Rowers braved the autumn cold and stripped off to raise money.

City of Oxford Rowing Club members posed naked for the club's 2003 calendar, with only strategically placed rowing equipment to protect their modesty.

It is hoped the black and white calendar will raise much-needed funds to replace worn equipment as well as help the club support its chosen charities, the British Heart Foundation and the Arthritis Research Centre.

The club's women's captain, Christine Ahern, and social secretary Caro Barnes teamed up to cajole a cross-section of members, including veterans, senior and novice squads, to bare all for the cause.

Ms Ahern said: "The idea came out of a brainstorm we were having about how to raise money for new equipment as well as support some charities which are very close to the members' hearts.

"We also wanted to show how fit and photogenic our members were from all their hard training!"

Rowers were photographed by Michael Barnes in scenic settings along the river Thames.

The calendars, on sale at the club bar in Meadow Lane, Oxford, cost £12, with ten per cent of takings being split between the two chosen charities.

Copies are available by calling 01865 242576.