cyclists"...well why don't you try to cycle more responsibly in the first place...a few examples:
1. Have been cut up many times by crazy bikers overtaking on both the left and right hand side at the same time
2. We see cyclists riding on the pavement all the time
3. Have been run down by bikers on several occasions when walking the dogs along the promenade which clearly states "no cycling"
4. Really worried to see these cycle nutters with their kids strapped into the back of extended bikes, as if a tiny flag is going to protect them from being flattened by the next passing bus!
5. Have cyclists never heard of the Highway code?...eg when traffic lights are on red, you're supposed to stop, or the fact that it's a good idea to actually have a light on your bike when it gets dark?
I could go on...really do suggest that you people do something more productive with your lives rather than prancing about like this...you are both obscene and pathetic at the same time and, I fear, something of a cause for concern!
lorrie2
says...
6:48am Mon 14 Jun 10
Nyberg
says...
7:52am Mon 14 Jun 10
lanija wrote:I'm sorry for what happened to your child, but I'm afraid your remarks don't make much sense to me.
Most parents are not against children seeing naked bodies, but put your self in the position of a raped childs parent, that alone was traumatising for the child, then to have this event when in the park he is in was as bad as the day it happened. So instead of giving people a gobbin off think before you speak , there are concequences to your actions. All we ask for is a bit of respect, especially in a childrens play park.
Nudity is not the same thing as rape, and it is possible to be naked without any sexual overtones, as in this bike ride.
Turing Test
says...
8:20am Mon 14 Jun 10
nicole/bob wrote:"Barely incomprehensible", eh. Well done for making such an effort to not understand.
I have rarely seen such a load of barely incomprehensible perverted drivel on any subject, let alone one such as this which concerns basic public decency. What sort of people are you?!
You bunch of weirdos keep banging on about the "vulnerability of cyclists"...well why don't you try to cycle more responsibly in the first place...a few examples:
1. Have been cut up many times by crazy bikers overtaking on both the left and right hand side at the same time
2. We see cyclists riding on the pavement all the time
3. Have been run down by bikers on several occasions when walking the dogs along the promenade which clearly states "no cycling"
4. Really worried to see these cycle nutters with their kids strapped into the back of extended bikes, as if a tiny flag is going to protect them from being flattened by the next passing bus!
5. Have cyclists never heard of the Highway code?...eg when traffic lights are on red, you're supposed to stop, or the fact that it's a good idea to actually have a light on your bike when it gets dark?
I could go on...really do suggest that you people do something more productive with your lives rather than prancing about like this...you are both obscene and pathetic at the same time and, I fear, something of a cause for concern!
So what exactly do points 1-5 have to do with the subject of basic public decency?
Gubbins
says...
8:30am Mon 14 Jun 10
katiebear wrote:They are bone idle and only pick on easy targets. How dare the police even think about enforcing the law in 'free-brighton' ? After all, the gay community and fringe pressure groups do have more real influence than any other authority in this city so stop moaning or move !
Do our police no longer charge naked people with indecent exposure? Rather than move the families away from the cyclists on Hove lawns, why didn't the police arrest them?
Pat cham
says...
9:06am Mon 14 Jun 10
Gubbins wrote:Exactly right - The Police should have filled Brighton Custody with between 300 and 100 cyclists.... and there bikes !!! Completely justified. Are you mad Katiebear ? Can you imagine how that would have gone, how many Police would have been required, how much it would cost?? Get a life and stop blaming the Police.
katiebear wrote:They are bone idle and only pick on easy targets. How dare the police even think about enforcing the law in 'free-brighton' ? After all, the gay community and fringe pressure groups do have more real influence than any other authority in this city so stop moaning or move !
Do our police no longer charge naked people with indecent exposure? Rather than move the families away from the cyclists on Hove lawns, why didn't the police arrest them?
another scoffer
says...
9:34am Mon 14 Jun 10
cafedelpaul
says...
9:34am Mon 14 Jun 10
I have just read an article in this mornings' Argus & am amazed at
your comments on the naked cycle race.
Having lived here with my wife for 5 years, we love this amusing &
very funny naked race in a city, so famous for it's diversity &
multi-cultural friendly atmosphere.
Brighton is special to my wife & I, and may this city of festivals
continue to amuse all tourists & news editors.
Almost everyday I read national & INTERNATIONAL newspapers & Brighton
pictures or news articles on a daily basis.
Brighton is renowned for it's various festival's & attracts so much
different types of tourists.
You & Brighton Council are literally shooting yourself in your foot by
making such negative comments.
I sometimes feel that the councillors are living in a political cell a
galaxy away from normal everyday life in Brighton.
Or, worst of all, making up the bullet points of political & council
activity to justify your taxpayer wages.
PLEASE STEP OUT INTO THE REAL & QUITE BEAUTIFUL EVERYDAY BRIGHTON TO
GET A FEEL FOR WHY MY WIFE & I NEVER WANT TO LEAVE!
Angryoldman
says...
9:35am Mon 14 Jun 10
lumen
says...
9:45am Mon 14 Jun 10
Angryoldman
says...
10:00am Mon 14 Jun 10
thelastword
says...
10:49am Mon 14 Jun 10
jc897
says...
1:10pm Mon 14 Jun 10
davyboy wrote:Re the bus event:
dogs-ball wrote: I did not see this bike ride - I took 3 kids to see the Brighton & Hove Bus display on Madeira Drive - where we spent most of our time trying not to get knocked over by people on bikes! Madeira drive was closed to traffic - as were the cycle lanes. Try telling this to the cyclists who chose to ignore this and just carried on regardless once they had gone around the cordons. Talk about an arrogant bunch of tozzers! Password: size-rate!same here, dogs-ball. why is it cyclists cannot understand road signs and traffic lights? bus display was good though. nice day for it.
There were no signs on the cycleway eastbound. There may have been signs on the road, but as the cycleway is on the opposite pavement no cyclists would have seen them. The first thing I knew about the cycleway being closed was when I got to the east end of Madeira Drive, where the cycle lane was blocked by a large sign facing the other way.
If you are looking for someone to blame then blame the organisers not the cyclists that are using the cycle lane that was built to take them off pavements and busy roads.
Well done to all naked cyclists campaigning for more routes like this.
Brigadier Monty
says...
1:14pm Mon 14 Jun 10
lorrie2 wrote:I totally agree. Whilst I was a little shocked to see this last year, it's all in good spirits and makes for good debate and conversation about it too and this is what Brighton is about, free, liberal people expressing their feelings and doing something a little wacky. So what the heck, let it happen next year too. The council are always on the bandwagon when they are going to see little or no financial gain, that is all they care about, lining their own pockets and filling up the coucil coffers with money to waste on expenses and yet more pointless wasteful schemes oh and of course to top up their nice bonuses.
The council only disapprove of this event as it doesnt make them any revenue,They dont care about people walking around half naked at pride as it make them some dosh!
Gubbins
says...
1:40pm Mon 14 Jun 10
Hawker101
says...
1:47pm Mon 14 Jun 10
Page the Oracle
says...
1:49pm Mon 14 Jun 10
Gubbins wrote:You'd probably find that 'the majority of residents' really don't care and therefore give their approval by a non-vote of apathy.
