Publisher defends 'x-rated' scene hidden in Biff, Chip and Kipper book

A reader noticed a seemingly inappropriate scene in the background of the learn-to-read book's pages

(OUP)

Publisher Oxford University Press (OUP) has been forced to defend one of its children's books after a reader noticed a seemingly inappropriate scene in the background of its pages.

Twitter user Ed Brody was the first person to initially notice the "dubious scenes" which depicted a group of men disappearing behind a bush followed by a page showing an old lady so shocked with what she sees her glasses are popping off her face.

"Somewhat dubious scenes spotted in the background of a friend's 4yo's school book," he wrote, sparking a controversy which has led to other users pointing out further inappropriate scenes in children's books.

Oxford University Press have since responded to the claims protesting book author Roderick Hunt's innocence.

"Interesting spot but some of the pages are missing from this title!" it wrote. "We can reassure you nothing untoward is going on behind that bush."

In a statement, the publisher continued: "We take the utmost care to ensure that our content is age appropriate and would not cause harm or offence to any child who reads our books."

The book, Pond Dipping, is part of the popular long-running educational series featuring the characters Biff, Chip, Kipper and their dog Floppy. The book was illustrated by Alex Brychta.

The news has seen other users share seemingly inappropriate moments from the book series including one which shows building blocks spelling out the word “hepatitis” - an image that the OUP removed in 2003 “as soon as it was drawn to our attention.”

Another moment depicts a girl's changing room in which a priest can be seen lurking in the background.

The learn-to-read book series, which features over 100 titles, was launched in 1986 and is a staple of children's classrooms.