Ann Summers slogan offensive says Dean of Newcastle

Dec 8 2009 by Colin George, The Journal

A CHURCH leader has branded a sex shop’s saucy advertising slogan offensive to Christians.

The Ann Summers store on Grainger Street, Newcastle is using the motto “Have A Horny Christmas” as part of its festive window display to advertise its saucy underwear and sex toys.

The Very Rev Chris Dalliston, Dean of Newcastle, said the commercialisation of Christmas should not come at the expense of its true meaning.

Newcastle City Council received a complaint about the display. But chiefs say although they have deemed it “inappropriate” they have no powers to force the shop to take it down. Last night the boss of Ann Summers said she would investigate the complaint.

Mr Dalliston, of the Cathedral Church of St Nicholas in Newcastle, said: “Without sounding as if one is trying to be a killjoy, my feeling is that it is, insensitive – at best uncomfortable and at worst a crass marketing slogan.

“Many people see Christmas as a very sacred and special festival. That isn’t to say ordinary fun and human enjoyment shouldn’t be part of it, but people need to be sensitive to the feelings not just of the Church, but of the many people for whom Christmas is an important part of their relationship with God.

“One has to accept this is a time of year which is of great importance commercially. But it is about having awareness of the spiritual significance of Christmas as a celebration of Christ’s birth. Let’s not throw the Christ child out with the bath water.”

Matt King, who passes Ann Summers every day on his way to work at Newcastle University, contacted Westgate councillor Nick Forbes to raise his concerns about the window display and to ask him to take it up with the council.

Mr King said: “I think it brings a highly sexual language to the high street. Everyone who can read, whether they are four or 80 years old, is being wished this message, which they may not want. I would have thought the council would be concerned that this would end up being a seedy end of town as a result.”