Bring on the day when we elect our police chiefs. This problem would never have occurred unless the majority of residents approved.
I really don't see what the problem is. It was not done to shock but to raise awareness. I can think of more traditional & (& I appreciate that I am only speaking for myself) appropriate ways to raise awareness but it will be a sad day for everyone when the police interpret what is and what is not morally acceptable. This was a lawful demonstration and we should all be proud that we are able to host such events in this free & democratic country.
It's not perfect by any stretch of the imagination but try doing a naked cycle ride in Tehran, or even Alabama!
puddingandpi
says...
2:13pm Mon 14 Jun 10
Apparently, Germans don't have that dream because, for a German, being seen naked is not the worst thing that can happen to them.
Here in Britain, it is. A bunch of naked & nearly naked people isn't "disgusting" or "obscene".
I'm a child victim & I feel uncomfortable around nudity & semi nudity - that's my problem. Being around naked & nearly naked people under those circumstances is helpful. It shows that nakedness need not be threatening, that not all men are rapists & not all penises are weapons.
I *love* Brighton!
sheppardmeg3
says...
2:47pm Mon 14 Jun 10
Brian Z Sewers
says...
3:08pm Mon 14 Jun 10
yorkie44
says...
4:25pm Mon 14 Jun 10
Savingwhales
says...
4:37pm Mon 14 Jun 10
It's sad that so many people find the human body so repulsive and should be hidden away. No wonder people are so messed up about themselves.
I am both a driver and a cyclist and talk of dangerous cyclists in Brighton is a terrible exaggeration. I myself got knocked off my bike by a car, that was coming out of a give way onto a main road and did not once look in the direction of on coming traffic, and even as I lay across his bonnet, he looked at me as if to say "What on earth are you doing on my car?". Perhaps a few lazy sods should try getting out and walking once in a while, taking the bike or bus - unless you're suggesting that all car drivers in the city 'need' to drive?
The bike is brilliant in every way
Nyberg
says...
4:52pm Mon 14 Jun 10
puddingandpi wrote:A really excellent post, in my view.
You know that dream where you're naked at work or on stage or wherever? Apparently, Germans don't have that dream because, for a German, being seen naked is not the worst thing that can happen to them. Here in Britain, it is. A bunch of naked & nearly naked people isn't "disgusting" or "obscene". I'm a child victim & I feel uncomfortable around nudity & semi nudity - that's my problem. Being around naked & nearly naked people under those circumstances is helpful. It shows that nakedness need not be threatening, that not all men are rapists & not all penises are weapons. I *love* Brighton!
I suppose, at the end of the day, you would have to be living without access to tv, the radio, newspapers and the internet to NOT have known the ride was taking place.
If public nudity bothers you that much - STAY AT HOME!
It only lasted an hour or so. Surely we can all be tolerant enough for that short length of time.
It's not like Pride - which goes on all weekend....
Savingwhales
says...
4:57pm Mon 14 Jun 10
Nyberg wrote:Don't get them started on Pride. Rumour has it that this city is godless too :)
puddingandpi wrote:A really excellent post, in my view.
You know that dream where you're naked at work or on stage or wherever? Apparently, Germans don't have that dream because, for a German, being seen naked is not the worst thing that can happen to them. Here in Britain, it is. A bunch of naked & nearly naked people isn't "disgusting" or "obscene". I'm a child victim & I feel uncomfortable around nudity & semi nudity - that's my problem. Being around naked & nearly naked people under those circumstances is helpful. It shows that nakedness need not be threatening, that not all men are rapists & not all penises are weapons. I *love* Brighton!
I suppose, at the end of the day, you would have to be living without access to tv, the radio, newspapers and the internet to NOT have known the ride was taking place.
If public nudity bothers you that much - STAY AT HOME!
It only lasted an hour or so. Surely we can all be tolerant enough for that short length of time.
It's not like Pride - which goes on all weekend....
Dr Beat
says...
6:04pm Mon 14 Jun 10
Nyberg wrote:I thought there were some extremely attractive naked women getting on their bikes on Sunday. Some of the boys weren't bad, either.
Really.... I'm so boooooored by nudity trying to make some sort of social point. To those that have problem with 4 year olds seeing naked people - you need to get out more! It's normal. Why is it that most of people that feel they have to get naked in public are also the ugliest specimens of humanity? Could we have some attractive women next year please? (and if that's sexist I don't care).
What's not to like?
kemptownmassive
says...
6:25pm Mon 14 Jun 10
UglyAmerican
says...
7:11pm Mon 14 Jun 10
.
A naked cyclist is one of the tamer things a child might see on any given day.
pinkflipflop32
says...
7:23pm Mon 14 Jun 10
If the event goes ahead next year, then we will be there.
Brunswicker
says...
8:40pm Mon 14 Jun 10
pinkflipflop32 wrote:Exactly. We did the ride as well and had a brilliant time. By far the majority of the public were enjoying it and with the body paint messages, posters and giving out leaflets along the way, the message of what it was all about certainly worked.
Me and my partner had a fantastic time doing the bike ride this year. It was great to see that the majority of people on the streets seemed to find the event acceptable. There were a huge amount of spectators laughing, waving and clapping us in support. I know it's not everybody's cup to tea, and it is important that we respect the views of those that don't wish to see our naked bodies, but provided the activity is lawful (which it is) then complaints need to be kept in perspective.
If the event goes ahead next year, then we will be there.
I can't see one negative aspect to the bike ride. It hits all the right spots. A sound message, a carnival atmosphere, the breaking down of barriers for both the bikers and the public, another reason to enjoy Brighton and a right laugh for everybody.
Christophe Hawtree
says...
8:56pm Mon 14 Jun 10
Meanwhile, word is that readers will be encouraged to visit the Jubilee Library naked so that they are in keeping with the level of the book stock.
At the end I swam in the sea with a former Councillor, and she agreed that after the first plunge it is in fact rather warm just now. I recommend getting in there. It's free, unless the Tories decide to privatise the sea, and one wouldn't put is past them.
Baldseagull
says...
9:26pm Mon 14 Jun 10
sheppardmeg3 wrote:Socially it may be unacceptable but no law is broken simply by being naked.
Why don 't cyclist grow up !! No other protesters would be allowed to get away it ,try stripping off outside the police station as a protest ,and you would soon be arrested.
p a t r i c k
says...
12:26am Tue 15 Jun 10
Isn't it amazing how some people are shocked by seeing the human body?
There is so much advertising showing a fantasy of what humans look like and then when real humans show themselves on bicycles people want to cover them up.
I think this naked bike ride is a great thing and I think we need many more people cycling clothed or not in Brighton & Hove.
In this nice summer weather surely it is good to get out of those horrid stuffy cars.
stan bailey
says...
7:06am Tue 15 Jun 10
shopliftingadulteress
says...
8:35am Tue 15 Jun 10
Tye
says...
10:05am Tue 15 Jun 10
Giving half a million quid from the pension fund to keep someone from talking is pretty obscene
what do YOU think Mary?
care to comment?
nicole/bob
says...
11:30am Tue 15 Jun 10
Tye
says...
