Twelve of New Zealand's most prominent female television personalities, entertainers, actors, musicians and politicians are backing calls for cruelty free living. The stellar cast each appear embracing an animal in the 2007 Choose Cruelty Free calendar photographed by internationally acclaimed photographer Rachael Hale.

The glamorous fundraising initiative has been created by New Zealand's second largest animal advocacy organisation SAFE. SAFE has combined forces for this initiative with the international cruelty free company Lush, who will help promote calendar sales through their nationwide stores.

SAFE promotions manager Amanda Sorrenson said today: "The support from prominent personalities by agreeing to appear in the calendar has been tremendous. The diversity of talent, professions, characters and animals is beautifully mingled thanks to the brilliant photographer Rachael Hale."

"We are extremely grateful to have one of New Zealand's finest photographers involved. Rachael Hale is famed for her ability to work with animals and people and get the best results. She has captured both our human and non-human stars beautifully."

All proceeds from the calendar will go towards SAFE's humane education community work during 2007 that will advocate against the mistreatment and abuse of animals.

The calendar will go on sale nationwide from 22 November in all Lush stores and will be available online at www.safe.org.nz for $14.90.

The calendar stars are: Charlotte Dawson (TV presenter) Camilla (TV presenter) Emily Barclay (actress) Aja Rock (TV personality) Eva the Bulgarian (TV personality) Carly Binding (musician) Sue Kedgley (politician) Nicky Watson (personality) Victoria Girling Butcher (musician) Joe Cotton (musician and TV presenter) Nicola Kawana (actress) Jools Topp ­ Topp Twins (entertainer)

ENDS

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