Cal Gaunt
A ‘professional hugger’ who charges £75 an hour has insisted that their services are ‘not s**ual’.
Bristol-based Treasure appeared on ITV’s This Morning and explained to hosts Josie Gibson and Craig Doyle how their unusual trade works.
They said: “The session begins with us getting to know each other in a non-contact environment.
Find out more about professional cuddling in the clip below…
“After that, it’s whatever you would like.”
Craig got to try out Treasure’s cuddling skills before Josie probed them on whether their job was ever misinterpreted as being se*ual.
Treasure said: “Yes, I totally understand why they think that and it’s okay, but it’s not like that.”
If and when this issue arises, they explained: “We talk about that and put that outside of the session.”
Treasure explained that would-be clients are vetted over the phone or by meeting in person to ensure a connection will work.
Viewers were seemingly enthralled in the segment with many hoping they might be able to sample Treasure’s services.
One tweeted: “Haven’t stopped smiling for 5 minutes. I want to hug this man! #ThisMorning.”
Another said: “If anyone wants a hug I’m available for free. I’ll even make you a cuppa #ThisMorning.”
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A third added: “Am I losing it or are these lot bonkers, I am sure you can hug your friend, family or pet. If that’s the case I’m going to start charging £25 for a hug, game on! #ThisMorning.”
Later in the segment, Treasure added: “It’s more than just hugging a stranger.
“I built a business based on my passions for building human connections. Many people struggle to make those and that’s where I step in. It’s more than just cuddling, it’s giving people the things they need, whatever that might be.
“With cuddle therapists, you’re hiring their time, attention and care. It’s more than just hugging a stranger. Some people do find it a little awkward at first, but that’s totally normal, and they quickly feel comfortable.”
Some viewers also noticed Treasure had a celebrity lookalike in fitness coach Joe Wicks.
“So I ordered Joe Wicks off wish.com,” one joked.
Another said: “The professional hugger looks sooooo much like Joe Wicks!”
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