Rugby players (almost) bare all for charity

From a naked rugby match to nude pints in the pub, the players posed at a number of locations throughout West Berkshire, including the Henwisk Worthy Sports Ground, Thatcham, and a the Spotted Dog, Cold Ash, covering their modesty with objects, from rugby balls to pints of beer.
Half of the funds raised by the sale of the calender will go towards the building of a new clubhouse at Henwick Worthy sports field, Bath Road, which is required owing to an increase in membership numbers, while the other half will be donated to the Newbury and District Cancer Care Trust.
Among the naked ranks was Damian Hudson, aged 39, who said: “I enjoyed taking part. It was very light hearted and relaxed and when you think about the good causes the money is going to, it makes it worthwhile.
“I was in the snow pictures so was pretty cold, which was not ideal, [but] it’s not too bad, once you get the first shot done.”
Annabelle Hudson, who organised the calendar alongside photographers Mark Jobson and Christopher Sheridan, said: “The club chose [the] charity after Thatcham RFC coach Roger Rance lost his battle against cancer a few years ago. We all know someone who has benefited from the fabulous work they do.
“It’s a bit of fun. Everyone loves a rugby player and rugby players don’t need much persuasion to get naked!”
This is the second time the team members have been shot with in the buff, having previously raised £4,500 for the Newbury and District Cancer Care Trust in a naked calendar in 2011.
The calendars cost £8 each, or £15 for two, and can be purchased online at www.thatchamrfc.co.uk or by emailing touchrugby@thatchamrfc.co.uk or in-store at iStyle Hair and Beauty, Hambridge Road.