A GROUP of Benson women are taking part in a vintage pin-up calendar to raise money for the Royal British Legion.

After a request on Facebook for models, 26 women were picked from more than 165 applicants by photographer Nikki Prince.

RAF Benson resident Charlotte Bayley, 32 – wife of Flight Sergeant Steve Bayley, 37, of 230 Squadron – is one of the women taking part, with friends Jenny Phillpott, Nikki Knowles, Lauren Hamilton and Jen Swift.

As well as appearing in the calendar, Mrs Bayley is also joining other miltary wives in extra fundraising events like cake sales, marathons and a zipline ride between two mountains in Wales.

She said: “I sent in a picture of myself, not expecting it to get chosen but it did, which was quite a surprise.

“The calendar is about boosting the confidence of ordinary women and giving something back to our community.

“When our husbands go away, people are always very supportive so we wanted to repay the favour. And meeting other military wives in the UK has actually brought lots of us from different forces together.”

The 2015 calendar is set to be launched at the end of the year and they hope it will raise £5,000.

The Royal British Legion was chosen for fundraising to coincide with First World War centenary commemorations.

A spokesman for The Royal British Legion said: “We value the enthusiasm and commitment of fundraisers such as Charlotte, Jenny, Nikki and Jen, whose inspirational efforts will no doubt inspire others to help raise money for the Legion.

“Donations generated will make a real difference to the lives of Armed Forces families who need our support.”

To donate to Mrs Bayley’s cause, visit www.justgiving.com/charlottebayleyrbl