Naked rambler Stephen Gough is languishing in jail once more after a brief taste of freedom.

He was released from court last Friday and re-arrested within a few paces of the exit for breach of the peace. He was wearing only his rucksack.

Gough was yesterday denied bail when his case came up at Edinburgh Sheriff Court. He was also refused the opportunity of appearing in person because he refused to dress.

The 48-year-old, from Eastleigh, Hampshire, gained notoriety for his 2003 Land’s End to John O’Groats attempt wearing only boots, socks and a rucksack. A further naked walk the length of Britain two years later led to his being arrested frequently, particularly north of the Border. He has been pulled by the police more than 20 times.

The ex-Marine now faces his 13th charge in relation to his campaign to be allowed to walk naked.