ePetition details

North Yorkshire Council to work with their partners to maintain public safety and lawful protests

We the undersigned petition the Council to work with all relevant partner organisations to consider and balance the rights of the public not to experience distress when naked protests are organised in North Yorkshire.

For approx. 20 years, 'The York Naked Bike Ride Protest' has taken place annually in areas of public spaces. Set to be held again later this year, this protest largely consists of naked men, often wearing face coverings, to hide their identity, cycling past children's playgrounds and places of worship.

This behaviour raises serious questions about the protesters 'intent to cause alarm or distress'. It is now understood that it is a grave mistake to treat 'flashing' as low level or something funny:

"It’s time we lose the “flashing” narrative and recognise indecent exposure for the potentially very serious crime that it is, not least because of the risk for it to escalate into horrific brutality as it did with Couzens and with many other sex offenders." - The Angiolini Inquiry.

In recent years naked protesters have also reported increased hostility and violent assaults. Enough is enough.

In order to avoid similar problems for any future naked protests organised in North Yorkshire, the authorities must be seen to work together, act on behalf of the wider public to restore public order and common sense.

Thank you

Started by: Emma Hardy

This ePetition runs from 25/03/2026 to 01/06/2026.

2 people have signed this ePetition.