THEGAYUK

Tag: UK

  • Man charged with the murder of three gay men in Reading Terror incident

    Man charged with the murder of three gay men in Reading Terror incident

    A man has charged with three counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder, police say.

    The Crown Prosecution Service has given police the go-ahead to charge Khairi Saadallah, 25 of Basingstoke for the murders of three men who were killed last Saturday night in Reading.

    The charges come following an investigation into an incident at Forbury Gardens in Reading on the evening of June 20, where a number of people were stabbed in what the police described as a “terrorism incident”.

    Saadallah is accused of killing James Furlong, 36, David Wails, 49, and Joe Ritchie-Bennett, 39, on 20 June.

    A post mortem confirmed that each of the men died from a single stab wound.

    Mr Furlong, 36 was a teacher at The Holt School in Wokingham. He taught history and politics.

    Mr Ritchie-Bennett, 39 worked for a pharmaceutical company. He was originally from Philadelphia in the US. He had lived in the UK for 15 years.

    Mr Wails was a senior scientist at a global chemicals company.

    All three were described as “true gentlemen” by the CEO of Reading Pride, Martin Cooper.

    Saadallah came to live in the UK from Libya in 2012 claiming asylum. He was given leave to remain in 2018.

    Saadallah is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates Court on Monday, June 29.

    Fundraiser for victims hits £13,200

    Over 600 people have already donated to a fund to help families cover the costs of funerals.

    An official fundraiser has been created by Reading Pride to help the families of Joe, James and David.

    t is also hoped that the funds raised will go towards a permanent tribute to the three men in Forbury Gardens in Reading town centre, where the three were killed.

    The fundraiser page has a statement which reads,

    “With the tragic event within our community in Reading on Saturday 20th June 2020, we’re hoping to raise some money and funds to help support the families for funeral costs.

    “As well as a permanent tribute within Forbury Gardens, so everyone has a physical memento to remember the tragic loss of lives that have occurred.”

    Counter Terrorism Policing South East continues to lead this investigation.

  • When will gay bathhouses and saunas reopen in the UK?

    When will gay bathhouses and saunas reopen in the UK?

    Fans of bathhouses may have to wait a little longer than hoped for saunas and bathhouses to reopen.

    Many parts of the LGBT+ economy is starting to awaken from the COVID-19 Lockdown, with the return of gay sex and lifestyle shops last week in England, but other sectors, such as nightclubs and gay saunas are still having to wait their turn to open.

    Hopes were dashed for many sauna fans when gyms, spas and other health venues were not included in the list of business types that could fully reopen during the last official announcement by the government on what businesses could reopen – provided they were “COVID SECURE”.

    It had been hoped that many businesses could fully reopen on the 4th July, however many health businesses and nightclubs were not included, despite outdoor gyms and pubs and bars being permitted to open from the beginning of July – provided they could prove they are “COVID Secure” – a term the UK government has been using to denote that businesses are making sure that customers and employees are adhering to rules and restrictions that can halt or slow the spread of coronavirus.

    Possible mid-July opening?

    However, a little glimmer of hope came in the form of a Tweet from the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Oliver Dowden, who said, “Subject to public health, our aspiration is to reopen gyms & leisure facilities in mid-July”

    Read how the Gay Sauna experience may differ after lockdown eases. One sauna in Nottingham shares what changes will happen.

  • Bourne Free announces 2021 date and theme

    Bourne Free announces 2021 date and theme

    The organisers of Dorset’s largest pride, Bourne Free have announced the dates of Pride 2021 and the theme, vowing to come back stronger after 2020’s event had to be cancelled due to Covid-19.

    Bournemouth’s pride event, Bourne Free will take place once again in 2021, and the dates have been announced as the 9th and 10th July 2021 with the theme,  ‘Stronger Together – Celebrating Our Emergency Services & All Key Workers’.

    The Pride will also move from its normal home of the gardens to Meyrick Park, Bournemouth.

    Benjamin Horgan, Chair of Bourne Free, said –

    “All the Bourne Free Trustees have been blown away by the many stories of courage and hope that we’ve seen over the last few months.”

    We want our 2021 Bourne Free Weekend to be an opportunity to recognise the people who are making a difference to our community; from NHS workers and carers to bus drivers, supermarket workers, posties and the unpaid volunteers who’ve given their time willingly. Come dressed to impress as your favourite key worker. From scrubs to uniforms, tabards to overalls and everything in-between to celebrate our real life heroes!

    “We can’t wait to see everyone at Bourne Free next year and look forward to working with our principal sponsor Ageas Insurance to bring you a weekend that we promise will be worth waiting for.”

