We grew a moustache to raise cash!

Many of the staff at Stagecoach’s Exeter depot have been looking more hirsute than usual.

Almost fifty drivers, engineers and managers gave up their razors for a month in response to the rallying call from drivers Martin and Karen Milton to ‘grow a mo’ for Movember.

In just a decade ‘Movember’ has grown from a few friends in Australia raising awareness of men’s health issues to a global phenomenon in which over 3 million men and women have participated, raising millions of pounds for men’s mental health, testicular and prostate cancer research.

All Stagecoach staff who pledged to ‘grow a mo’ made a £10 donation to the charity and, with further donations rolling in from friends and family - plus a cheque for £300 from Stagecoach South West - the final fundraising total is expected to be in excess of £1,000.

Martin Milton commented “When I first started talking about this at work I never dreamed we’d end up with so many joining in and raising so much money - it’s been absolutely fantastic and I’d like to thank all of my colleagues who’ve been prepared to ‘grow a mo’ for the cause.”

Managing Director Michael Watson added “I’m very impressed at how many staff have taken part in this year’s Movember and I’m delighted to be able to make a donation of £300 on behalf of the company. Who knows? Maybe next year I’ll join in!”

From a shortlist of three Martin and his fellow judges finally settled on driver Gav Riley as the winner. Martin explained “ We agreed early on it wouldn’t just be about who can grow the biggest or best moustache – but also someone who knows they’ll look ridiculous and is still goes for it anyway – and that’s why we picked Gav!”

On learning he was the winner, Gav said “I’ve grown quite attached to my ‘mo but it’s time to say goodbye – until next year that is!”

Gav was then treated to a traditional Turkish shave courtesy of Eyüp Sak, owner of Restyle Barber at 5 Iron Bridge, a short walk from Exeter’s High Street. All other entrants have been issued with disposable razors to help with mowing the ‘mo’ for another year.