Naked Rambler fined after nude trek through Calderdale

Stephen Gough, 53, of Hampshire, known as the Naked Rambler, was arrested in Halifax town centre, on October 25, 2012, for walking the streets dressed in nothing but boots and socks.

Appearing naked in the dock Gough was found guilty of being naked at Bull Green, Halifax, causing members of the public, including children, distress, in breach of the Public Order Act.

Court proceedings were slightly delayed in an attempt to usher Gough through the court without causing alarm or distress to the public after magistrates had previously ruled that Gough could appear naked in the court.

The court heard that the former Royal Marine turned Naked Rambler was released from Halifax police station having been arrested after reports from the public in Hebden Bridge on October 25, 2012.

Gough was then re-arrested in Bull Green, Halifax, as he continued in his naked pursuit, wearing only boots and socks and carrying a map.

The court heard that a witness who was with several children, had to cover their eyes as she looked on in “horror and disgust”. A shocked child onlooker called police to report the incident, the court heard.

Magistrates found the father of two, who has 26 convictions of similar offences, guilty of breaching the Public Order Act. He was fined £100 and must pay £20 victim surcharge. Gough was sent back to prison ahead of facing similar charges elsewhere in the UK.

Gough is pursuing legal proceedings against the UK Government over his human right to be naked in public.