Get chained up for history demo (From Stroud News and Journal)

Get chained up for history demo

DEMONSTRATING handcuffs and chains to women's institutes may sound slightly kinky but to Alex Nichols it is serious business.

Mr Nichols is currently looking for an assistant who is prepared to be chained up - but all in the best possible taste.

"We are not talking kinky stuff," said the sprightly 73-year old grandfather.

Mr Nichols from Kingscourt has an avid interest in the historical and sociological use of restraints.

"It is a serious interest in the view of restraint practices ," said the retired probation officer and classical music lover.

Alex is looking for a male or female to help with displays. "I am looking for a helper but unfortunately I have to be a bit fussy because of the size of the prison uniforms I use. I need someone of a slim build."

Mr Nichols however has not had the world beating a path to his door. "Getting someone who is prepared to perform in public in this way isn't easy. I am looking for a person who is really interested in this subject and would like to learn more about it."

Alex is fascinated by the working's of restraint equipment. His particularly passion revolves around transportation restraints which are used on prisoners to chain their wrists to their ankles.

And he recently published a full scale textbook on the subject and he personally owns a large collection of restraint equipment.

"Most of my collection is displayed at the Museum of Law at the Galleries of Justice in Nottingham and I also have some items which date back to Victorian times, on display at Tetbury Police Museum," he said.

Alex would like to hear from anyone interested in becoming his assistant. He can be contacted on 01453 873396 or E-mail: Alex84610@aol.com. Or check out the Website www.Alexhandcuffs.telinco.co.uk

For more Stroud-based stories, see this week's Stroud News & Journal.