Robert Brown, a 59-year-old website designer, was enjoying a ride with fellow naturists during the Four Seasons World Naked Bike Ride when his world was violently disrupted. Cycling through Colchester, Essex, on August 9th, he was deliberately struck from his bike, an act that left him injured and relying on a walking stick months later.
The attack wasn’t simply a physical assault; it was a challenge to a deeply held personal philosophy. Brown, a lifelong naturist and ride leader for the Clacton division, views these events as an “occupational hazard” – a disheartening reality he refuses to accept. He’s determined to continue participating, believing that giving in would be a victory for his attacker.
Brown is adamant about dispelling misconceptions. “We are not perverts,” he states firmly. He describes the freedom of being unburdened by clothing, the simple pleasure of air on skin, and the importance of self-acceptance. He envisions a future where public nudity is normalized, fostering a more open and accepting society.
The incident unfolded quickly. Brown noticed a driver making obscene gestures and uttering insults as he approached the group. Anticipating trouble, he positioned himself to protect a deaf friend, warning him to move to safety. But before he could react, he was hit with a forceful blow to the head.
The assailant, Turnage, claimed he mistook Brown for someone indecent. However, the impact was significant, leaving Brown with lasting physical limitations. Simple tasks like bending to pick something up now prove difficult, and longer walks require the support of a walking stick. His bike was rendered unusable.
Despite the attack, Brown emphasizes the legality of naturism in the UK. Current laws protect genuine naturists engaged in lawful activities, recognizing their right to freedom of expression. The key distinction lies in intent; behavior must be genuinely lewd, obscene, or shocking to constitute an offense.
Brown notes a curious pattern in public reaction. Rides with female participants often receive positive responses, even cheers, while all-male groups are more likely to attract negative labels like “paedo” or “pervert.” He believes this highlights a societal double standard and the need for a shift in perspective.
He hopes his case, and the judge’s ruling acknowledging the aggravated nature of the assault *because* he was naked, will set a crucial legal precedent. This is the first case of its kind at the crown court level, offering guidance for future judgments. Brown sees it as a victory, not just for himself, but for the entire naturist community.
Brown’s ultimate goal isn’t simply to defend a lifestyle, but to challenge ingrained prejudices. He believes that exposure to nudity, in a respectful and consensual context, can dismantle harmful stereotypes and foster a more tolerant world. “No child has ever been harmed by the sight of a naked body,” he asserts, “and never will.”
