Robbie Williams gets out in gorilla suit

Robbie Williams has made his first public appearance in three months – wearing a gorilla suit.

The reclusive star has spent the entire summer holed up in his Los Angeles mansion, but emerged yesterday (23.09.08) wearing the outfit, and a pair of sunglasses, which he had purchased from a local fancy dress store.

The shop manager said: "He spent a long time trying various costumes before he chose the gorilla suit and bought it for $60."

Robbie – who recently split from long-term girlfriend Ayda Field – insisted on changing into the bizarre outfit before leaving the shop, and then strolled around Hollywood holding hands with a mystery woman.

The 'Angels' singer has become increasingly obsessed with aliens in recent months, and friends are said to fear for his mental state. Ex-girlfriend Tara Palmer-Tomkinson said: "Of course I'm worried for Robbie. He's a genius and when you're that smart and have been in the public eye for so long you want to escape."

It is believed the 34-year-old star's fascination with UFOs was a major factor in his split with Ayda. The pair's relationship allegedly hit the rocks because the 29-year-old actress wanted a partying lifestyle, whereas Robbie is only interested in spotting UFOs and playing golf.

Only last week, Robbie was identified as a prime alien abduction target by extraterrestrial expert Michael C. Luckman. He said: "Robbie is now becoming a point man for contact with extraterrestrials. Robbie could easily disappear and then come back as an ambassador for their race."