4:23pm Tue 15 Jun 10
nicole/bob wrote:after you with the magnifying glass
Totally agree with the retired policewoman...this was not "just a harmless peace of fun", in fact the reverse and will naturally attract all kinds of weirdo perverts. Pity the Argus doesn't show a picture of THIS year's ride on this site (the one depicted above is actually from a previous year!) the reality though is captured perfectly on page 3 of Yesterday's Argus...just take a peek at the two poseurs on the left!!!
security password
deny-wood
HONESTLY!
Turing Test
says...
7:09pm Tue 15 Jun 10
stan bailey wrote:Just confirms what I have always thought about people called Stan. Reactionary bigots that always tar everyone with the same brush, scant regard for difference
just confirms what I have always thought about cyclists. Exhibitionists that always do what they want, scant regard for others
Turing Test
says...
7:35pm Tue 15 Jun 10
nicole/bob wrote:Have you considered the possibility that "shopliftingadultere
Totally agree with the retired policewoman...this was not "just a harmless peace of fun", in fact the reverse and will naturally attract all kinds of weirdo perverts. Pity the Argus doesn't show a picture of THIS year's ride on this site (the one depicted above is actually from a previous year!) the reality though is captured perfectly on page 3 of Yesterday's Argus...just take a peek at the two poseurs on the left!!!
ss" isn't *actually* a retired policewoman but is in fact "pretending" to be CI Sharon Rowe (a rather sick joke in view of what happened to her lover)?
Your credulity is as pronounced as your prudishness; your opinions as valuable as your spelling.
"Peace of fun", eh.
Wayne Reed
says...
8:13pm Tue 15 Jun 10
Think about it. Don’t rush to conclusions. You’ll have time enough to reflect upon this next time you’re stuck in a tail-back of traffic, just a few miles from home, wishing you’d left the car in the garage, and were cycling in sunshine and fresh air.
A first time, apprehensive, naked rider, I thought it a splendid piece of ‘choreographed anarchy’ - to the credit of Brighton and its police force. I heard cheers and saw smiling faces – some smiling at me. I’m sorry if the real message was largely lost, but I’ll be back next year, when I will try to speak a little more plainly.
Morrissey
says...
9:05pm Tue 15 Jun 10
The only thing that disturbed me were the number of lone fully clothed middle aged men loitering around with cam-corders on the nudist beach afterwards! I was tempted to go up and ask 'So what exactly are you filming this for?' and 'Wouldn't it be polite to ask someone if they mind you standing there filming them?'
But all in all a great day and I look forward to taking part next year!
nicole/bob
says...
9:34pm Tue 15 Jun 10
Actually, as a private individual, Mary Mears has as much right as anyone else not be caused offence. 'If' what you are saying is true, why were these two participants not immediately arrested by the police?
It also confirms my suspicions, judging by everything I have heard over the past couple of weeks from supporters of this obscene event, that most of them are nasty, sinister and vindictive individuals.
I used to have a certain amount of empathy for cyclists. Actually I am not keen on cars myself for very good personal reasons. Although I am not a cyclist myself, I tried to highlight a real and obvious serious danger to cyclists on our roads. Of course the participants of the naked bike ride would not have spotted it, as 'safety and the vulnerability of cyclists' is the last thing on their mind. They really are a combination of perverts and anachists prepared to break all laws (including the highway code) and values of a decent, civilized society, with a few 'air heads' as followers and supporters. Their real agenda is, it would appear, a much darker and sinister one.
The photograph of the two naked men on page 3 of the Argus, 14 June, astutely taken by an Argus photographer, epitomizes what this event is all about. I 'nearly' feel sorry and embarrassed for the two individuals in question, as I do not believe in making it personal and attacking people who may not fully realize how they are going to be perceived by the public at large. So I will not elaborate on this...
All in all, what a sad bunch of disgruntled people you are, with no moral compass, trying to take on, of all things, the oil companies! These companies - as if they care - must be really chucking and could not have dreamt of a better counter-attack themselves. (I believe this a worldwide event!).
What have you actually achieved, apart from insulting our Council Leader and having alienated yourselves from decent, law-abiding local residents? I shall never look at a cyclist in the same way again...
Morrissey
says...
10:11pm Tue 15 Jun 10
Dear Nicole/Bob: The more people ride bikes the less people buy oil, hitting oil companies the only place they care about, in the wallet.
I presume you think you are highly moral and concerned about society.. so do you side with the oil companies or people who want a greener, safer would for everyone?
The two riders you refer to were not arrested as a) no one complained b) they are viewing a personal opinion.. are are you against freedom of speech and expression as well?
You come across like a bigoted prude who wishes for the return of the Victorian age and all the misery, injustice and double standards that went with it!
Nudity is not any more connected with paedophilia than having a bath or the most everyday married heterosexual couple making love in there own home.. or perhaps that too is obscene and disgusting to you as well?
Wayne Reed
says...
10:13pm Tue 15 Jun 10
Gubbins
says...
10:37pm Tue 15 Jun 10
"I have rarely seen such a load of barely incomprehensible perverted drivel on any subject, let alone one such as this which concerns basic public decency. What sort of people are you?!"
Totally agree - weird to say the least.
Morrissey
says...
10:56pm Tue 15 Jun 10
Despite Nicole/Bobs view that we are all perverts and anarchists I am in fact a law abiding, happily married man who works in the day as a traffic warden (ooo anarchy!).
On Sunday I met many friendly people on the ride and they came from all walks of life and backgrounds, bonded together by some commonly held beliefs and a will to have a fun day and make a point whilst doing it.
All lovely people.
nicole/bob
says...
9:51am Wed 16 Jun 10
Page the Oracle
says...
10:03am Wed 16 Jun 10
nicole/bob wrote:Hello Pot.
You know, what I find most offensive about these weirdo nude cycle freaks is their sheer arrogance and total contempt for anyone who has sufficient moral values to complain about their obscene antics. I really do wonder just what sort of sad people they are when they do not even have the good grace, or intelligence to understand that their perverted actions actually upset and offend a great number of ordinary decent people. Talk about fascist! Are they also so completely thick, intolerant and insensitive of other peoples' views and opinions on other issues in their own pathetic personal lives I wonder?,
Hello Kettle.
What colour are we today?
Oooooh, let me think. Dark grey, perhaps?
Wayne Reed
says...
10:21am Wed 16 Jun 10
‘Basic public decency’ begins with a grasp of common politeness. The ‘moral high ground’ of debate requires qualification. A degree of experience walking/peddling in another man’s moccasins (with or without clothes?!) is a good one. Sound reasoning and good penmanship are the way to win friends here – not foaming at the mouth.
His final comment really doesn’t dignify a response – he clearly wasn’t there. The people of Brighton were hugely supportive, and took the event on the spirit in which it was meant.
Perhaps Nicole/Bob needs to lie down for a while and reflect upon his words, because he is currently giving an abysmal impression of himself, and any standard he endeavours to support. Is it not time for ‘the other side’ to bring on a competant spokesman?
nicole/bob
says...
11:24am Wed 16 Jun 10
Just why do you and your ilk find it necessary to come all the way down to Brighton to expose yourselves in public...why don't you do this in Crawley instead?
Wayne Reed
says...
12:43pm Wed 16 Jun 10
Unfortunately, I think the rest of the world has moved on from this topic, and that there are precious few left to hear our merry banter. My wish - a wish shared I’m sure by many of my perverted, exhibitionist, & free-thinking accomplices - is that your life one day becomes a happier place, and you find comfort within it.
