With the launch of the Ladies First Charity Calendar 2027, Nub News is meeting the local women behind the project to discover the personal stories, passions and causes that inspired them to take part.

From stepping outside their comfort zones to raising money for charities close to their hearts, each woman has her own reason for getting involved. In this series, we find out their 'why' and what the experience has meant to them.

Jane Collier, Miss January - Leamington

For Jane Collier, taking part in the Ladies First Charity Calendar was a chance to mark her 60th birthday, alongside the leading calendar lady, Tracey McAtamney, in a memorable way, while raising money for a cause that has a deeply personal connection to her family.

Jane is supporting Prostate Cancer UK in memory of her dad, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer.

A photographer herself, Jane said she thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the calendar and welcomed the opportunity to give something back.

The experience has taken on an even greater significance in recent weeks, after Jane was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Jane's why

For Jane, the project offered a chance to celebrate the milestone while also supporting a cause close to her heart.

"I really, really enjoyed it," shared Jane.

"It's so nice to be able to put something back into life as opposed to just taking out of it, as a lot of people do."

Jane shared that her chosen charity, Prostate Cancer UK, is one close to her heart, after seeing the impact of the disease on her own family.

Jane's late father was diagnosed with prostate cancer, inspiring Jane to use her place in the calendar to help raise awareness and funds for the charity.

But just over a month ago, the cause became even more personal when Jane was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Jane shared that the experience had made her involvement in the calendar "even more poignant".

The calendar has therefore provided a positive way to mark Jane's 60th birthday while supporting a cause that has touched her family personally.

Jane's chosen charity: Prostate Cancer UK

Alongside raising money for charity, Jane also shared that the experience has highlighted the importance of women supporting and empowering one another.

Having raised her daughter on her own, Jane described herself as an independent woman and said she believes strongly in women lifting each other up.

"I've been a very independent woman. I just think it's very important that women empower women," she added.

Jane further expressed that the group of women involved in the calendar have all been a huge source of support for her, in what has been a difficult time.

"That group of ladies are just great. They are a force within themselves, it's amazing and inspiring," said Jane.

For Jane, the calendar has become about far more than a photoshoot. It has brought together a group of women determined to support one another, raise money for important causes, and embrace new experiences.

As she celebrates turning 60, Jane hopes the project will encourage other women to step outside their comfort zones while making a difference to causes close to their hearts.

For her, taking part has provided a memorable way to mark a milestone birthday and, in light of recent events, a reminder of the importance of community, friendship and giving back.

Jane is raising money for Prostate Cancer UK as part of the Ladies First Charity Calendar 2027, where she features in the month of January.