A SELF-CONFESSED gimp who enjoys dressing head-to-toe in rubber before strolling around Colchester says trouble-makers are giving his hobby a bad name.

The Gimp Man of Essex, well known in his hometown for taking daring strolls in his bondage suit, said he is dismayed by the behaviour of another gimp in Somerset.

In October, two friends were surprised by a gimp wriggling around in the dirt and speaking tongues in the village of Cleeve.

A police helicopter and squad car were scrambled and a man was arrested.

The suspect was released on bail on the condition he does not leave his home between 9pm and 6am.

Police are said to be investigating up to 20 reported sightings of gimps in villages between Bristol and Weston-super-Mare since 2018.

The Gimp Man of Essex told the i newspaper: "This guy has undone everything the gimp community is trying to do. It gives us all a bad rep.

"Jumping out on women, however you’re dressed, isn’t right. There are innocent guys like me who go out on walks in their gimp suits. This guy is hiding around in the dark at night and scaring people lifeless. That’s different.

"I wouldn’t be surprised if alcohol or drugs were involved. They are asking for trouble terrorising people like that late at night."

Gazette: The Gimp Man of EssexThe Gimp Man of Essex (Image: The Gimp Man of Essex, Facebook)

A bondage suit, or "gimp suit", is usually made from PVC, leather or rubber, and is used in bondage, discipline, domination, submission, sadism and masochism (BDSM).

Speaking to the Gazette, the Gimp Man said he had raised around £3,000 for mental health charity Mid and North Essex MIND through his escapades.

What started out as a release from the grind of everyday life has become a means of doing some good.

He said: “I thought if I look like I’ve got a purpose – like I’m going shopping – that would help.

“The worst thing I could do is wander around looking frightened, or scared, or looking aggressive.

“I’ve always said I just walk about as if I’m in a jeans and T-shirt and it’s the most natural thing in the world.”

He added: “I’ve actually found it’s quite empowering. It’s basically like a little let-out from everyday life. The clothing is something all on its own, of course.

“Some people might go and sit on a riverbank, some might go to the pub, I go out and do this.

“I come back and I feel really good afterwards.”