Herald Express (Torbay, Brixham & South Hams Edition)
Fishermen’s mission is to strip off for charity
BOLD Brixham fishermen are baring all for a new naughty-but-nice calendar they hope will net some much-needed cash for a charity with a vital mission for the fleet.
The Brixham Fishermen’s Calendar features a dozen saucy shots of skippers and crew on board their vessels – with just a strategically placed glove, lifebelt or even a fish – to cover their modesty.
Baz Chappell, who is Mr January as well as Mr November, said: “It all started as a bit of a joke. One of the lads took a picture of me at sea in the buff. It got back and everybody said ‘do a calendar’.
“It was good to be able to do it for the Fishermen’s Mission. When times are hard and things aren’t going so well at sea, we rely on the Mission to help us and support our families.”
James Vivash (Mr December) added: “It was a no-brainer to do it for the Fishermen’s Mission. It’s a privilege to be able to give something back.”
After seeing the picture of Baz in the buff on board the Geeske out at sea, Alan Letcher and Sue Petford of the Brixham Fish Town Facebook group got their heads together and the calendar was born, with photographer Alan taking all the pictures. He said: “I honestly felt so embarrassed asking men to strip off. It wasn’t easy! But it was great fun to do. They felt proud to be involved and to help fellow fishermen out.”
Calendars were selling like hot cakes at the launch event at the Berry Head Hotel on Monday, and all the money raised will go to the Fishermen’s Mission.
Superintendent Matt Skinner of the Mission told the audience: “Behind every fisherman there is a family, and they are relying on that fisherman to come in with his catch. When that money comes in, the bills are paid and life is good.
“But there are also bad weeks when the fishermen can’t manage that repayment or can’t get their children school shoes, and that’s where the Mission comes in. That’s the service the men in the calendar have done. They have made it possible for us to continue our work. We are there to help feed people and help them pay their rent.”
Calendars are in stock at outlets including Ace Taxis, Tides, The Fudge Shop, Coastal Gifts and the Hideaway Tea Room as well as the Mission online.