A woman believed to be Britain’s most tattooed mum has revealed she is staying home this Mother’s Day – to avoid “scaring off” pub lunch customers.
With over 800 tattoos, Melissa Sloan is covered head-to-toe in elaborate inkings, which often attract “staring” when she is out in public.
As a result, the 47-year-old has taken to laying low and avoiding situations where she might garner attention – such as at pubs and restaurants where many families gather for a Mothering Sunday roast.
“I wanted to go for a pub meal with my kids but I can’t as I might scare the other customers away,” the mum-of-seven, from Kidderminster, told What’s The Jam.
“People stare at me whenever I leave the house, and they always move out of the way if they pass me in the streets.
“It’s crazy.
“I’m used to it by now, but going out for meals makes it even worse.
“I’m worried that one day people will actually leave the restaurant because of the way I look.
“My children used to ask why people were always staring at me.
“They aren’t so bothered now, as we’re all used to it, but it’s not nice to be on the receiving end.
“Sadly, people just can’t seem to accept me, so I’ll be staying at home this Mother’s Day.
“It’s not worth all the attention.”
Melissa’s inkings cover much of her body and face, leading her to cover up with thick foundation when she leaves the house.
She previously said strangers “won’t leave me alone” and feels that she “shouldn’t have to hide”.
She added: “My tattoos should be accepted and understood.
“It gets tiring having to avoid public places due to the way I look and people lacking understanding.
“While it can be a major inconvenience, I don’t regret my tattoos – I love the way I look.
“If other people can’t handle it, that’s their problem.”
As for her children? She says they don’t mind her alternative look one bit.
The mum added: “My kids love me for me.”
Melissa previously revealed that she feels she is unable to go on holiday this year and is “forced” to remain in the UK – as she worries that people will be “scared” to sit next to her on flights.
She said: “I feel as though a holiday abroad is out of the question for me.
“I’ll draw a lot of attention just walking through the airport and I’m worried about being flagged by staff.
“Judgemental tourists will stare at me constantly and I just don’t want to deal with it.
“Even when getting on the plane – I know people will be too scared to be in the seat next to me.
“It’s awful as I’d love to take my kids abroad this summer but I just don’t feel comfortable travelling.”
