PEOPLE living close to the former Camelot pub in Chigwell have spoken of their shock after discovering their homes were close to a site being advertised for group sex sessions between strangers.

The Guardian revealed this week that a number of sites across the district are being advertised as places where swingers can meet to watch others have sex on "Dogging" websites.

"Dogging" is typically defined by a pre-arranged sexual act in a semi-public place, usually with two or more participants and where voyeurism is encouraged.

One of the most frequently mentioned areas for pre-arranged meet ups was the site of the former Camelot Pub in Manor Road, Chigwell - now known as the Miller and Carter Camelot Pub and steakhouse after it was taken over by a chain brewery.

The large car park at the rear of the building has no lighting and remains open and unmonitored overnight.

It also sits just yards away from the Hainault Forest Country park.

According to at least one site, the hotspot has been active for some years.

That's come as a shock to Manor Road residents John and Alison Blake, who live just yards away from the car park.

Mr Blake said he had seen evidence of sexual activity in the forest, but knowing that it was pre-arranged made him uncomfortable.

He said: "I was walking a friends dog in the forest and I noticed a trail of contraceptives on the floor. I think I counted eight or ten, so it must have been more than a couple of people messing around."

"I can understand the temptation for couples, but the fact that these are being pre-arranged is regrettable.

"Not only do groups of inner city children come here for a day out, but it also means that solo male walkers like myself are treated with suspicion."

Alison Blake agreed, saying: "We've all been young once and what you want to do in the privacy of your own home is up to you, but organised sex shows in public spaces is taking it a bit too far."

Neighbour Bruce Taylor added: "I thought the biggest problem we had with the car park was that it's being used by boy racers!"