HUNDREDS of men in Devon and across the UK will be growing beards this December to raise money for Bowel Cancer UK — and it’s not too late to sign up and show your support for the campaign.

Taking part in Decembeard is really simple. All you need to do is clean shave on November 30 and let your facial fuzz grow throughout the month. Already bearded? No problem. Dye, ditch or decorate your beard and join the campaign.

Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in men in the UK and the nation’s second biggest cancer killer. However, it shouldn’t be as it’s treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.

Sports broadcaster Jim Rosenthal, celebrity chef Brian Turner and Olympian Carl Hester are backing the campaign.

Olympic gold medallist for dressage Carl Hester has pledged his support for Decembeard. He said: ‘I’m thrilled to be supporting Decembeard, which is especially personal to me. I’ve had polyps removed from my bowel and now have annual check-ups, but the realisation that it could have developed in to bowel cancer really hit me. This disease affects one in 14 men in the UK — it’s a very important cause.’

Sports broadcaster Jim Rosenthal said: ‘Dads, brothers, sons, nephews, grandads, uncles — get growing and raise as much as you can. It’s easy to do and a great chance to keep your face warm during the winter months.’

For more information, visit www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk/decembeard