As the sun comes out, so do residents who like the simple joy of being naked in their own garden, according to a police force.

Upset neighbours of residents who loath clothes have been complaining to police in Reigate and Banstead, prompting the force to give advice on how to skirt around the issue.

Budding naturists are encouraged to have a chat with their neighbours and explain that they: want to sunbathe without clothes, have no wish to offend them, will be discreet and hope they will not object.

Writing on Surrey Police’s Reigate and Banstead Beat Facebook page, a spokesperson advised that the force would investigate cases of indecent exposure or outraging public decency.

A spokesperson added: “Confining your naturism to a part of the garden which can be screened from the view will obviously solve the problem.

“If none of the above is possible, you will have to decide whether your desire to be naked in your garden is more important to you than being on friendly terms with those around you.”

But nakedness among neighbours goes both ways it seems, and the spokesperson also advised: “On the other hand, no one has the right to spy on you.

“If you find that your neighbour is leaning out of an upstairs window or standing on the top of a step ladder in order to see you then he or she may well be committing an offence.”

When the Epsom Guardian asked for further information about the locations of the alleged crimes – for journalistic purposes – a force spokesperson replied they could not give any more details.