Lorraine Kelly addressed whether she’d ever strip off as an ITV correspondent screened her time at Somerset’s famous annual naturist festival this morning. Surrounded by groups of people who were totally starkers, the correspondent was keen to know whether Lorraine would be up for it herself.
She exclaimed: “I wouldn’t force myself on anybody!” before admitting she “would find it a bit weird not to be supported in the bosom area”. The ITV star confessed she found running without a bra very uncomfortable and could not imagine letting her breasts go free in the sunshine like the women pictured on the show.
However, she received words from encouragement from one of the nudists, who declared: “Forget it – I’d rather have support in the double chin area!” Then she told Lorraine in no uncertain terms: “Don’t worry about your boobies, love!”
Another guest at the festival promoted it by promising “We don’t get tanlines!” and vowing that newbies would “get to come along and be part of the most accepting community I’ve ever been in”. Lorraine was far from convinced, but she did support it as a concept, exclaiming: “It’s great they feel free – that’s wonderful!”
Later in the show, Ben Shephard playfully quizzed whether they’d be going to the festival together the following year. “Only if you’re coming with me!” Lorraine shot back.
Lifelong naturist Susan and her pals were quick to promote the benefits of stripping off, including keeping cool in the hot weather.
They also pointed out that the event can feel “much as the same as other festivals” – except that there is “less to pack”.
There would certainly be no struggle in choosing what to wear, as party-goers would come in nothing but their birthday suits.
However, those at the event didn’t tackle tricky issues in the interview such as how to handle sunburn or people who might be attending for the wrong reasons.
Lorraine was clear that it wasn’t for her, but she praised the free atmosphere of the event.
Nudefest Naturist Festival describes itself as “the biggest nude camping experience in the UK” and reveals on its website that it attracts revellers from around Europe too.
Around 700 people are expected to attend the Thorney Hills campsite this year for the event.
Not everyone on Twitter liked the idea of the coverage, with one quipping: “I don’t need to be looking at that. I’ve just had my breakfast.”
However, a trademark L logo covered any private areas when a nude walk was screened, maintaining modesty for everyone.