A dozen out of their shell for cancer

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MUSSEL MAIDEN: Tania Varcoe models a mussel shell in Havelock's main street.

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Twelve bold Havelock women have fronted up as "calendar girls" to raise funds for breast cancer and the fire service.

One of the more daring, Tania Varcoe, posed for her photograph outside The Mussel Pot restaurant wearing nothing but a big mussel shell.

Unexpectedly, the InterCity coachline cruised by in time to view the mussel maiden as the camera clicked. "I was shocked, as I use those buses to go to Christchurch and I knew the driver, but as I am normally dressed I don't think he recognised me," she said.

"The passengers stared, as they would, seeing a female outside a restaurant with no clothes on dressed only in a mussel shell."

Ms Varcoe, a hairdresser, works with Blush and owns Metamorphosis, a beauty therapy and massage business.

"Being famous in Havelock is great, but I will avoid nude shots in future."

The photos of the pin-up girls, which include a new mum, volunteer fire fighter, nurse, retailer, real estate agent and publican, are a little naughty but not offensive.

The brains behind the calendar, ship broker Pat Copp, said it would put a smile on faces and show Havelock's innovative spirit and character.

Calendars will be on sale for $15 at a Pink Ribbon Breakfast at the Slip Inn at 10am on Sunday, with proceeds going to the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation and Havelock Fire Service. Comedian Jon Gadsby from the television series McPhail and Gadsby and Letter to Blanchy will compere the brunch.

Prizes will go to the best dressed man and woman and a lucky ticket holder.

Pink Ribbon Breakfast tickets are $25 each; $10 will to go to the New Zealand Breast Cancer Foundation.

Tickets are available by calling Pauline McMahon on 035742260, or 021995803 or Pat Copp on 021658308.

- The Marlborough Express