For now I can only leave you with your triumph. I did indeed commit a spelling mistake. If only everything wrong in this world could be corrected by pressing a button like Spellcheck, hey?
Steady on. Then I’d never have an excuse to come down to Brighton and ‘get me kit orf!’
Morrissey
says...
8:31pm Wed 16 Jun 10
nicole/bob wrote:If you wrongly believe nudity offends most people then why do you think it would be better to have the bike ride in Crawley? Do you not care if the people of Crawley are (supposedly) offended?
Wayne...thank you for those kind words...what makes you think I'm neither a cyclist nor motorist? Also find it doubly ironic that you can't even spell the word competent!
Just why do you and your ilk find it necessary to come all the way down to Brighton to expose yourselves in public...why don't you do this in Crawley instead?
Brighton is well known as an open minded and cosmoplitan place which host several carnival style events and is a town where the Council promotes cycling, and is a great place to visit on a summer's weekend, I suggest these are all good reasons for having the ride in Brighton.
The trouble with all your arguments is you have already equated nudity with paedophilia which is laughable! equating the wish to take your clothes off in a non sexual environment on a sunny day for a good cause and ride a bicycle.. with actually raping children (?!!!). You have just lost all credibility.
Gubbins
says...
10:19pm Wed 16 Jun 10
nicole/bob
says...
10:35pm Wed 16 Jun 10
1. Mary Mears is an elected member and Leader of our Council. You may disagree with her views, object and demonstrate, but no-one should publicly try and humiliate her in such an obscene way. Those responsible should definitely have been arrested, whether a complaint was made or not. This was an attack on our democratic system.
2. Freedom of speech: the key word here is 'freedom'. With freedom comes responsibility, maturity of thought and behaviour, respect for others,etc... eg. you do not give total freedom to a child or someone with a serious mental disorder.
3. The illustrious Mary Mears (good description!): I have no special allegiance to Mary Mears. I could not vote for her as she does not represent my ward. I just happened to agree with her views on this specific issue and felt it was important to support her. What I say as an individual cannot therefore possibly taint her reputation. In any case, my views are strongly supported by many local decent families. They may choose not to get involved for all sorts of reasons (lack of time, apathy, thinking it will not make any difference...) but their thinking is similar to mine. David Cameron is absolutely right to say that everyone should engage in their community. As the saying goes "Where apathy lives, the devil reigns" (especially in this case!).
4. I am apparently guilty of lumping all cyclists under the same heading: the problem here is that you all seem to be 'singing from the same hymn sheet'. eg. I thought the purpose of this demonstration was to highlight the vulnerability of cyclists. But no-one was curious enough to ask me what the danger was which I had spotted on our roads ... another good example being you crazy bikers who strap your kids into the back of these highly dangerous extended bikes Safety of cyclists is not really your true agenda, is it?
I am fully aware that there are some responsible cyclists who would never take part in such an obscene event.
5. "The good old Victorian days": I would have thought 'you' were the ones with strong nostalgic views on those days - imagine... no cars...
6. "Walking in another man's moccasins" (Wayne Reed): I must say, you come across as a rather more compassionate person than other contributors. I am starting to feel like a defenseless lamb being attacked by a pack of wolves! You are also very perceptive. You are quite right! I have seen, heard of, witnessed and experienced suffering far beyond what would be considered a normal human experience in today's society. There is another (Arab) saying which says: "Nothing grows in the desert where the sun is always shining". . Obviously, this is a reference to the soul. The reward for extreme suffering is a clearer understanding of the difference between good and evil and greatly increased wisdom. Walking in a cyclist's shoes (I have cycled in the past) would be like taking baby steps again to me. And I am not being flippant. I do know cycling on our roads is a dangerous activity.
7. Having just read the last entry before mine, I will try to enlighten you on paedophilia tomorrow. Some of you appear to be very naive and seem to have very little understanding of this subject.
Who knows, I may even get you to change your mind...
Nicole
Wayne Reed
says...
10:42pm Wed 16 Jun 10
In the many years my wife and I have visited naturist beaches, we’ve met the erudite and the ignorant, clergymen to swingers, **** stars to philosophers, and every variation in between. And yet, I don’t believe we’ve ever met a paedophile. This, unfortunately deviant, breed are more likely found in the clothed, ‘respected’ community. Naturists/nudists are actually a little too open & honest – therein our offence to others often lies.
Nonetheless, I must allow that simple nudity and paraded sexuality, are two completely different things.
We all have the freedom to explore exotic areas of sensuality, but when that involves putting piercings and unnatural paraphernalia on display, that interest should be confined to the home, or those adult environments that cater for it. The parent who has to explain why a naked man has their genitals emblazoned with metalwork, or trussed up like an oven-ready quail, has my entire sympathy. They shouldn’t have to explain it; they shouldn’t have to encounter it on any High Street, because that has no justification, for any cause.
Brighton’s naked bike ride, which in essence I vehemently defend, still had its flaws. Let us keep our analysis of it honest, well-reasoned, and non-confrontational; let us see if we can’t make it better, and better understood, next year.
Morrissey
says...
11:11pm Wed 16 Jun 10
A few years ago I visited a health spa in Austria where practically everyone, of all ages, was nude in the pool and sauna areas.. are they paedophiles? Are people (often families) who go to nudists/naturist camps also paedophiles? Are artists who paint nudes encouraging it as well?
The only peculiar logic I can see in your thinking see is that you think most people on the ride only joined in because they wanted to expose themselves to children for there own sexual gratification.. I certainly never saw anyone in a state of sexual excitement nor trying to specifically get near children. Were all the women on the ride equally guilty of being paedophiles?
There was a party atmosphere on the ride, but a nudsist environment is generally a de-sexualised one, people have not stripped off to have sex or cause arousal in others. People feel free and natural, just as children do in that state. The thought chain of nudity = sex = dirty! is only held by adults with psychological issues that the world would be better off without projecting onto children. I saw children in the crowd, they generally thought it very funny to see these silly grown ups with no clothes on.
You also defended the accusation of lumping everyone together.. but then did it again by saying how can 'we' all think those child seats on the back of bikes are safe.. well no one had one of them on the ride and it is quite possible lots of cyclists might agree with you on that, but you assume we all support these contraptions because we are all cyclists. It certainly had NO baring on our 'agenda'.
Anyway I digress, I am genuinely interested in your line of thought on how those on the ride are all child abusers or would be child abusers. We all want intelligent, reasonable discussion here and perhaps you will indeed surprise me.
nicole/bob
says...
8:46pm Thu 17 Jun 10
I am glad you mentioned Europe. I was born and raised on the Continent, so I do understand their values and people there talk to me openly. The reality is that Brighton & Hove has definitely gained notoriety abroad over recent years and is gradually becoming the laughing stock of the whole of Europe. 'Sleazy' is not the word they would use. I could not possibly even repeat how they describe our City. I have lived her for over 40 years and whenever I go back to the Continent, I constantly find myself having to defend the indefensible. It is so upsetting and embarrassing as I do love Brighton, obviously for totally different reasons than you do! Some Councillors would like to see Brighton & Hove become the cultural centre of Europe. This is not an impossible dream, but there would have to be a radical clear up operation before this could ever happen.
