Couple who nearly split during lockdown say dogging saved their marriage

'The thought of meeting new people after being isolated for so long was exhilarating'

The Cheshire pair, who asked to remain anonymous, say their relationship lost its spark during covid and getting into dogging - having sex in public - was a great way to meet new people after the "painful" pandemic lockdowns lifted.

The couple loved it and now take part most weeks - and say their relationship is better for it.

The husband, aged in his 50s, said the couple had been interested in the hobby for years, but had "never actively participated".

"But the thought of meeting new people after being isolated for so long was exhilarating," he explained.

"It's now something we really look forward to and enjoy, and its helped us appreciate each other more as well."

The couple said lockdown was extremely tough for them. While the wife, aged in her 40s, stayed at home with their two children he carried on working due to the essential nature of his role.

That left the wife feeling "jealous" his job allowed him, and the pair almost separated.

However, after talking about the state of their relationship, they agreed they needed to "spice things up", so gave dogging a go.

He explained: "We used the excuse we were going to a country park for 'exercise' in summer 2020, and things went from there really.

"It brought excitement back to the relationship, and we each go with different partners if it feels right.

"There are actually lots of nice people who do it, but you have to be really careful.

"We're always together for safety reasons, plus, we like watching each other."

Three years on, the couple are still dogging every week, and have found enjoyment in swingers clubs - which he says are a more comfortable and safe environment.

She said: "Our relationship became boring and predictable.

"I hated that he could go out and I was stuck inside.

"The thought of dogging offered excitement and it was an opportunity to learn new tricks.

"That's ultimately what helped us get through the tough times."

He added: "We're still together, and we still love each other - we would never split up because of the kids.

"We go to swingers clubs, and try and dog once a week.

"It's not guaranteed something will happen every time. You can go weeks without meeting anyone you fancy.

"But sometimes it does, and it moves pretty quickly because everyone is on the same page - we all know why were there and what we'd like to happen.

"Swingers clubs are nicer environments as they're safer and warmer, so we often use those as well - it's been an interesting learning curve. "Human beings are social animals, and dogging is a widely enjoyed amongst a variety of different people from a variety of different back grounds.

"We really are grateful we found it when we did - it saved our marriage."

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