Melling woman and Aughton man strip off for Air Ambulance

Oct 9 2008 by Katie Grant, Ormskirk Advertiser

Harold Snape (left) and Laura Brislin (right) bare all

TWO brave local fundraisers have stripped down to their bare essentials to raise money for the North West Air Ambulance.

Melling resident Laura Brislin and Harold Snape, of Aughton, are among 28 cheeky chappies who have dropped their drawers to pose alongside the region’s emergency helicopter for a saucy calendar.

The pair took part in ‘Bare In The Air 2009’ after responding to an advert calling for volunteers.

But the pair did not overdo their bit for charity - parts of the aircraft and a pair of strategically-placed props ensured both retained a degree of modesty.

Laura, speaking to the Ormskirk Advertiser, said: “My mum works for the charity and I ended up getting involved and helping her do some of the makeup for the girls.

The 29-year-old said:“I was a little bit hesitant at first – I made sure I was the last one to get photographed.

“But when you think about where the money is going it’s worth it. It was great fun and there was a lot of camaraderie.”

Harold’s wife, Joy, from Aughton, said she thought the calendar was an original idea and was amused at her husband’s racy picture.

“I think it’s great – absolutely great, and the Air Ambulance really need the funds.

“There’s nothing dirty about it, it’s just harmless, innocent fun – it’s all good fun.”

Another willing participant was Granada TV presenter Paul Crone, who now becomes Mr December.

The 46-year-old said: “It was so nerve-wracking taking my kit off, and trying to smile whilst being starkers, but it is all for a good cause. I’m expecting huge amounts of fan mail from women - asking me to put my clothes back on!”

So far, 3,500 calendars have been sold, with a reprint of 2,000 already underway, though the initiative is not without controversy.

Air Ambulance partner, the North West Ambulance Service has decided not to sell the calendar, and has distanced itself from the project.

A spokesman said: “NWAS has had no involvement or prior knowledge of the production of this calendar and neither supports nor endorses its publication.

“The trust has a clear duty to protect the dignity at work of its staff and in the light of concerns raised by some members of staff regarding the nature of the content of this calendar is not allowing its sale from NWAS premises.”

The colour calendar costs just £5 and is now on sale at Booths supermarkets and on the charity’s website www.nwaa.net