Shopkeeper in Lewes ordered to remove “obscene” chair from her window (From The Argus)

Shopkeeper in Lewes ordered to remove “obscene” chair from her window

11:10am Wednesday 28th December 2011 in News By James Wallin

Police officers have ordered a shopkeeper to remove an “obscene” chair from her window.

The outrageous piece of furniture in question was decorated with images from 1950s Playboy magazines.

Officers visited the Print Room in Station Street, Lewes, after complaints from members of the public. They said the saucy seat contravened the Obscene Publications Act.

The shop owner was so bemused by the request that she has draped it with its own public health warning.

The cheeky chair was the brainchild of Laura Diez, who runs Lollipop and Pepper at the Needlemakers in West Street.

She said: “I can’t believe anyone in their right mind could actually be offended by this.

“I used 1950s Playboys which are no more scandalous than the front cover of some men’s magazines which are on show in any newsagents."

The sign now hanging from the chair, which is for sale at £95, reads: “This chair has been deemed inappropriate for public view. Please take care.”

Shop owner Lucy Wilkes said: “We have had almost entirely positive comments from people apart from one woman who thought it was inappropriate."

A Sussex Police spokeswoman said: “Police attended a Lewes shop following a complaint from a member of the public regarding an item that was on display in the shop window.

“The member of public was offended by the images displayed on a chair and the shop owner was politely asked by police to remove it from public view, which he voluntarily did.”

Do you think the chair is offensive? Tell us by commenting below, by emailing letters@theargus.co.uk or writing to our letters page.