Staff at a Shropshire car dealership braved the cold when they threw off their clothes for a charity calendar.

Workers at Inchcape VW used a few carefully selected props to protect their modesty in Calendar Girls-style poses in aid of the Severn Hospice. Volunteers from the branches at Shrewsbury, Oswestry, Telford and Bridgnorth all took part in the fun calendar.

Representatives from the management, receptionists, sales and the parts departments all agreed to be pin-ups.

And although most of the pictures were taken in the showroom, one shot was actually taken amongst the forecourt vehicle display, much to the surprise of passers-by and customers.

The calendar is now on sale at all of Inchcape’s showrooms around the county. The Severn Hospice’s is the company’s charity of the year for 2007.

Severn Hospice fundraising officer Val Walters said: “I think it was very brave of them to pose for the calendar, especially as the pictures were only taken three weeks ago when it was very cold.

“The one shot that was taken outside must have surprised a few motorists going past at the time.

“We are delighted that Inchcape has chosen us as its charity of the year. It has already held a concert at Myddle Church and a car washing event that raised more than £1,200 earlier in the year.

“They are also planning a variety of events in the new year. Staff have also been a practical help as some of them built a new patio at the hospice which the patients will use when the warm weather returns,” she added.

“They brought the diggers along for the day and helped with some of the heavy manual lifting. Hopefully there is more to come as we have a very good relationship.

“The calendar was certainly team building with a difference for their staff,” she added.

Copies of the calendars will also be on sale at Severn Hospice shops. They cost £7 each, or £6 each for two copies, and £5 for three or more.