Wayne from Crawley: Naturism is a well established and, it would seem, well organized life style chosen by some people which they quietly follow in the privacy of their own homes or designated locations, without any desire to offend anyone. As we all know, this is vastly different from what is going on in Brighton where these exhibitionists take a perverse pleasure in doing exactly that. If I were a naturist, I would want to protect what I represent and keep well away from such events!
Morrissey
says...
11:20pm Thu 17 Jun 10
Did you actually see the event? or experience the positive atmosphere?
..and despite offering to explain why the 730 or so people on the ride are all paedophiles, people who are sexually attracted to children, you have not yet done so... plus your latest generalisation is that we ALL have studded genitalia!
You said you were generalising because we were all 'singing from the same hymn sheet' funny that, when accused of being obscene, anarchic child molesters with a sinister secret agenda that we should all disagree with your!
If we are all crazed anarchist sex maniacs then is it not odd that the weekend passed peacefully and without incident? indeed the police, who got a big round of applause from us 'Anarchists' reported no incidents what so ever, only a peaceful, fun bicycle ride. Sorry if that is not in accord with your own version of reality but there it is.
Morrissey
says...
11:26pm Thu 17 Jun 10
Brightonscouse2
says...
10:11am Fri 18 Jun 10
Paedophiles are more than likely to be found hiding behind a computer screen than parading themselves around town on a bike for the day. By that logic there's a higher likelihood of you coming into contact with a paedophile on this forum/on the internet in general than on the naked bike ride.
Just because you don't agree with the actions of some doesn't mean they have to be branded as perverse or capable of harming children in a sexual manner. We understand that it doesn't adhere to your particular set of beliefs or morals and are not branding you in a certain manner to re-enforce our argument unlike yourself. Your argument smacks of Daily Mail outrage just because you don't agree or can't understand that point that is being made by the demonstration.
nicole/bob
says...
1:30pm Fri 18 Jun 10
It would also appear that your understanding of politics is just as poor as your moral values. This is not how democracy works. We elect representatives of (hopefully) good moral standing who then take decisions on our behalf. They have to make decisions, not always popular, on all sorts of issues, including the rights and protection of minority groups. With your argument, homosexuals for example (a minority group) would still be sent to prison because of their sexual orientation. That would be fine with you, would it?
As I said, Brighton & Hove is becoming a cesspit of depravation, a magnet for all sorts of perverts. It is not by accident that this place is known as the 'Godless City of England'. Unfortunately, many people are totally gullible and follow like sheep the latest trend. No wonder you, apparently, had so many on-lookers.
If one took a vote in Brighton & Hove on this naked bike ride, I must say I would not be so sure of the result! We would need to ask the rest of the country, or another town, such as Tunbridge Wells for example, as to whether they would be prepared to hold such a similar event where they live.
As for the connections between the naked bike ride and paedophilia, and there are several, I agree with you on one point: I do not know who is reading this. On second thoughts, it may therefore not be wise for me to explain it on this site. I would not want to, inadvertently, give anyone ideas on such a serious issue. I will direct my comments directly to our Council.
As to the point of your demonstration, I am afraid, it has been totally lost. It is a well-documented fact that one of the first sign of madness is 'taking your clothes off in a public place'. The second sign is that you cannot rationalize with them. It is therefore pointless carrying on with this discussion which is getting us nowhere. I am afraid you have lost all credibility with your cause .
Morrissey
says...
8:23pm Fri 18 Jun 10
Speaking of homosexuals, what is your opinion of the Pride parade? As some participants in that choose to bare there genitalia? You sound like you are defending gay rights but by the very argument you put forward here that all cyclists are perverts and paedophiles for doing just that it is a logical step to say that you would lump all gay people together under the same banner?
Who exactly calls Brighton the 'Godless city of Brighton?' it is not a term I have ever heard.
You are quite right though, we will never see eye to eye, we who took part in the ride (and not everyone was naked by any means) are a diverse group yet you choose to slander us all with the most outrageous and insulting terms whilst complaining of someone being rude to Mary Mears. Accusing another human being of being a child molester is obviously not considered rude or unacceptable in the reality you must live in.
Well I shall leave you to wallow in your own world view now, it has been a fascinating debate! Thank you.
I shall look forward to all the fun of next years ride, with friendly, moral, open minded cyclists at my side, banding together to spread a positive message and have a fun day out into the bargain.
Turing Test
says...
9:18am Sat 19 Jun 10
This is "barely incomprehensible drivel", to use your words, which only leaves your position exposed. Can you mention even one "document" that establishes this "fact", to stop you looking like someone pedalling away from a debate you've lost?
Didn't think so...
Gubbins
says...
1:07pm Sat 19 Jun 10
True, heard the same myself in Germany. I would not - dare not - translate their words for describing parts of Brighton and it's notorious diverse culture !
Lucky7
says...
1:42pm Sat 19 Jun 10
DougM
says...
8:45pm Sat 19 Jun 10
nicole/bob
says...
9:49am Sun 20 Jun 10
If you had half a brain, you would realise it is all these self-centred ME, ME ,ME exhibitionist freaks with no principles or moral values who inhabit (or should I say infest) this once fair place who have dragged Brighton down into the cesspit which it has now become.
Could you tell us how decent law-abiding people have achieved this rather than your lot?!
rosiedoes
says...
12:47pm Sun 20 Jun 10
Lucky7
says...
2:34pm Sun 20 Jun 10
Morrissey
says...
3:17pm Sun 20 Jun 10
Nicole/Bob basically ignores arguments she can't respond to and just repeats the same 'you are all perverts line ad infinitum' to justify any point.
I am a very moral person and suspect I do more good for other people and society in general than most people.
..and I mean this in a genuine way, why don't you go and live in Tunbridge wells if you think Brighton is so utterly depraved?
In your ideal world would people NEVER see someone naked until there wedding night? (assuming they don't turn the lights off and hide under the covers out of shame at there own nudity) Now, that is truly Victorian thinking.
DougM
says...
5:10pm Sun 20 Jun 10
nicole/bob wrote:The attitude of aggression and vitriol apparent in your posts reinforces ny assertion. I feel sorry for you.
DougM...could you elaborate on exactly what you mean here?...sounds a bit like blaming the victim for "forcing" someone to abuse them to me! If you had half a brain, you would realise it is all these self-centred ME, ME ,ME exhibitionist freaks with no principles or moral values who inhabit (or should I say infest) this once fair place who have dragged Brighton down into the cesspit which it has now become. Could you tell us how decent law-abiding people have achieved this rather than your lot?!
Wayne Reed
says...
8:47pm Sun 20 Jun 10
I might have an answer. This unfathomable association of cycling with paedophilia seems to be a major bone of contention. Let’s consider, for a moment, the possibility that it arose from a simple misunderstanding/typ
o? And then we can all be friends again..?
Observe the similarity between the words “Paedophilia” & “Pedal-philia”. Granted, only one may be in the dictionary, but their meanings are still entirely different. Paedophilia, if I need elucidate, is a disgusting sexual practice, whilst Pedal-philia is a liking for cycling, which is good, healthy, exercise.
