BOWEL Cancer UK is encouraging men to bring their families, friends, and colleagues together and get sponsored to grow their best beard throughout December.

All the money raised will help stop people dying of bowel cancer – the UK’s second biggest cancer killer.

Taking part in Decembeard is simple. All you need to do is clean shave on November 30 and let your facial fuzz grow throughout the month. If you area already bearded you can dye, ditch or decorate your beard and join the campaign.

Vicky Martin, community fundraising manager at Bowel Cancer UK, said: “Whether you grow a Van Dyke, a goatee, or a Garibaldi beard – we want you to gather your families, friends and colleagues to get sponsored to grow your best beard.

"All we ask is that you pledge to raise at least £100 per team member and all the money you raise will help stop people dying of bowel cancer by funding our vital services and lifesaving research.”