Not sure I’ve ever had something from the Sun, so:
A PENSIONER who dresses as a Roman gladiator and calls himself Maximus Decimus Meridius has admitted his obsession may be “over the top”.
Tony Barnatt Jose, a retired lorry driver, has devoted his life to the ancient empire — turning his house into a shrine and even making pilgrimages to Rome.
His fixation was sparked when he saw Russell Crowe’s epic movie Gladiator.
The 66-year-old grandfather has adorned the walls of his terraced home in Durham with shields, helmets, masks, pictures and cuttings.
He spends hours poring over books and watching films about the Roman Empire and wears a full suit of replica armour.
Mr Barnatt said: “After seeing Gladiator, I read a book about Hannibal, the military commander.
“I started going to the library and reading more about Roman history, going to Roman forts and collecting antiquities.
“Since then my obsession has just got worse and worse.
“The Romans left such a legacy all over the world. Even now, Rome carries on — even in America with the Senate.”
He added: “Everybody knows me as Maximus Decimus Meridius. Lots of people think I am mad.
“But so what, as long as it doesn’t harm anyone. I really enjoy it. The clothes and armour look real and I think they’re really great.”
Mr Jose estimates his Roman fascination now takes up three-quarters of his time.
The front door of his house bears the nameplate Rome and the house number is in Roman numerals.
His desk is a production line for homemade scrolls, armour and his next weapon — although the law prevents him from carrying a real sword.
He is now offering to attend events and parties in his gladiator costume, to raise cash for charity.
via Rome devotee: Call me Maximus | The Sun |News.
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