  • Reading Pride creates funeral fundraiser for victims of Terror attack

    Reading Pride creates funeral fundraiser for victims of Terror attack

    An official fundraiser has been created by Reading Pride to help the families of James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails who all sadly died after an attack in Reading over the weekend.

    Reading Pride has already raised over £8,500 for the families of the three men who were killed in a terror incident. Nearly four hundred people have donated to the fundraiser, which has been created to help the families with the costs of the funerals.

    Permanent Tribute

    It is also hoped that the funds raised will go towards a permanent tribute to the three men in Forbury Gardens in Reading town centre, where the three were killed.

    The fundraiser page has a statement which reads,

    “With the tragic event within our community in Reading on Saturday 20th June 2020, we’re hoping to raise some money and funds to help support the families for funeral costs.

    “As well as a permanent tribute within Forbury Gardens, so everyone has a physical memento to remember the tragic loss of lives that have occurred.”

    Three died, multiple people were injured

    James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails were all enjoying an evening in Forbury Gardens when, according to witnesses at the park, their attacker approached them and others, with what has been described as a 5-inch knife.

    Chief Constable of the Thames Valley Police said,

    “Following the tragic incident in Reading on Saturday night in which three innocent members of the public sadly lost their lives, I wanted to message our wider Thames Valley community to provide some reassurance at this difficult time.

    “At this time Thames Valley Police and Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE), who are leading the investigation into the attack in Reading, do not believe there to be a wider risk to the public. I would like to reiterate that there is nothing to suggest that anyone else is involved in this offence and we are confident this is an isolated incident. In the past when there has been a terrorist attack, at home or abroad, we have seen the national terror threat level change increase. That has not happened in this case, which is confirmation of the security services assessment following this incident.

    “Nevertheless, I understand that this incident will have caused great concern and I would like to reassure you that my officers and staff continue to be present in your area, responding to emergencies and safeguarding the vulnerable. You may see more officers out and about during this time; do not be alarmed by this, they are there for your reassurance. Please do approach them if you have any questions or concerns.”

    To donate, click here

  • James Furlong, who died alongside friends in the Reading Terror attack: “beautiful, intelligent, honest and fun”

    James Furlong, who died alongside friends in the Reading Terror attack: “beautiful, intelligent, honest and fun”

    The family of a teacher who was killed in Saturday evening’s knife attack in Reading have paid tribute to him saying that he was “beautiful, intelligent, honest and fun”.

    The parents of James Furlong, Gary and Janet, said, “James was a wonderful man. He was beautiful, intelligent, honest and fun.

    “He was the best son, brother, uncle and partner you could wish for. We are thankful for the memories he gave us all.

    “We will never forget him and he will live in our hearts forever.”

    Mr Furlong was killed alongside David Wails and Joseph Ritchie-Bennett, on Saturday evening in Forbury Gardens in Reading. According to witnesses at the park, their attacker approached them and others, with what has been described as a 5-inch knife.

    Man arrested

    A twenty-five year old man has been arrested in connection to the incident. He remains in custody.

    The victims are due to have post-mortem examinations to take place this week to identify the cause of their deaths.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Kath Barnes, Head of CTPSE, said: “This investigation is continuing at pace.

    “We have a large team of officers and staff working to establish exactly what happened in the lead up to, during and after this incident.

    “Our thoughts very much remain with the family and friends of those who have lost loved ones and those who have been injured and affected as a result of this tragic incident.

    “I would ask both the media and the public again not to speculate on any aspect of this case at this time as this could have an impact on the ongoing investigation and any future court appearances.”

  • Reading Terror attack victim Joseph Ritchie-Bennett: “the most kind, caring loving person”

    Reading Terror attack victim Joseph Ritchie-Bennett: “the most kind, caring loving person”

    Family members of Joseph Ritchie-Bennet have paid tribute to the 39-year-old, saying that he was “the most loving person you could meet”.

    Joseph’s father, Gary Ritchie, said, “I was absolutely blessed and proud to be Joe’s father for 39 years and we are heartbroken by what has happened”

    Mr Ritchie-Bennett’s brother and sister in law, Stephen and Katy Bennett added, “Joe was the most kind, caring and loving person that you could meet.  We are absolutely devastated and heartbroken.  Joe will always be with us in our hearts.”

    The attack, which happened on Saturday evening in Reading’s, Forbury Gardens has now been labelled as a terror attack, by Thames Valley Police.

    A twenty-five-year-old man has been arrested in connection to the incident. He remains in custody.

    The victims are due to have post-mortem examinations to take place this week to identify the cause of their deaths.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Kath Barnes, Head of CTPSE, said: “This investigation is continuing at pace.