Doubtless, someone will now bemoan the fact that these cyclists were also naked perverts. Well, wasn’t it for the best? Do you really want perverts hiding in clothes? It’s far wiser to know where, & who, they are.
But the real genius of this event – and my hearty applause goes out to its inventor - is that while all those weirdoes were pedalling precariously through your fair city, under scrutiny, not one of them could actually have been having sex. (And I doubt anyone else was either). Hurrah!
I do hope my explanation brings us a little closer to peace on Earth & goodwill to all men.
Page the Oracle
says...
11:32pm Sun 20 Jun 10
Are you a positive or a negative person?
Any harm done?
Just holding up a mirror, folks.
nicole/bob
says...
9:46pm Mon 21 Jun 10
This obscene and ridiculous fad is making a mockery of the serious issues at stake here. It reminds me of a small child purposely doing something naughty in order to get his parents' attention. Here we have a group of immature adults, inadvertently mingling with all sorts of perverts, trying to 'rattle' the authorities by breaking our common laws of decency in a most provocative way. I am afraid the world of 'grown-ups' does not work that way! I can guarantee that this kind of event will not make an ounce of difference, except to provide a good day out to perverts and voyeurs alike. Apparently, according to one contributor, they are already eagerly awaiting, in anticipation of next year's event. I think you really need to get a better life...
You also mentioned that you have never heard a single degoratory
comment about Brighton. Maybe you have just been plain lucky, but obviously, it all depends on the circle of friends you mix with. People there may also be too polite and worried about offending you. Believe me, anyone on the Continent who knows or has heard about Brighton has extremely strong views about this
place.
As for the connections between this event and paedophilia, if I can make them, I am sure actual paedophiles, who have a vivid and perverse imagination, have also thought of them and will now, sadly, use them for their own vile reasons. I do have some understanding of the subject, having personally spoken to families who have suffered this heinous crime. As I said, I will send my comments directly to the Council as it would not be wise to expand any further (especially with you people who do not seem to understand the difference between right and wrong on the subject of nudity in public). My only concern here is for the protection of children. If this makes me look like a Victorian prude or bigot in your eyes, then so be it. I really do not mind!
Unfortunately I have to go now! Wayne Reed from Crawley: I have read your entry. I'll comment to-morrow and hopefully make you laugh!
Also 'Gubbins'; thanks for your support!
Nicole (French inhabitant of Hove for over 30 years)
Kev0
says...
11:49pm Mon 21 Jun 10
You are aware that the World Naked Bike Ride is not just held in Brighton aren't you?
As for the pedo stuff, I trust Nicole is equally against the Catholic Church, the Scouting movement and the Public school system - all of which have, at times, been abused by the "vivid and perverted" imagination of pedos.
nicole/bob
says...
12:04pm Tue 22 Jun 10
Also, if you were trying to make a subtle personal attack here, I am afraid you are barking up the wrong tree, I am not Catholic! Nevertheless it is good of you to point out how widespread the problem really is. It is probably as bad as domestic violence. And now, with massively increased security on all major institutions (even those remotely connected with children), your event would have attracted these sick people like a magnet! What an opportunity, with absolutely no check of any kind! I do not rejoice in saying this, but by simply applying the law of averages, you definitely would have had paedophiles infiltrating such an indecent event.
The simple answer to your comment is that two wrongs do not make a right. We are supposed to combat such perversions, not facilitate them!
Nicole
Morrissey
says...
7:33pm Tue 22 Jun 10
Are you suggesting full criminal background checks should have been run on every participant and IF any sex offenders had turned up they should have been barred from entry?
This seems as in touch with reality as most of your previous comments.
Kev0
says...
8:59pm Tue 22 Jun 10
Within the various institutions to which we entrust our children we expect appropriate protection to be in place. We do not simply dismantle or ban the institution. So it should be perfectly possible to practice family naturism without placing ones children under threat. You do not need to ban social nudity.
What is confusing me, and I think a number of others, is why you see any threat to children from the bike-ride. If any potential or actual pedo's were on the ride I do not see how they could have been a threat to any child. They would have had no opportunity and would have had the eyes of the public on them all the time.
Are you are thinking along the lines that a instilling a fear of nudity is a defense mechanism? I really don't think it is.
Page the Oracle
says...
10:35pm Tue 22 Jun 10
Thank you.
Can we keep it going until Christmas?
Will we all die of tedium well before that point?
Does the world keep turning?
Stay tuned for the next episode oof ................ "Soap" (I mean, "Argus")
Page the Oracle
says...
10:39pm Tue 22 Jun 10
om/watch?v=6hbnB3SL7
Xw&feature=player_em
bedded
Brightonscouse2
says...
10:59am Wed 23 Jun 10
You say you are not Catholic and from the content of your posts I can only assume you believe in religion of some denomination. I would like to ask what makes you think you have the right to force your blinkered religious beliefs on the people of this forum. This whilst claiming that the people on the bike ride are 'forcing' young children to view their naked bodies. Is this not hypocritical?
nicole/bob
says...
2:19pm Wed 23 Jun 10
Brightonscouse2: I do not remember bringing 'religion' into this debate! However, you are talking about 'good' versus 'evil', here, if you want to put it in religious terms, and nobody is beyond redemption.
Morrissey: You need to go back to the drawing board, with your calculations. At least one in four persons is at risk of domestic violence/sexual assault. In my experience, paedophilia (child abuse/molestation) is nearly as prevalent.
On a personal level, I have no reason to assume that you are not otherwise a caring person and I can believe, from what you are saying, that your intentions in taking part in this bike ride were honourable. However, I do not know you. How you 'shape your identity' is between you and your conscience and/or faith and set of beliefs. My attacks are really aimed at the 'event' itself, not individuals per se. I am also trying to bring to your attention how most decent, law-abiding people will perceive the participants of this event. Above all, my real concern is the protection of innocent children who have no say in the matter. They are really and truly extremely vulnerable, far more vulnerable than any adult cyclist could ever be.
Wayne Reed, Crawley: Interesting angle on the whole subject. I do like your sense of humour and your approach in trying to pacify everyone! Paedophilia & pedalphilia. It did make me laugh, but it is even more funny than, I think, you meant it to be. The word pedal (with a silent 'e' at the end) is a slang and degoratory word for gay in French.
You have just insulted the whole of the French gay community... oops!
Actually my first reaction was that the kind of people attending this event would be the same as those who confused the word paedophilia with paediatrician. I do not know if you remember this actually sad and unfortunate incident?
KevO: In short, I have nothing against naturism and I would not compare it with this event, and no, I certainly would not want to instill a fear of nudity in children, the reverse!
On the surface you present what would seem to be a valid argument. Unfortunately it is flawed. My concerns are with the event itself and its consequences, and, in relation to paedophiles, the degradation and contamination of an already impaired and disturbed adult mind and of course the 'grooming' process. I wish I could be more specific, but we are entering very dangerous territory here, bordering on illegality.
Out of politeness, I will answer one or two more questions later but can I just say, I cannot reply to each and every single participant of this bike ride. There are too many of you and I have not got that kind of spare time to do so!
Nicole
Brightonscouse2
says...
