In a cheeky twist on the classic charity calendar, a dozen brave business owners from Shepton have (almost) bared all for the Shepton Mallet Bare Business Calendar – raising money for a local food project and turning plenty of heads in the process.

"It's been a rough year on the High Street," organisers said. "So we thought, let's end 2025 with a laugh, a bit of nudity, and some much-needed love for our independents."

Bar 501 launch party set for December 3rd

The big reveal – quite literally – happens at Bar 501 on Wednesday 3rd December from 6pm, where the calendar will officially launch. Expect drinks, giggles, and probably a few awkward reunions with familiar faces now known in a lot more detail.

From tyre fitters to vintage shops, cobblers to cafés, twelve local businesses stripped back (and braved the Somerset chill) to show just how committed they are to their community. The project went from idea to print in just three weeks, with local photographers Dan Simon and Kayse Corney capturing the goods.

£10 calendar, £2 to Shepton Community Fridge

Calendars cost £10, with £2 from every sale going to the Shepton Community Fridge, a volunteer-run project that redistributes surplus food to families in need.

"It's about visibility – for our businesses and for the fridge," said a spokesperson. "If it gets people talking, laughing, and shopping local, it's done its job. We're so proud of everyone who took part – and yes, we've all got clothes on again now."

Only available in Shepton – while stocks last

You won't find these online. Calendars are available from Friday 28th November, only from these Shepton shops:

• Dredge and Male
• Junk & Disorderly
• The Shepton Cobbler
• Bar 501
• The Black Thistle
• The Little Farm Shed
• Minsky's
• Lethal Postmen Vintage
• Phillips Tyres
• Shepton Artists
• The Artistry

For live stock updates (the calendar, not the models), check #sheptonbarebiz on social media.

So if you fancy seeing your favourite shopkeepers as you've never seen them before – and doing something good for the community while you're at it – you know what to do.

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