SUPERMARKET workers are baring all in a calendar to raise money for charity.

The men and women from Asda have posed behind strategically placed melons, beer and Christmas presents for the calendar, which was launched last Thursday.

In a project that mirrors the infamous efforts of the Rylstone and District Women's Institute, staff from Bishop Auckland, have posed for the camera, in aid of The Butterwick Hospice.

It was an idea that arose from a casual conversation between Sylvia Stoneham, fundraiser for the hospice and events co-ordinator at Asda, John Bowman.

Mrs Stoneham said: "It was just a casual conversation and now all of a sudden it is a reality.

"It is amazing. I am really really pleased with it. If all the calendars are sold it will raise £5,000 for the hospice and that will be fantastic.''

Professional photographer Keith Taylor, of Spennymoor, gave up his free time for the project.

He said: "I was happy to give my time for the project because the hospice is a very, very good cause.

"The brief was that the pictures had to be in very good taste. Everybody that was in the calendar was partly dressed so I had to take the pictures at an angle that would make them look like they weren't wearing anything at all.

"The staff at Asda were really enthusiastic. So many of them had never done anything like this before and they did a really good job.''

John Bowman, who can be seen hiding behind Santa's beard and a Christmas present, said that he was looking forward to the calendar going on sale.

He said: "We wanted to do something outrageous for the hospice that the whole store would support.

"Seeing as though we are a daft bunch we thought this would be a great idea. We are just hoping it will be a success.''

The calendar is now on sale at Asda, and other venues in Bishop Auckland, priced £4.