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There was a time when then somewhat under-the-radar business of swinging was a, well, under-the-radar business – a quick plucking of a set of car keys from a bowl, a discreet registration with an 'adult' network, a quiet excursion to an out-of-the-way car park.

But not anymore.

Cracking open the fizz: The first European swingers' awards have been launched (Picture posed by models)

Nowadays, the European swinging community is so proud of the ins and outs of its activities that it has just launched its first 'industry' awards.

Of course, swingers don't call themselves swingers any more.

In 2014, they refer to their predilections as 'the lifestyle'.

Which explains why the 12 categories that have been announced as part of the inaugural Spice European Lifestyle Awards include the likes of 'Best Lifestyle Club', 'Best Lifestyle Couple Photograph', 'Best Lifestyle Blog' and 'Best Lifestyle Fashion Label'.

Grand plans: The awards are the brainchild of Spice Lanzarote, an adult resort in the Canary Islands

Or, to translate, 'Best Swingers' Club', 'Best Saucy Photo', 'Best Naughty Website' and 'Best Lingerie Producer'.

Other categories include 'Best Lifestyle Travel Agent' and 'Best Lifestyle Media' – while, as with all awards ceremonies, there is also a 'Lifetime Achievement Award'.

The gongs are the brainchild of Spice Lanzarote, an 'adult' resort in that markets itself as a 'paradise for naturists, libertines and genuinely curious couples seeking a liberated environment where sexual freedom is embraced'.

Three's a crowd: Awards categories include best club, best blog and best photo (Picture posed by models)

Based in Puerto del Carmen on the easternmost of the Canary Islands, the resort opened in 2010.

'The Lifestyle is hugely misunderstood,' says Tracy Isted of Spice Lanzarote.

'Awards such as this can bring greater awareness and consideration to our sector.'

The resort, she argues, has a wider appeal than many would think.

'People from all over the world come to Spice – successful, professional couples who want to try something less ordinary, from experienced swingers to curious couples.'

Do you come here often? Voting is open until the end of October (Picture posed by models)

'Our community is vast,' she continues. 'But people tend not to shout about it from their rooftops – so hopefully these awards can do some shouting for them.'

The voting process for the awards has already begun, with the categories open for suggestions until 25 May.

These nominations will be whittled down to a final five in each case – with voting on the winners running through to 30 October.

The victors will be toasted via a series of celebratory events at Spice Lanzarote in December.