As a nation, we're fond of whipping off the layers and exposing some skin whenever the temperature climbs above 12 degrees celsius.

Now, if you've ever craved the freedom of walking down the beach naked as the day you were born, you'll finally be catered to on these shores. It's reported that Ireland's first nudist-friendly beach is to be established in South Dublin. Hawk Cliff in Dalkey has been earmarked for signage welcoming nudists, according to The Irish Sun. It's been organised by the Irish Naturist Association and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, which will erect notices to inform the public that nudists are welcome next month. This step is a "milestone for ­Ireland," said INA chief Pat Gallagher. The group is lobbying a number of local authorities for similar notices. Any nudist-friendly beaches will also be open to those who want to cover up, Pat explained, but the signs will warn people not to be alarmed. "It will more than likely say something like 'nude bathers may be seen beyond this point'. "So for someone reading that, if for any reason they are in fear or distress, at least they will have notification that there may be nude bathers." They INA doesn't want to exclude anyone or to have a beach to themselves, he added. "We have always used the term ‘clothing optional’. "We simply want to go there, lie in the sun, get in the water, have a swim . . . but we don’t want to wear anything, that’s all."