Participant calls charity strip “bravest thing I’ve ever done”

A woman who participated in a charity event involving stripping has characterized the experience as “the bravest thing I’ve ever done”. Carey Fluker, aged 61, is featured on the January page of a calendar produced by the Rothbury Women’s Institute (WI), an initiative that has already generated over £7,000. Although the endeavor was challenging for all participants, Mrs Fluker, a resident of the Northumberland market town, stated that her initial apprehension made her hesitant to consider joining. She further commented, “From the outset I said it wasn’t for me, so the fact I finally took my clothes off and sat being photographed in the freezing cold is unbelievable,” while also urging others to “step out of their comfort zone”. The group previously undertook a skinny dip at dawn in September 2023 at Sugar Sands, Longhoughton, as a fundraising effort for HospiceCare North Northumberland. Mrs Fluker recounted, “When that was suggested my first thought was a definite no.” She explained her reservations, stating, “I’ve never taken my clothes off in public, I’m not particularly body confident, I didn’t feel I measured up.” However, she added, “But the WI members are very kind and supportive so I did it.” Following the skinny dip, the members resolved that their subsequent fundraising initiative would be to create a “naked” calendar for the identical charity. Describing the experience, she stated, “On the morning of the shoot I felt like I was going to my execution, I didn’t actually cry, but I felt close to it.” She continued, “It was exceedingly cold, and I was naked for half an hour in some woods while the pictures were being taken.” She humorously recalled, “A labrador suddenly appeared at one point with its owner not far behind, and we had to put a blanket round me very quickly.” The calendar is currently undergoing its third print run, with aspirations that the ultimate fundraising sum will surpass £10,000. Mrs Fluker indicated that her participation was “to celebrate life and being positive”. She elaborated, “It was about feeling empowered and solidarity with older women, being visible, being seen and just stepping out of your comfort zone with some lovely friends.” Follow BBC North East on X, Facebook, Nextdoor and Instagram. Send your story ideas to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.