A CHARD fundraiser is hoping he has a goatee fit for a trophy.

Andy Teague, of Furnham Road, who leads fundraising organisation The Little Purple Kitty, is entering the first British Beard and Moustache Championships in Brighton next Saturday (September 15).

Andy, who works for Numatic International and became interested in beard competitions after watching Whisker Wars on ITV4, is entering the Best Natural Goatee class.

After watching the show Andy joined the British Beard Club and found out about the competition, held in aid of the Martlets Hospice in Hove and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Andy said: “I’m not sure I have the best goatee in Britain but it would be nice to see if I have a goatee fit for a trophy.

"I have always had facial hair of some description and often get complimented by friends, and more recently by complete strangers, on the quality of my beard.”

Twelve classes at this year’s event include a women’s and children’s make-your-own competition.

Holyrood Street hairdressers Razooks have been helping Andy keep his goatee in shape for the competition.

Andy added: “Michelle from Razooks is the only person I trust to look after my beard – when you put as much time and effort into growing a beard as I have, you want to know that when it is being trimmed and styled it is in safe hands!

"I’m always made very welcome in Razooks and going in to have my beard looked after is always good fun.”

FOLLOW the link to find out more about The British Beard and Moustache Championships .