WHILE most Launceston Rugby Club supporters only see the players in their famous black kit at Polson Bridge on Saturday afternoons throughout the season, they may soon get to see a number of them up, close and personal thanks to a new club calendar to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK.

Club legend Crispin Earle has been battling the disease for a number of months and when captain Lloyd Duke was informed of his condition, he wanted to act.

Lloyd said: “I’ve thought about doing something like this for a couple of years, but when I found out about Crispin’s diagnosis I felt that I should do something, so we came up with a calendar for next year.

“The first port of call was Ian Rocks who does our matchday photos, and he was more than happy to help.

“I then spoke to as many businesses as I could to sell sponsorship to raise more funds and got 12 to do it. We then went to all of the businesses in September for a photo, although it wasn’t overly easy to fit it in when everyone is available, but we got it done and then one of our coaches Glyn Hutchings at Launceston Print, printed them.”

The calendar, which reveals plenty, went on sale for the first time on November 17 at the club before their 66-15 victory over Devonport Services, and Duke hopes as many people as possible will get involved.

He said: “They’re on sale at Greenaways garage, Flower Scene, Rocks Locks and at the club, and we will be at Tesco on Sunday, December 9, so if people want to get hold of one then go to those places or Tesco.

“It only costs £10 and all profits will go to Prostate Cancer UK. We had a right laugh doing it although a few of the players who are often the louder ones in the changing room took a bit of a backward step.

“Saturday was the first time we saw the calendar and it sounds like we sold a fair few. The women were having a right laugh although it’s probably aimed more for the female audience.

“We just want to sell as many as we can to raise as much money as possible for a cause that is now very close to our hearts.

“I’d like to say a massive thank you to all the businesses, Ian and all of the players that took part.”