THE first edition of a Portland calendar published by Island Volunteers forYou, (IVY), is now available, ready to send off to relatives and friends in time for Christmas.

This latest enterprise was launched a few months ago when members of the public were invited to submit pictures taken locally for possible inclusion in the calendar.

This resulted in 30 pictures being entered by both children and adults and from this, the 12 representing the months of the year were chosen.

Try Again Weymouth, a small boat photographed by Peter Van Allen, has captured the cover spot and is also used to illustrate January.

Most of the pictures veer away from the conventional images that show the beauties of the island and many show aspects of community life such as one taken at an IVY tea dance. Also included are a view over Underhill taken by a nine-year-old, a little girl walking along the beach, a lone angler on the shore, the sea in different moods and St George's Church. Every photographer is acknowledged and the different tasks for which volunteers are required are highlighted on each page. IVY co-ordinator Mandy Court said: "We would like people to start taking pictures now to enter the competition for our 2009 calendar.

"Each month for this first edition has been sponsored by local business people and all proceeds from sales will go to IVY."

The calendar costs £3.95 and stockists are the IVY office, Easton Street, RT Cards, Easton Square, Lobster Pot at Portland Bill, Heights Hotel and L&O's,Weston Road.

IVY's most recent fun and fund raiser was a race night held at the Jubilee Hall in Easton.

Mandy Court said: "Over 50 attended and £360 was raised for our funds and our thanks go to local businesses who sponsored the races, to David and Michael Laming who ran the tote and to those who supported the event."