Naturist group wants Cork hikers to shed their clothes and inhibitions

'It is of great benefit to your self-confidence,' says one of the organisers. 'While there might be a reluctance at first, many people trying naturism for the first time have trouble putting their clothes back on at the end'

Photographer Spencer Tunick's nude installation at Blarney Castle in 2008. Picture: Dan Linehan

The Irish Naturist Association is hoping more Cork people will shed their inhibitions as well as their clothes following a successful event that saw people from all walks of life hike naked through Mitchelstown.

Friday saw like-minded individuals come together to mark World Naked Hiking Day.