A CHAMPION bodybuilder is hoping to set female hearts a-flutter by starting a strippers' group to rival the Chippendales.

As a former amateur bodybuilding star, Richard Wild is no stranger to strutting his stuff for an admiring audience.

Now he hopes to build on his reputation by setting up a dance troupe to perform in the region.

The 29-year-old, who lives in Red Lion Street, Redcar, said it should prove popular among women looking for a fun night out.

"I hope to attract about five men, and I've already got one bloke who's interested," he said.

"We will perform in nightclubs and similar venues. Basically, we'll be available to whoever wants us.

"I'm hoping the group will be a real success."

Mr Wild, who owns RMTech, a car painting business in Warrenby, near Redcar, has attempted to set up a dance group once before.

But he claims that pressure from suspicious girlfriends caused the break-up of Take This.

"Members dropped out because their girlfriends were against the group, but hopefully this time it won't be a problem," he said.

While the act will be raunchy, with the group stripping down to tiny G-strings, Mr Wild said it will stop short of the Full Monty.

"We won't be taking everything off," he said.

"I think more people will like the act if we leave something to the imagination."

l Any confident man with a reasonable physique who is interested in joining the group should contact Mr Wild on 07946 126 322.