9:47pm Wed 23 Jun 10
Your posts seem to have a religious 'because I don't agree with it your all the spawn of the devil' feel about them. That is why I said I can only assume that you believe in one faith or another. Why is it that you assume paedophiles were amongst those in the bike ride. You claim that " your event would have attracted these sick people like a magnet!", what evidence is this based on? Aren't paedophiles by nature extremely covert in the way they conduct their abuse. I wouldn't think parading around town on a bike fits the subtle nature they use.
Your argument flits from one thing to the next and just smacks of 'Daily Mail outrage'.
Page the Oracle
says...
10:44pm Wed 23 Jun 10
Nicole - Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to express the freedom of choice. I don't know whatever I would have done without your sage advice.
If you would be so kind as to send me the following useful hints every 5 seconds I would be very grateful - "Breath in............breath out".
Security word = Control-freak
Okay, so I lied!
nicole/bob
says...
2:57pm Thu 24 Jun 10
Brightonscouse: Your stereotype description of a paedophile is a very naive one. Actually, they are just ordinary people, from all walks of life, going about their business, just like you and I, and they are impossible to detect. Obviously, they are not going to commit a criminal act in full view of everyone!
I can understand that you would just regard this event as a bit of a lark, just a bit of fun. But, park this aspect for a moment, and try and 'think'. Think of the 'butterfly effect' principle for example. The consequences of small actions can be huge and are always those which drastically change lives, mainly other peoples' lives. You do not have to hold religious views to understand this, surely? The negative and subliminal message which will emanate from such an event is extremely powerful and a child, somewhere, who probably was not even there, will suffer as a result. Doesn't it worry you? As for those present at the event , participants and on-lookers alike, we all agree that no check is possible'. So what now?
Two other points raised by other contributors deserve an answer. I am sorry, I cannot remember your names and I have not got the time to read the whole thing again!
One person was concerned about paying Mary Mears' salary: well, just think of the tab you and I have to pick up when abused children end up in lifelong psychological therapies and/or medication (providing they have not committed suicide first). Mental health issues are one the biggest burdens of the N.H.S. financial resources.
The other comment was 'why do I care so much about other people's children?': I must say, this comment says it all. It gives a good insight into your mind set and the dubious values that you must hold. This comment would be an insult to all the organisations and charities trying to help children in dire straits situations all around the world (not their children!). However, one has to bear in mind what kind of people would say such a thing. They deserve pity even more than condemnation.
Finally, with regard to 'Pride' (as I have been asked, several times, my views on this event), if what I have heard is true, and I suspect it is, having in the past seen the pornographic photographs in the Argus and read some of the readers' letters, what is going on there is an absolute abomination.
It is doing a massive disservice to all decent, law-abiding people who may be struggling with their sexuality and have fought long and hard to stop being persecuted and be accepted by society.
Someone was implying that I was loosing the argument. Actually, I was more concerned about losing my time, as pointed out by Gubbins. However, I do not like to pre-judge anyone and I felt what I was saying deserved an explanation. How you receive it is up to you: Your life, your conscience. I think we have exhausted the subject, don't you?
Nicole
Brightonscouse2
says...
5:20pm Thu 24 Jun 10
"Your stereotype description of a paedophile is a very naive one. Actually, they are just ordinary people, from all walks of life, going about their business, just like you and I, and they are impossible to detect. Obviously, they are not going to commit a criminal act in full view of everyone!"
So I'll ask again, what evidence do you have that paedophiles were present or the event "would have attracted these sick people like a magnet!".
Why do you associate the naked form with deviant sexual acts. a naked body is just that, a body, when not used in a sexual context. By your own logic do pictures/portraits of the nude body hold the same potential for attracting paedophiles or perverts and do the artists responsible fall into the same bracket.
You accuse me of stereotyping yet you appear to be the biggest culprit in that respect, you equate a group of people demonstrating naked with the sick depraved act of a child molester. You also have no way of backing your argument up with any form of credible fact and when challenged you flit to another outlandish point.
I would suggest you ease up on the paranoia that there are paedophiles on every street corner or stop taking everything you see/hear in the media as gospel.
nicole/bob
says...
9:05pm Thu 24 Jun 10
I would just like nevertheless to emphasize that my understanding of this subject has nothing to do with the media. Having said that, I think I am going to start buying the Daily Mail. It sounds just like my kind of paper!
Nicole
nicole/bob
says...
10:00pm Thu 24 Jun 10
My other half Nicole is taking a well earned rest from this subject, but I (Bob) would just like to add a few parting shots:
1. Never before heard of a protest which occurs on an annual basis...why is this and what are you lot doing about your concerns during the intervening periods?
2. If your agenda is to raise the awareness of the vulnerability of cyclists and the over-dependance on fossil fuels/resultant pollution:
a) Why don't you set up some sort of method of controlling the wild antics of some of your fellow cyclists...their dangerous behaviour is legendary...only yesterday was cut up by two cyclists overtaking me on both the left and the right at the same time and then riding on the pavement at full speed, oblivious to the danger they posed to unsuspecting pedestrians. Only an hour later, nearly ran into a biker who jumped the lights on full red...only the wonder of ABS prevented me from hitting him!
b) on the subject of emissions...have none of you heard of catalytic converters which since 1993 have been compulsory on new cars and other vehicles?
c) just how much fossil fuel do you think it takes to make a bike and associated lubricants?
As for your disgusting display of nudity...I class this along with all the other freaks who do similar things during the revolting Gay Pride weekend.
Bob, Hove
Brightonscouse2
says...
10:05pm Thu 24 Jun 10
It's unsurprising that you have again failed to address any of the points raised and chosen to deflect the questions asked. Can you at least explain what you base the assumption that demonstrating naked attracts paedophiles.
Yes we are going round in circles, why is this? Is it because you have made an outrageous and unsubstantiated claim and are now backtracking desperately when asked to provide proof?
I too am capable of making ridiculous assumptions and, as I have stated, your comments appear to have an air of religious, Middle England snobbery with a touch of media fed paranoia.
I do like the fact that you are quick to emphasise and vehemently deny any assumptions made against you but claim your own are valid and beyond reproach.
nicole/bob
says...
11:06am Fri 25 Jun 10
What a convincing argument. I do not know what made me say such a thing! Perverts are of course far more likely to be attracted to an 'old age pensioners' tea dance' than your event. Silly me!
Honestly, Brightonscouse, I am worried about you. Such innocence... Unless you are now trying to play some sort of mind game. I am not going to repeat myself and I am not going to give you any sordid details either. It could contaminate your delicate mind. Perverse ideas can be catching, you know. The way I see it, anyone who takes their clothes off in public on somebody else's say so is already in need of help.
Bob's points have not been made before. Why don't you answer those instead?
Nicole
Brightonscouse2
says...
10:50pm Fri 25 Jun 10
This is Brightonscouse2 girlfriend, I just had to comment on some of your outlandish comments.
You say perversity is catching, as if it is some kind of illness. I must admit I have never seen this in any medical journal. Your arguments are narrow minded and unformed with no evidence to support your assumptions.
The naked body is not something that anyone should be ashamed of, it is natural. Just seeing the naked body does not turn an individual in to a pervert.
Now you are turning the argument round and claiming my boyfriend is naive because he does not subscribe to your particular viewpoint.
Why do you think he's 'innocent'? Is it because he doesn't walk around assuming that there are paedophiles on every corner and anyone that doesn't fit your criteria of decency must be 'up to no good'.
