A nude cyclist who was punched off his bike during a charity ride in Colchester, Essex, has spoken out in defence of naturism, urging the public to change their attitudes towards public nudity.
Rob Brown, 59, was taking part in the Four Seasons World Naked Bike Ride on August 9 when he was assaulted by motorcyclist Lee Turnage, 46. Turnage was handed a suspended prison sentence at Ipswich Crown Court for causing actual bodily harm.
The attack left Brown with grazing to his hands, arm, and legs, and he now relies on a walking stick for longer distances. Despite the incident, Brown remains undeterred, stating: 'If I don’t go on another ride then he’s won. It won’t stop me.'
Brown, who has been a naturist all his life and leads the Clacton division of the ride, described the assault as an 'occupational hazard' but stressed that naturists are not perverts. He noted that the ride protests against the 'destructive elements' of car culture.
According to British Naturism, there are an estimated 6.7 million naturists in the UK. The law states that a naturist going about their lawful business while naked will not be guilty of sexual offences, with the College of Policing affirming their right to freedom of expression.
Brown said Turnage made a 'filthy' gesture before the attack, and he moved to protect a deaf friend. Turnage claimed he mistook the nude cyclist for a 'pervert'. Brown's injuries persist three months on, affecting his mobility.
