A Movember to remember

Thousands of top lips in the UK breathed a sigh of relief after the 30-day trial came to an end almost a week ago.

But the introduction of Movember, and its increasing popularity, is working to encourage people to talk about the issue of men’s health for good.

A group of 15 friends from Whitwell have raised £850 after becoming walking, talking adverts for the cause for more than four weeks.

Tom Haslam, 24, from Hillside, said him and his mates decided to give it a go after seeing it on TV.

“We saw it and thought it would be a good idea to raise some money for a worthy cause,” he said.

“There were 15 of us that did it and we managed to raise £850.”

“Friends and colleagues donated genourously and we’re so thankful - they kept us going.”

The group threw a party at the end of the month to celebrate and they are pictured raising a glass to their efforts. But Tom said he couldn’t wait to shave it off on Thursday 1st December.

He added: “I shaved it off straight away, I couldn’t wait to get it off. We kept getting funny looks, but it was all good natured, and I’d do it again.”

“Mark Bowers grew the best ‘tache, it was the fullest I have ever seen!”

Hundreds of others took part in growing their ‘tache for cash, including Worksop Guardian sports editor Graham Smyth.

He managed to raise £325 with £80 coming from colleagues. Also pictured is Nigel Short and his colleague Bob at VOOT.

Men from Solway Foods also took part in Movember with Andy Price, Darren Pownall, Antonio Numez, Chris Brumby and Matt Jackson sacrificing their top lips. Sonya Clark from public health at NHS Bassetlaw said: “A fantastic well done to all those Mo Bros and Mo Sistas sprouting facial hair for a great cause and raising money and awareness.”

“We all want our fathers, brothers, sons and husbands to live longer, healthier happier lives and I hope that raising awareness help us to do this.”