WEARING little more than a smile and a strategically placed copy of the County Press, game Calbourne residents have been getting their kit off for a good cause.
Inspired by the film Calendar Girls, about a group of WI members who strip for charity, staff and regulars at the village’s Sun Inn pub have starred in their own nude calendar to raise money for fellow Calbourne resident Mike Hailes, injured in a cycling accident earlier this year.
He is currently receiving rehabilitation treatment at Salisbury Hospital.
"Mike is a well-known chap locally and this is an idea driven by local people who wanted to help," said Kate Goldson, who runs the Sun Inn with her sister, Sandra Mabley.
"People did struggle with the nudity initially but the pictures are very tasteful as we didn’t want to offend anyone. We wanted it to be light-hearted and fun, to raise money and give people a laugh at the same time.
"The response has been great. We have had people crying with laughter and saying it’s the funniest thing they’ve seen in ages."
The calendar is the brainchild of Brighstone resident and keen photographer Dennis Thon, also known as Mr April.
He said: "People did need a bit of persuading to take their clothes off but I showed them the picture of me and they thought it was a giggle. It’s the first time I have done anything like this and it was great fun."
Almost 400 copies of the £7.99 calendar have been sold so far, raising more than £3,000 to buy Mike a bespoke wheelchair.
It is available to buy at the New Inn, Shalfleet, and Brighstone Stores, as well as the Sun Inn and the County Press shop. Newport retailers include Joyce’s Bakery Cafe, Market Bakery and the Crispin Inn.
Businesses wishing to stock the calendar can call Dennis on 01983 740348.
Reporter: emilyp@iwcpmail.co.uk