KERRY Katona’s new bloke used to be a STRIPPER, the Daily Star can reveal.

The ex Atomic Kitten, 30, is said to be “very close” with Peter Andre’s tour manager, Carl Machin. And we can reveal Carl once performed as part of musical strip act Menergy, dubbed “the low rent Chippendales”.

The four-strong group used to strip for cash and perform raunchy dance moves across the country in the Nineties.

They also released cheesy pop single I’ve Never Been In Love Before.

Kerry and Carl, 37, have known each other for more than 10 years after he helped organise gigs for Atomic Kitten. They hadn’t seen each other for years until meeting earlier this year.

They were pictured fooling around and hugging when they went fishing together in May. And their cosy relationship has sparked rumours they are now dating.

Last week, Kerry, 30, and Carl, 37, were spotted holding hands as they shopped near Kerry’s Surrey home.

A source said: “There was real chemistry. It’s great for them.” A spokeswoman for Kerry said: “They are close, but not an item.”

Kerry, who has battled drugs and bankruptcy, is currently at the centre of a bitter divorce with second husband Mark Croft, 39.

SOURCE: Daily Star