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A WHSmith store has come under fire for apparently censoring gay magazines.

An image circulated on Twitter shows plastic signs advising customers who wish to purchase the magazines to take the sign to the counter.

There have been suggestions that gay magazines in the Leamington Spa store have been targeted by shoplifters but WHSmith has not yet explained why they have been hidden from view.

Attitude magazine has not yet commented but told Twitter followers that staff were investigating.

An uncensored copy of Zoo magazine, which usually features naked women on the cover, is shown next to the plastic signs.

This month’s issue of Attitude has no nudity, while Gay Times’ cover shows reality TV star Alex Reid topless with his arm covering most of his chest.

The image, apparently from the Leamington Spa store, was taken by Twitter user ‘@twinkleboi’, who said he had contacted WHSmith to complain.

He tweeted: “So angry at #WHSMITH – look what they do to (non-porn) gay magazines in their stores.”

When contacted by PinkNews.co.uk, a manager at the store refused to comment and directed us to the company’s press office.

PinkNews.co.uk is waiting for comment from WHSmith.