Workers bare all to raise awareness of skin cancer

Mechanics and drivers at RJC Plant Services stripped off for a charity calendar

A group of plant workers have stripped off and posed for a calendar to support a skin cancer charity.

The 11 men from RJC Plant Services in Church Fenton, near York, were photographed on the site with their modesty covered by strategically-placed drills and helmets.

They wanted to support Melanoma UK after a friend of the business was diagnosed with the disease earlier this year.

The team also hoped to raise awareness of skin cancer among construction workers, who they said made up 44% of cases with vocational causes.

The company hoped to raise awareness of skin cancer and raise money for Melanoma UK

Speaking to BBC Radio York, co-director of RJC, Chris Jackson, explained that one of their drivers had come up with the plan while brainstorming ways to give back to the community.

"I thought it was a good idea, and now I’m Mr January," he said.

"We made a day of it, we fired up the barbecue and had a couple of beers to take the edge off a little bit."

Office manager Zena Jackson said that mechanics who worked in the yard and drivers all got involved with the modelling shoot.

"On the day, they were so supportive of each other and encouraging," she said.

"I, personally, am super proud of all the lads who took part in the calendar, it’s just such a great thing to do."

RJC provides road sweeper and grab hire services, so employees work mainly outdoors.

"A lot of these guys have their skin exposed to the sun and they need to be aware that it's risky," Ms Jackson said.

"I don’t think men think about using SPF and hats for protection as much as women do."

Since making the black and white calendar, the plant workers said they have thought twice about working without sun protection.

John Harrison, who was Mr December, said he did not know "anywhere near as much" about skin cancer risks before the calendar shoot.

"You think of the sun as being on holiday and not day to day," he said.

"Even just light, it can affect you."

Mr Jackson added he now kept a tube of suncream in every vehicle he drove.

'Crucial reminder'

The calendar would be available on the company's website for £10 and at Church Fenton's community-run village shop.

"There are a few eyebrows being raised," Mr Harrison said.

"There are a few older women who can’t wait for it to come out."

CEO of Melanoma UK, Mark Rawden, praised the men for raising awareness about skin cancer.

"It serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of protecting our skin during extended periods outdoors, especially for those working in industries with high sun exposure," he said.

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