Godshill Model Village, located on the Isle of Wight, has removed a figurine of a topless streaker from its miniature football pitch after receiving complaints that it was inappropriate for children and families. The figure, which depicted a woman with exposed breasts, had been a part of the attraction for many years and was intended as a "lighthearted joke" referencing the streaking era of the 1970s and 80s.
Penny Dyer, director at Godshill, stated that the decision was made after considering customer feedback. "As a business, we listen to customer feedback and after considering the comments, we decided to remove her," Dyer said. She added that the priority is ensuring "all visitors feel comfortable" during their visit.
The figurine was known to bring "innocent delight" to children who visited the model village, with many finding it amusing. However, a "small number" of visitors expressed concerns that the display was not suitable for a family-oriented attraction.
Some regular visitors have expressed dismay at the removal, questioning whether the figurine could truly cause offense and arguing it was in keeping with the site's "whimsical sense of humour." However, Dyer also noted that the act of streaking is "a feature of a different era" and may have lost its relevance for younger visitors, who might not recognize it.
The model village is known for incorporating small jokes and whimsical elements throughout its displays. The streaker figure was one such element, intended to add a touch of humor to the miniature landscape. Despite the mixed reactions to its removal, the management emphasized their commitment to ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.