    “We have a large team of officers and staff working to establish exactly what happened in the lead up to, during and after this incident.

    “Our thoughts very much remain with the family and friends of those who have lost loved ones and those who have been injured and affected as a result of this tragic incident.

    “I would ask both the media and the public again not to speculate on any aspect of this case at this time as this could have an impact on the ongoing investigation and any future court appearances.”

  • Parents of David Wails, killed in Reading Terror incident: “We are broken-hearted at losing him”

    Parents of David Wails, killed in Reading Terror incident: “We are broken-hearted at losing him”

    The parents of a man who was killed in the Reading Terror attack on Saturday evening have paid tribute to him, calling him someone who “who never hurt anyone in his life”.

    Mr Wails was killed alongside James Furlong and Joseph Ritchie-Bennett, on Saturday evening in Forbury Gardens in Reading. According to witnesses at the park, their attacker approached them and others, with what has been described as a 5-inch knife.

    Speaking about the lost of their son, Mr Wails’ parents said,

    “David was a kind and much-loved son, brother and uncle who never hurt anyone in his life.

    “We are broken-hearted at losing him and in such a terrible way. We will treasure our wonderful memories of him and he will always be with us in our hearts”

    The attack, which happened on Saturday evening in Reading’s, Forbury Gardens has now been labelled as a terror attack, by Thames Valley Police.

    A twenty-five year old man has been arrested in connection to the incident. He remains in custody.

    The victims are due to have post-mortem examinations to take place this week to identify the cause of their deaths.

    Detective Chief Superintendent Kath Barnes, Head of CTPSE, said: “This investigation is continuing at pace.

    “We have a large team of officers and staff working to establish exactly what happened in the lead up to, during and after this incident.

    “Our thoughts very much remain with the family and friends of those who have lost loved ones and those who have been injured and affected as a result of this tragic incident.

    “I would ask both the media and the public again not to speculate on any aspect of this case at this time as this could have an impact on the ongoing investigation and any future court appearances.”

  • Is there a nudist beach in Brighton?

    Yes there is a nudist beach in Brighton and here’s where to find it

    Originally opened in 1979, Brighton’s nudist beach is one of the most popular and most accessible nudist beaches in the UK.

    And since it’s Brighton and involves public nudity, the beach is hugely popular with the gay community. Despite the fact that the beach itself is one of shingle and pebbles, it remains one of the UK’s busiest naturist spots.

    So be sure to bring flip-flops and a particularly comfortable towel if you’re planning on sunning your bits in Brighton.

    Where is Brighton’s Nudist Beach?

    if you’re wondering how to find it – if you’re looking at the Pier (out to sea) the beach is a little way up the beach to the left, towards Duke’s Mound.

    Is there cruising at Brighton’s nudist beach?

    So there you have it, there is a nudist beach in Brighton and it happens to be very popular with the LGBT+ community, but as our Travel Expert, Nick Baker warns, don’t expect that just because a beach is particularly popular with gay men, to expect there to be a lot of cruising. He told us,

    “Just remember that not all nudist beaches are gay beaches, and not all gay nudist beaches are ok with other “activities”. A nudist beach is not always an excuse to go dogging”.

    Being naked at a Nudist Beach in Brighton is not illegal, but you have to be careful about cruising.
    (C) BIGSTOCK

    Public nudity is generally not legal in England, except in certain specific circumstances. The laws around public nudity are complex, but as a general rule, it is illegal to expose one’s genitals, buttocks or breasts in public places where other people could see them. This includes on the street, in parks, on beaches, and in other public spaces.

    There are some exceptions, such as during events like the World Naked Bike Ride, where participants are allowed to cycle naked through the streets of some cities. There are also designated nudist beaches where nudity is permitted, although it is important to note that even on these beaches, sexual behaviour or lewd conduct is not allowed and may result in criminal charges.

    In summary, public nudity is generally not legal in England and those who do so may face criminal charges unless it falls under specific exceptions.

  • Three victims of Reading Terror attack were all friends of Reading Pride

    Three victims of Reading Terror attack were all friends of Reading Pride

    Police have now named all three victims killed in a horrific terror attack in the heart of Reading over the weekend.

    James Furlong, Joe Ritchie-Bennett and David Wails were all enjoying an evening in Forbury Gardens when, according to witnesses at the park, their attacker approached them and others, with what has been described as a 5-inch knife.

    The attack, which happened on Saturday evening in Reading’s, Forbury Gardens has now been labelled as a terror attack, by Thames Valley Police.

    The CEO of Reading Pride wrote a heartbreaking statement in which he called all three, James, Joe and David “True Gentlemen” and said that the Reading’s LGBT+ community would be in mourning.

