The WNBR, the World Naked Bike Ride, is not naturism, the organisers make that clear. The rides use nudity to make the point about human vulnerability and how the earth is also vulnerable, especially vulnerable to the effect that burning oil has on climate, but they have evolved, the rides now include the demand to have more and better bike tracks and a range of other human centred improvements to life.

Although not naturism, nudity for the pleasure of the experience, the rides show clearly the very widespread acceptance of nudity. Onlookers from around the world in the 70 plus cities in which they take place cheer, applaud, shout encouragement and enjoy the spectacle. In London, perhaps 70,000 people watch as over 1000 mainly nude people ride by. They all seem happy, eager to see and find out about it. Parents usher their children to the front for a better view, crushing the silly "what about the children" argument that a small minority use to vilify naturists. In the UK, it is not illegal to be nude in public as shown by the police protection we receive.

By showing the actual public reaction as against some imagined one, it is clear that the few vociferous people who champion a return to a less enlightened time should be ignored. Nudity can and does enhance life. Why not join in and see for yourself? The London ride is on Facebook.

More photos of the London ride on Flickr.

Here the ride goes past the Cenotaph in Whitehall. The Cenotaph commemorates the millions who died defending freedom. Freedom means that others do not marginalise or oppress harmless minorities.

Just Near the Cenotaph is Downing Street, the seat of government protected by armed police officers. These officers are also protecting our right as defined by Parliament to demonstrate a political view and to be nude in public.

The reception from the crowd is always very warm.

Most people smile, many clap and cheer. It all adds to a happy occasion.

A lot of photographs are taken. No doubt some people are surprised to see over 1000 nude people ride past in peace and joy.

No shock here.

Or here.

Parliament, where it has been decided several times that non-sexual nudity in pubic is quite legal.

This ride took place on the Queen's official birthday, hence the flags in the Mall.

It would be nice the think the Queen watched us go by on her birthday.

The London ride is on Facebook.