DADS of youth rugby players in Thornbury are fundraising for the team’s new kit by posing for a calendar with theirs off.

The “Rugby Dads and Friends” calendar was made by the group of 14 dads of the Thornbury Rugby Club Broncos under-nine’s team, in a Calendar Girls-esque manner, sporting rugby boots and club socks, with a range of rugby or seasonal themed props being used to keep their dignity intact.

Dani Telka TRFC u9’s Manager says that “What started off as a funny idea quickly became a reality when, once again, community members began offering their time to take up a challenge even though it took a lot of courage.

“I think it not only shows the community’s dedication to supporting local causes but also illustrates the character and humour of the people involved in the club and from Thornbury in general.

“We wanted the calendar to be tongue-in-cheek without being offensive and due to the camaraderie that quickly developed between fellow models this was naturally achieved. We were also thrilled with how professional the calendars came out.”

Kimberley Wall, the team’s fundraiser, said: “The club’s membership fees are set at a minimal each year so that everyone can afford to enjoy the club no matter what the family’s financial situation; sporting opportunities should be available to everyone which is why the club also provide kit for the under-nine teams.

“However, this also means that each team aged 10 and over need to raise the funds for its own kit which was a challenge for next year considering we already have 32 children on the books. Therefore we needed an idea which would raise substantial funds but which also gave something back to our supporters. Hopefully this will be in the form of a smile and everyone needs a calendar each year so why not make it a local one?!”

The A3-sized calendars, which cost £10 each, can be pre-ordered through www.ebay.co.uk/itm/272467124106 and can either be collected from a Thornbury address or posted for an additional charge of £2.80.

Alternatively, the calendars can be purchased directly from the rugby club, the Black Horse pub, Surroundings in Thornbury, Butties or from Ricksink Tattooists from December 6.