A new craze is sweeping the nation. Known as 'furring' – it involves ‘furries’ or ‘furverts’ (as they are variously known) dressing up as animals of the cartoon variety.
According to an informed source furries "…might imagine themselves as a cute rabbit inspired by Bugs Bunny, a unicorn from Disney's Fantasia, or a werewolf from Japanese anime films".
Initially this was an online phenomenon: "The activity consists primarily of creating or collecting illustrations of their own imaginary furry character and roleplaying online in multi-user dungeons."
But many furries are taking their activities outside the realm of the computer and meeting face to face.
One enthusiast known in the furry circle as ‘Paddington’, told the Metro: "St Austell [in Cornwall] is fast becoming a hotbed for furries since a new group started up.
"We're a group of people who like things to do with animals and enjoy the great outdoors."
Tina Patterson, owner of a fancy dress-hire shop in St Austell, said: "I wonder where my costumes go sometimes. Some of my fur suits come back in a right state.
