'Charity strip was the bravest thing I've done'

A woman who agreed to strip off for charity has described it as "the bravest thing I've ever done".

Carey Fluker, 61, features on the January page of the calendar by Rothbury Women's Institute (WI), which has already raised more than £7,000.

While none of the women found it easy, Mrs Fluker, from the Northumberland market town, said she was initially too nervous to consider taking part.

"From the outset I said it wasn't for me, so the fact I finally took my clothes off and sat being photographed in the freezing cold is unbelievable," she added, as she encouraged others to "step out of their comfort zone".

In September 2023, the group did a skinny dip at dawn at Sugar Sands, Longhoughton, to raise money for HospiceCare North Northumberland.

"When that was suggested my first thought was a definite no," Mrs Fluker said.

"I've never taken my clothes off in public, I'm not particularly body confident, I didn't feel I measured up.

"But the WI members are very kind and supportive so I did it."

After the skinny dip, members decided the next step would be to put together a "naked" calendar for the same charity.

"On the morning of the shoot I felt like I was going to my execution, I didn't actually cry, but I felt close to it," she said.

"It was exceedingly cold, and I was naked for half an hour in some woods while the pictures were being taken.

"A labrador suddenly appeared at one point with its owner not far behind, and we had to put a blanket round me very quickly," she laughed.

The calendar is now on its third print run and it is hoped the final fundraising total will be above £10,000.

Mrs Fluker said she took part "to celebrate life and being positive".

"It was about feeling empowered and solidarity with older women, being visible, being seen and just stepping out of your comfort zone with some lovely friends."

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