CHRISTMAS is traditionally the time for giving, but now November is the time for growing, thanks to prostate cancer charity fundraiser Movember.
The idea began nine years ago when three friends, one of whom was battling prostate cancer, decided to grow their facial hair during the month of November for charity.
Hundreds of Croydon men have been sponsored to grow their moustaches, or "mos", and have happily contributed to the hundreds of thousands of pounds now being donated every year.
The team at Toyota, in Purley Way, have had a team grow-off. The eight-strong team have so far raised £143 for prostate cancer.
Mehmet Aray, team captain, said: "The father of Richard Croker, one of the team members, was diagnosed with leukaemia four months ago and is currently waiting for bone marrow operation at the Royal Marsden in Sutton.
"To show our support to both Richard and his father Peter we have decided to grow a mo, which has been a lot of fun."
Meanwhile, Saiid Talidi, 26, from South Croydon, has so far raised £160 for the cause and has vowed that if he gets to £250 he will dye his facial accessory as well. He said: "I wanted to raise money for prostate cancer and this seemed like a really easy way to do it.
"My girlfriend can't wait until I shave it off and neither can I, but it's definitely been fun.
"I look ridiculous, it's all whiskery."
Jon Lee, from Selsdon, has grown an impressive handlebar moustache for the charity and has so far raised £60. He said: "I've really enjoyed nurturing it to full strength but my wife hasn't been so impressed.
"My three little girls find it funny. I've told them to tell mum they like it and they want me to keep it for December too. It's almost working."
Danny Webster, from Selsdon, also raised £250, and had to put up with his football team referring to him as Freddie Mercury for the month.
To donate to the furry fundraisers, visit www.mobro.co/jonlee4 or www.uk.movember.com/team/830049
