A naturist club in Chalfont St Peter has reported a “huge increase” in member enquiries this spring as Covid restrictions eased.

Diogenes Sun Club, in Shire Lane, says naturism – the practice of going without clothes – is on the rise nationally, with British Naturism reporting 1,100 new members over the last year, which is reportedly more than three times as many as is considered normal.

Diogenes Sun Club spokesman Andy Cross said: “Lockdown has been tough for so many people. During this time, with so many people either working from home or furloughed, there seems to have been a realisation that the clothing we wear is not as important as always thought.

“There has been a real interest in connecting with nature, and for many there has been an emphasis on the wellbeing benefits to be had by being in the open air while indoor socialising has not been allowed.

“Put those things together and it makes naturism the natural choice.”

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Established in the 1930s, the club, one of the oldest in the country has been at its current location on the Bucks/Hertfordshire border since 1964 and has around 300 members.

Mr Cross added: “Diogenes is a perfect place for people to give naturism a try. We’re working in line with the government roadmap, welcoming back visitors and members in a Covid-secure way and are looking forward to experiencing, once again, the special atmosphere at the club as we head through to summer.

“We are so used to people being nervous on their first visit, but it’s great to see those nerves disappear once people see how friendly naturists are, and how relaxed and normal it all feels.

“There are so few experiences in life that are equal to the feeling of the air and sun on your skin, and the increase in body confidence and wellbeing that goes with it.”