NATURISTS who shocked pubgoers when they went for a nude meal say they are "deeply saddened" by an online backlash.

Neil Cox, 34, and Danielle Quiggin, 35, had a pint and a burger at The Railway, Burnham-on-Sea, on Friday (June 2).

They say they faced no problems there and staff were friendly.

But after discovering negative comments online, the duo have spoken out.

One Tripadvisor post claimed staff should have refused to serve them, while another said they were "outraged".

Neil, a finance worker from Cheshire, said: "I've made over 500 visits to shops, bars and other businesses whilst naked.

"And as far as I'm aware not one of those visits has ever resulted in a single negative review.

"Danielle and I find it deeply saddening that in 2023 an individual has attacked a small business that is trying to demonstrate acceptance and tolerance.

"The reaction in the pub when we arrived was initially one of surprise but quickly moved to quiet acceptance.

"After all, two naked people sitting in a corner of a pub having a beer and burger quickly becomes boring.

"Several people came over to us whilst we were there to have a chat and ask questions or request a photo.

"We weren't aware of anyone leaving the pub and there were no angry or upset comments directed at us.

"We felt welcome and comfortable in The Railway."

The pair are both in relationships but say their partners are "happy" for them to spend time together as their friendship is non-sexual.

Danielle, a healthcare worker, an Australian living in London, said: "That was the first time we've gone into that pub - but that was also the first time we gathered that sort of backlash and seeing the Facebook reactions blow up.

"More than 90 per cent of the time, in person and online, it's curiosity.

"It's more shock I think than anything, but you talk to people and most seem to get it."

The duo say being naked makes them comfortable.

Neil said: "I live this way all the time and most people are used to me.

"'I'm very comfortable and used to this and yes, you still get attention and you can feel on show, but it's usually curiosity rather than bad attention.

"Being able to run in the countryside naked is freeing and the opposite of sitting in a suit."

Danielle said: "I'm proud to be continually exploring this and proud of myself for persevering.

"More and more as I reflect on it, I find it's really beneficial for my mental health.

"It's increased my body positivity and the confidence I feel in my body.

"I'm less worried how I appear when I'm naked that when I'm wearing clothes."