Model village reinstates topless streaker following huge public backlash (and she's even raising money for a breast cancer charity!)

Published: 17:34, 4 August 2026 | Updated: 17:49, 4 August 2026 Even in the quaint world of Godshill Model Village events move quickly. On Saturday the Daily Mail reported that directors of the miniature village on the Isle of Wight had decided to remove Erica the much-loved streaker from their football pitch over fears her exposed breasts caused offence to visitors. But 72 hours later village bigwigs have decided Erica and her topless bosom can stay after all thanks to a poll. Godshill Model Village hosted an online referendum on the fate of Erica and an overwhelming 98 per cent of voters chose to keep her. To welcome her reinstatement in the village she will be used to help raise money for breast cancer charities. Erica will now be hidden in various spots in the village to encourage people to find her and then donate to charity, rather than returning to the football pitch.  She was originally placed on the football pitch as a nod to the era of prolific football streaking in the 1970s and 80s. Her cheeky pose brought 'innocent delight' to children who saw her and laughed for years until puritanical bores complained last week. Erica the topless streaker shall return to Godshill Model Village after a poll found in her favour Regular visitor Rupert Willoughby said he felt 'dismay' when he learnt that the village had removed the figure and decided to lead the campaign to democratically decide her fate. After the lifting of Erica’s suspension, a spokeswoman for the village said: ‘She will be returning... but this time swapping the football pitch for various secret locations around the gardens. ‘We would like her return to help raise awareness and funds for a wonderful local breast cancer charity. ‘So, if you spot her hiding in the gardens, there will be a donation pot nearby if you'd like to show your support.’ Previously director Penny Dyer said Erica was going to be removed because of complaints from a small number of visitors. She said: ‘The streaker on the football pitch has been part of the model village for many years, and for most visitors has been seen as a light-hearted joke. ‘However, we've received a small number of comments from visitors who felt it was inappropriate for a family attraction.’