By the way you mistakenly assumed that he took part in the bike ride and is subsequently 'in need of help'.
I just like to finish by saying that some of the greatest art in the world depict the naked body. Do you think everyone that views Michael Angelelo's David or Venus de Milo are perverts who contaminate everyone they come in to contact with?
nicole/bob
says...
3:35pm Sat 26 Jun 10
By the way, Nicole is my real name. "The truth will set you free", such wise words! Using my true name forces me to take full and complete responsibility for every word I type, but it also gives me the advantage of knowing that whatever I say on this forum, I would be just as happy to say to your face.
Now, sorry I am going to be blunt: you are regurgitating everything which has already been said and this debate is now seriously turning into verbal diarrhoea. A slightly crude way of putting it, maybe, but at least, this time, I may get my point across.
"Perversity is catching": I was only trying to use simple words for simple minds. Even this 'simple' point has escaped your understanding. I despair... Obviously no-one is born (one or two exceptions perhaps and even this is questionable) with a perverse mind. Babies are pure and innocent. Without proper and constant vigilance, their mind can become gradually contaminated, polluted, warped, diseased (you choose the word you like) over time.
I am not going to comment on the rest of your drivel, as it has already been discussed on this forum, except for your last paragraph: I would not compare Michelangelo's naked bodies to the ones on the bike ride. What an insult to the artist! And I am not just talking about their outward appearances either. We were quite surprised you actually knew who he was. We thought you would assume it is some Italian restaurant in Brighton, not to be confused with Galileo or Leonardo!
I tell you what. I will let you have the last word if this makes you happy. However, I want to make it clear now, so that I do not give the impression of being discourteous and dismissive of anyone, that I will not respond. You can carry on this discussion with your boyfriend at your own intellectual level. I would always have an answer to anything you may say, in any case.
Remember those words "The truth will set you free"? You cannot argue with "the truth" I'm afraid.
Nicole
Morrissey
says...
7:08pm Sat 26 Jun 10
Now you add "Babies are pure and innocent. Without proper and constant vigilance, their mind can become gradually contaminated, polluted, warped, diseased..'
Of course children need moral guidance, a sense of right and wrong.. don't steal, don't hurt people, be honest etc but most people would not add 'never let them see a filthy naked person or they will turn degenerate into depaved monsters on the spot!'.
Plus your use of language suggests an orwellian mind-control combined with a puritanical drive towards a close minded acceptance of parental control.. creating a clone society incapable of free thought, but I suppose you would welcome that.
You have also gone back to adding insults to your unsubstantiated points of view... is it not strange that you the 'nice, clean, moral person' are the only one insulting people?
Morrissey
says...
7:13pm Sat 26 Jun 10
nicole/bob
says...
11:23pm Sat 26 Jun 10
We will continue to oppose you along with our Council Leader Mary Mears so that we do not see a repeat of this revolting and disgusting event on our streets next year...shame on all you perverts who either took part in or support such a grotesque event.
PS for Morrissey: You have just proved two of my points in one sentence!
1.Paedophilia is more widespread than most people realize.
2.Abused children remain damaged for the rest of their lives.
Over and out for now...Bob & Nicole
Page the Oracle
says...
8:17am Sun 27 Jun 10
nicole/bob wrote:"Last comment from Bob?"
Last comment from Bob then it's definitely our last word on this subject - just go back to the Argus image at the top of this page and the earlier one of two fat Gays on their bikes...what does this tell you?...a goofy grinning freak with white gloves and a Japanese Parasol and two poseurs ...do you weirdos really expect us normal decent tax paying citizens to accept that this charade is anything but an excuse for perverted exhibitionists to expose themselves in public...they should be arrested! We will continue to oppose you along with our Council Leader Mary Mears so that we do not see a repeat of this revolting and disgusting event on our streets next year...shame on all you perverts who either took part in or support such a grotesque event. PS for Morrissey: You have just proved two of my points in one sentence! 1.Paedophilia is more widespread than most people realize. 2.Abused children remain damaged for the rest of their lives. Over and out for now...Bob & Nicole
We'll see...........
Control freaks always insist on having the last word!
Brightonscouse2
says...
11:20am Sun 27 Jun 10
I beg your pardon!. We have just read your reply to our comment and are disgusted. You claim that we are intellectual inferior yet can only adopt a patronising tone to try to undermine us. All I (Brightonscouse2) have done is ask you a fairly easy question. You have now gone on the defensive because you cannot answer and are now resorting to hurling insults. Could you please tell us how that gives you the intellectual high ground? All we have seen from you is that you are quick to make assumptions (about both the people involved in the bike ride and us), are unable to answer a simple question, and in a desperate attempt to cling to any foot hold in this debate are now resorting to insults. You know nothing about my girlfriend and I and we are not going to justify our argument to you because we know it is sound. It is quite funny how yourself and Bob are the only one's who hold these views yet you are adamant that you are both right and everyone else who has commented must be wrong.
The reason this 'debate' has gone round in circles is because YOU have not answered any of the questions put to you, perhaps you should try and the discussion will then move on. By the way the reason why we haven't put our names on here is because it's an internet discussion page, and (as you should know) giving out personal details over the internet is not recommended.
nicole/bob
says...
9:27pm Mon 28 Jun 10
Wayne Reed and KevO made this debate worthwhile. However, the reason nobody else is supporting our views is because other intelligent and decent people, out of self-respect, would not even contemplate talking to people like you. They would just regard you as a bunch of deviants. May I refer you back to Gubbins' brief warning and comment, on this forum, regarding this very point. Against our better judgement, Brightonscouse2, we decided to give you a chance. You should take it as a compliment!
You are hardly Eco Warriors, more Freako Weirdos
Nicole
Brightonscouse2
says...
10:01pm Mon 28 Jun 10
Could you clarify a couple of things please.
1) "people like us", please explain. I'm under the impression you know nothing about us, am I mistaken?
2) I have stated on more than one occasion that I have never taken part in the bike ride and was no where near it. As a cyclist I understand the cause and point of the protest.
Why do you keep referring to me as if I did?
3) I'll admit I have made assumptions about your religious beliefs but have maintained a respectful manner whilst debating. Why are you unable to do the same?
I would appreciate an honest answer to the above questions if you don't mind.
I also do not understand the need to define those that took part in such black and white terms. You seem to believe that those that took part (and those that disagree with you) are all deviants, whilst yourself and those that don't hold the same views are morally and intellectually superior. Isn't that too definitive, opinionated and akin to the religious beliefs that I suspected you of holding?
Please understand that I am open minded and objective to those that don't hold the same opinions as me. I have never questioned your intellect for simply disagreeing with me. Isn't that what intelligent people do?
More News stories
- Labour and Tories in pact to defeat Green tax hike bid
- Man attacked in Eastbourne Pier nightclub
- Buy my house and you can have it for free if Albion are promoted
- Police linking two Brighton robberies
- Gang set two dogs on sheep
- Amex to cut up to 195 jobs
- Online hate campaign targets Brighton mum
- Road closed after drivers ignore signs
- Inquiry into sexual assault at university closed
- Phoenix set for £100m rebirth
Wiggsy says...
4:53pm Sun 13 Jun 10