A GROUP of friends have taken to the countryside to create a cheeky calendar to raise funds for charity in the memory of a popular man who died in a car crash last year.

Twenty-four women from the Bromyard and Leominster area almost bared all in a variety of country pursuits poses for the Game Birds 2013 calendar in an attempt to raise £10,000 for the Midlands Air Ambulance to honour the life of Richard Warr.

The 21-year-old, of Pencombe, and who worked at Laylocks Garden Centre, Bromyard Road, Worcester, died when his Mazda pick-up truck collided with a Seat Ibiza near Bayton, Herefordshire, on Friday, August 5, 2011.

Zoe Hooper, who thought of and organised the project which was shot by Mr Warr’s sister Gemma Thomas, said: “Over the past few months we have worked very hard, and lots have people have given up their time, not to mention their dignity, to make this a cheeky, yet classy and creative masterpiece and the work continues.”

She added the calendar was inspired by Mr Warr’s zest for life.

“It could be said that Rich had a way with the ladies and appreciated the female form, but that would be an extreme understatement. He also loved the great outdoors and country sports, especially shooting and was always up for trying daring challenges and new experiences.”

With the help of sponsorship from local businesses they hope to donate 100 per cent of the proceeds to the charity, and the calendar will be officially launch at the charity’s Strensham air base on Saturday, November 3 at 2pm.

Laylocks Garden Centre was started by Richard’s father Martin Warr in 1973.

The present site – off the A44 Worcester to Bromyard Road – was bought in 1981.

For more information go to gamebirdscalendar.co.uk.