THE delights of the North York Moors have always been popular with walkers, dressed in sturdy clothing to protect themselves from the vagaries of the weather.

But a new breed of hiker has begun to step out boldly across the heather, and clothing is the last thing on their minds - or their bodies. Nudists have apparently started to give the cold shoulder - or whatever - to naturist beaches, and are opting instead for the more rugged joys of the National Park.

Despite the risks of wind or rain, they have been braving the often chilly landscape without a care, or a stitch, to be seen.

And although the moors are popular all year round with more conventional hikers, there has not been a single peep of complaint from holidaymakers or residents.

The National Park's tourism officer, Bill Breakell, said there had been several occasions when groups of naturists had sauntered on to the moors.

"No one seem to have taken any offence and that's probably because the naturists have been very discreet," he said.

"The only problems with the moors park is that farmers may have to be a little more careful where they put barbed wire fences."

The trend for rambling and jogging across the country's moors and mountains while wearing nothing but a birthday suit is said to be gathering momentum.

According to the British Naturist Association, a growing number of executives and company bosses are joining their ranks - and even going rock climbing in the all-together.

Groups of nude walkers have grown from three or four people a decade ago to parties of two dozen, says the organisation.

Just be very, very careful of those taller thistles.