Richard is Movember winner – by a whisker

The fundraiser sees men agree to grow a moustache for November to raise cash for research into prostate and testicular cancer.

But as the month drew to a close, it saw the end of the threadbare ticklers perched atop the upper lips and our faces were once again fuzz-free.

We visited Mark Betts Hairdressing on Commercial Road, Batley on Tuesday to crown the winner.

Hairdresser Josh Betts judged Richard Beecham to have the best face furniture and he was treated to a champion’s winning wet shave.

Richard said: “I was shocked and felt strangely honoured and it’s probably the most masculine prize I’ve ever won.

“With any luck this will be the start of many more manly activities for me.

“The shave itself was surprisingly pleasant, although the hot towel was unexpected - Josh was very thorough and clearly knows his trade.”

The Reporter Series raised £171 with Robert Cooke, Joe Cooper, Jake Oakley and me also taking part.

Joe said: “I’m happy with the growth but unfortunately not the colour, as I suffer from the dreaded ginger ‘tache syndrome.

“It’s been good fun and whenever I’ve seen mustachioed men around, I’ve felt as though I’m part of a not-so-secret brotherhood.”

Jake added: “Growing the lip tickler has had its ups and downs. It becomes a talking point with people you don’t see very often, although they get more pleasure from those moments.

“All in all though it’s been good. And I think the rest of us will have to bathe our top lips in Miracle Grow if we want to compete with Richard next year.”