A BUILDER is downing tools to bare all in the name of a Dorset charity.

Cheeky chappie Ian Powell has vowed to strip off and perform household chores in the nude so he can raise money for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

The 34-year-old plans to visit houses in West Dorset, where he will peel off to undertake domestic duties - with nothing but a dicky bow and feather duster covering his modesty.

Mr Powell, who is joined in the venture by his factory worker friend David James, 32, said of the madcap scheme: "Like all mad ideas, this started off in the pub one Saturday night.

"After a few pints I said 'yes, all right', and one thing led to another.

"I was inspired by some friends who are doing the same thing in North Dorset and thought it would be a right laugh when it was suggested.

"My girlfriend doesn't mind at all - in fact, she is encouraging it."

Mr Powell said: "Obviously, it is all for a bit of fun and for a good cause at the same time.

"Although I am not the best housekeeper in the world, I can do the full Monty at the same time as vacuuming, a bit of washing up, the polishing or any other little job that needs to be done."

But Mr Powell added hastily: "The only service I offer is housework - and it's all in the spirit of fun."

Mr Powell said: "If people in the Weymouth, Dorchester and Bridport areas want to give me a ring and explain what needs to be done, we can arrange a time and place.

"The minimum donation will be £1, but I hope people will give generously because it's all in aid of a good cause.

"I would also be happy to turn up as part of a birthday surprise, I think it would be quite a laugh."

Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance director, Nicola Howkins, said: "This is the most unusual method of fundraising I have heard of in 15 years of charity work.

"Let's hope he is successful."

To contact Mr Powell, ring 07870 862429.