A poster advertising a naked bike ride through New Brighton has sparked an angry backlash on social media. The AI-generated poster, which claimed to promote the event, drew mixed responses, with some making jokes and others raising concerns about children's welfare.
However, the ECHO understands there is no evidence to suggest the plans are real. The poster was shared to several Wirral-based Facebook groups on August 6, claiming a bike ride was scheduled for Saturday, August 22.
Poster details and route
According to the poster, the ride would start at Perch Rock, with participants then heading to Marine Lake in West Kirby, followed by a picnic on Hilbre Island, which is cut off from the mainland and only accessible at low tide.
The poster claimed the event was "protesting lack of kindness" and that attendees could "Ride free, ride naked, ride together." But questions soon arose about its authenticity, given the AI-generation and lack of available information elsewhere. There are no official event listings online.
Public reaction and police response
Despite the doubts, the poster has received hundreds of comments, consisting overwhelmingly of jokes, disagreement and concerns. One Facebook user said: "In front of kids? Joke or no joke, it's sick!" Another replied: "Nothing sick about a naked body. We've all got one." Another commenter said: "Absolutely no need." While another concerned woman said: "Couldn't agree more! Impolitely gross and unnecessary." But another Facebook poster said: "If legit it sounds brilliant."
A spokesperson for Merseyside Police told the ECHO police are not aware of the event. The ECHO also asked the account sharing the poster to verify the ride, but did not receive a response. There is currently no evidence to suggest the event will take place.
Comparison with Brighton ride
The famous Brighton Naked Bike Ride, held annually in the south of England, was due to take place on June 13. But the event was postponed after organisers said they felt "unable to guarantee safety for riders." Organisers said: "This is due to a clash with another protest announced this week, together with a counter-protest scheduled for the same day. This was not a decision we took lightly but, among the committee members, we felt we had no choice." There is no indication the New Brighton and Brighton bike rides are affiliated.