    Mr Cooper added that the three victims were a support network for others and that they would be “sorely missed by many”.

    Mr Furlong, 36 was a teacher at The Holt School in Wokingham. He taught history and politics.

    Mr Furlong’s parents, Gary and Janet released a statement following his death saying,

    “James was a wonderful man. He was beautiful, intelligent, honest and fun.

    “He was the best son, brother, uncle and partner you could wish for. We are thankful for the memories he gave us all. We will never forget him and he will live in our hearts forever.”

    Mr Ritchie-Bennett, 39 worked for a pharmaceutical company. He was originally from Philadelphia in the US. He had lived in the UK for 15 years.

    Mr Wails was a senior scientist at a global chemicals company.

    Appeal for information

    Detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) continue to appeal for anyone with information about the terrorist incident in Reading, to come forward.

    A number of people sustained stab injuries during the incident which happened in Forbury Gardens just before 7pm on Saturday (20/6). And sadly, three people died as a result of their injuries.

    A further three people who were taken to hospital with injuries following this incident, have now been discharged from hospital.

    Police say that a 25-year-old man from Reading, was arrested in connection with this incident, by three police officers near to the scene. Detectives were today granted a warrant of further detention until Saturday 27 June, and the man remains in police custody.

  • This gay sauna has outlined how things might work after lockdown eases

    This gay sauna has outlined how things might work after lockdown eases

    Booking time slots, having the building to yourself and temperature checks is how one gay sauna is saying how it will operate until the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided enough for life to go back to normal.

    As parts of the LGBT+ economy is starting to awaken from the COVID-19 Lockdown, with the return of gay sex and lifestyle shops this week, other sectors, such as bars, clubs and saunas are still having to wait their turn to open.

    So far the UK’s government have not set a date for when businesses such as saunas might be able to reopen in England. In Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the devolved governments have ultimate say over when businesses may open. However, it is thought that businesses like sauna may be able to reopen from the 4th of July, in England.

    However, despite this, the interest of gay saunas has increased week by week here on THEGAYUK, with the search for sauna openings and locations surging 152 per cent from May to June.

    One sauna, the Wolf Spa in Nottingham has laid out some of its plans for operations post lockdown.

    In a post on Facebook, the sauna’s management wrote, that it “may be opening on the 4th” depending on advice from the government. But when it opens it will be a very different experience, with the sauna opening only for massage, manscaping and waxing – for singles or couples from the same household.

    The spa would be open for private use for visitors from the same household.

    The venue advised that “Booking via the website would be essential and that no one else would be in the spa”.

    Temperature checks when you enter the building

    Embed from Getty Images

    The spa also suggested that temperature checks might take place for those entering the venue, to ensure that no one has an active fever or raised temperature.

    A statement on the website states,

    “We are closely monitoring the government’s statements and following their guidelines we are planning on re-opening our doors again on Saturday, 4th July 2020. That being said, when we do re-open we will only be offering Massages/Manscaping/Waxing & Body Scrubs.

    “Clients who book one of our therapies will be able to use the facilities of the spa such as the steam room/sauna/jacuzzi – however apart from a member of staff they will be the only other person in the spa.

    “We will be allowing clients to use the spa facilities without booking one of our therapies but they will have to be a member of Wolf Spa.”

    THEGAYUK.com reached out to a number of other venues for their policies ready for a possible opening on the 4th July.

  • Where can I buy poppers in Bournemouth?

    If you’re in the market to buy poppers or room aromas and you’re in the Bournemouth area, here’s where you can buy them from.

    There are a number of LGBT shops in Bournemouth where you can purchase poppers.

    Firstly, Prowler has a store based in Bournemouth. The store is linked with Simply Pleasure and is located at 333-335 Holdenhurst Road. The store has a wide variety of products, including poppers.

    Secondly, Easy Tiger, a shop right in the heart of Bournemouth’s LGBT quarter (the Triangle) has a full range of bedroom bits and pieces and a full range of room aromas for you to check out.

    Thirdly you can always buy poppers online. A number of shops exist that sell room aromas.

    Are poppers legal in the UK?

    Where can you buy poppers in Bournemouth?
    CREDIT: TheGayUK

    It is completely legal to consume and sell poppers in the UK. In 2017 there were fears that the Conservative government would outlaw their sale and usage, however, poppers were proven to not be a psychoactive substance and so the government made a U-turn and decided against making the liquid illegal.

    If you’re wondering whether poppers are safe to use, then read our advice on them here.

    What else is LGBT+ in Bournemouth?

    Bournemouth has a number of LGBT+ / gay venues including Saunas, Bars and places to get food. It also has a yearly pride event called Bourne Free which is one of the largest on the south coast.