Fundraiser planning nude ride through Ludlow could be arrested if advice not taken, police say

Grace Oakley is hoping to trot through Ludlow in aid of suicide prevention charity PAPYRUS, and said she had been told by police she could be arrested if she undertakes the ride completely naked.

Following queries from members of the local community regarding in what capacity the event can take place, West Mercia Police Inspector Nikki Roberts said riding nude "may cause distress", and that they subsequently "may need to take action".

Having spoken to officers, Grace, 29, is set to ride her horse Indigo Sugar Babe, known as Ug, wearing nude-coloured underwear with her hair and tape covering her front.

Inspector Roberts said: "We understand Grace is doing this for a fantastic charity, one which we know is very close to her heart.

“Grace has been very good at letting us know what she has planned and we have had a few conversations with her just to ensure she isn’t in a position where we may need to intervene.

"One thing we have spoken about is that she needs to bear in mind if she carries out the ride completely nude, this may cause distress to members of the public, and if we receive calls about this we may need to take action."

The force added if a person carries out an act they know may cause distress, they may have committed a section 5 public order offence.

“We’re pleased that Grace has taken on board advice around the legislation and is making suitable adaptations so she doesn’t offend other people," Inspector Roberts said. "We wish her the best of luck in raising as much money as she can.”

Grace, a horse riding instructor from near Bridgnorth, lost her mother Kate to suicide at the age of 12 in 2004.

Grace said it was important to raise as much money and awareness for the charity as possible, particularly considering the additional pressures on mental health due to the coronavirus pandemic.

To donate, visit gofundme.com/f/a-ride-with-more-than-just-a-smile