CHILDREN taking part in this year's Nude Olympics at Maslin Beach will be told to wear clothes to deter paedophiles.

South Coast police have advised organisers of the Sunday, January 20, event to ensure all children are wearing bottoms while taking part in any events, including the children's sack race and treasure hunt.



South Coast Sgt Malcolm Marr said police met with organisers to provide advice about safety at the event.



"We thought it was appropriate to advise that children wear bottoms to deter any untoward behaviour,'' Sgt Marr said.



Organiser Debbie Pillar, whose Pilwarren resort near Swan Reach is sponsoring the event, said she wanted the day to be a "safe family event''.



"We are concerned about attracting those kind of people and if there are any issues, the police will be called immediately,'' Mrs Pillar said.



``We will be making sure children wear bottoms before participating and hopefully we won't have any issues.''



Mrs Pillar said unauthorised photography would also be banned at the event.



"There will be people associated with the event taking photography and they will be wearing official identification.



"We can't stop people from taking photos on the beach, but if we suspect anyone of doing the wrong thing the police will be notified.''



The Nude Olympics started in 1983 but has not be held since 2007 because of a lack of sponsorship.



This year's event will run from 11.30am to 4.30pm and involve about 20 races and activities.



South Coast Superintendent Graeme Adcock said police would patrol the car parks at the entrances to the beach and remain in contact with organisers throughout the event.



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