SOME readers have questioned the legality of dogging after a recent story in the Worcester News.

Earlier this week we published the beauty spots and car parks in Worcestershire being used as spots by exhibitionists, according to adult websites.

Dogging, sexual activity in public or watching others engage in sexual activity in public, is not banned under a specific law in the UK - but people who get caught can be charged under the Sexual Offences Act 2003 with public lewdness and indecent exposure.

Forces across the country have in recent years said they deal ‘robustly’ with reports of dogging, and do treat them as ‘a serious matter’.

Prior to the publication of the story the paper approached West Mercia Police asking how the force approaches reports of dogging. A spokesman said the force would not be commenting "at the moment".

Coronavirus rules would currently appear to prohibit some of the dogging activity.

Since the latest lifting of restrictions, on April 12, the rules state you can meet up outdoors with friends and family you do not live with, either in a group of up to six from any number of households, or in a group of any size from up to two households (each household can include an existing support bubble, if eligible).

Gatherings above the limit of six people or two households outdoors can only take place if they are permitted by an exemption, of which dogging would not be included.

Additionally rules stress social distancing is "still very important", adding you should stay two metres apart from anyone who is not in your household or support bubble where possible.

In the comments on the story Gail Braznell called it "inappropriate" but Giles Tufton said of the general dogging activity: "I can’t see what the problem is.

"What’s wrong with people wanting to explore their outdoor activities as long as it’s not in front of innocent people and children?"

REVEALED: The Worcestershire parks, beauty spots and car parks used as dogging hotspots