Hundreds of naturists will bare all as they set up camp in the grounds of an historic rural Wyre hall for the borough's first ever Nudefest for the North.

Dr Harold Elletson, the former Conservative MP, has agreed to rent out the grounds of his Parrox Hall home, in Preesall, and allow it to be transformed into a naturist resort by event organisers British Naturism (BN).

Au naturel activities, including a nude disco, are planned for the three-day naked festival which will take place from September 11 until September 13.

With more stark-naked entertainment yet to be announced, British Naturism organisers say it "promises to be another brilliant BN weekend this year."

A spokesman added: "It's a great chance for the naturist community to show our support for the preservation of this country's heritage and environment."

Dr Elletson, a direct descendent of Geoffrey the Crossbowman – the original Lord of the Manor of Preesall-with-Hackensall – is said to be very enthusiastic about the area's first naturist weekend and is keen to include the local community in the provision of services and entertainment.

Wearing only a smile, the 300 BN members expected to attend Nudefest will be allowed to stay in a caravan or pitch a tent within the 300 acres of grounds at Parrox Hall, which is one of the oldest houses in Lancashire.

Most of today's hall dates from the early 17th Century but it is thought the residence dates back to at least 1456.

The event has been given a fairly warm reception by Over Wyre residents.
One Preesall resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "What they get up to at Parrox Hall is their business.

"It should be acceptable, if it's in private it's OK.

"However, the way the weather is they might find it a bit chilly though."

Coun Dorothy Ramsden, of Preesall Town Council, said: "I think some people will be happy, some might not be. There might be noise from the music and a lot of traffic. They'll have to have proper provisions for waste and fresh water.

"I hope it will be warmer for them than last summer!"

And Coun Paul Moon, from Preesall, said: "You don't want people walking around butt naked, but if it's behind closed doors, it's a free country."

The event will set nudists £30 back per person for the whole weekend.

Tickets are only available to British Naturist members.

A spokesman for Wyre Council said the organisers would need to apply for a temporary event licence.

Source: blackpoolgazette

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