HUNDREDS of naked cyclists are set to hit Brighton’s streets this weekend.

The annual World Naked Bike Ride is expecting a good turn out.

The organisers of the tongue in cheek political protest said they think that the event’s timing after the general election will see an outpouring of support for their cause, campaigning against oil dependency and for more sustainable forms of transport.

The ride’s co-organiser Nick Sayers said: “We have had problems over the years with people taking voyeuristic photographs.

“But we have made a special effort to have fencing around the undressing area and taken measures against some repeat offenders trying to take grubby photographs.

“We always try to make the experience a safe and happy one. As well as being a protest it’s a party and we don’t suffer party poopers gladly.

“We have weathered a storm of criticism over the years.

“The first year, the chief superintendent of the police was saying we couldn’t show any rude bits, and councillor Mary Mears tried to put a wet blanket on it.

“But I think Brighton likes the ride.

“We have had young families take part in the ride and we are open to everyone of all ages.

“A lot of protests are very solemn but this is a party and the look of stunned joy on people’s faces as the ride goes past is fantastically special.”

There are hopes the weather should be ideal for baring all – as previous years’ hot sunshine left some participants with sunburnt unmentionables.

Organisers say that nudity is a powerful symbol of cyclists’ vulnerability, but add that it was not compulsory and participants can take part and “bare as much as you dare”, whether full frontal, body painted or in carnival outfits.

The ride will assemble at midday on Sunday at The Level, before rolling off at 1.30pm.

Nude riders will pass Brighton Palace Pier, i360, Hove Lawns, Churchill Square and the Royal Pavilion as the city is laid bare for an unusual sightseeing tour.

A post-ride party will be held at the Volks in Madeira Drive from 6.30pm.

The ride is free to attend, but relies on donations to cover costs.

To donate visit http://youcaring.com/BrightonNakedBikeRideFundraiser