For almost four decades, Ian Bell’s moustache has been his trademark feature.
The 58-year-old started growing his facial fuzz when he was just 21 – and 37 years later it was still going strong.
But earlier this month, the Aberdeen businessman decided it was time for a change, and announced to his friends, family and colleagues that he would be shaving off his “tache” for charity.
His drastic move was to be in aid of the Movember Foundation, a charity that wants to change the face of men’s health by improving the lives of people affected by prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health problems.
The charity usually encourages people to grow out their facial hair throughout November, but Mr Bell had to do the complete opposite and shave off his defining feature.
Thanks to donations from those who were concerned for his cold upper lip, he has now reached number seven (and counting) in the charity’s UK poll for fundraising.
Mr Bell, who is founding director of Aberdeen-based engineering consultancy Optimus, said he was “gob-smacked” by the response from his colleagues and industry comrades after revealing he would shave off his moustache if they helped him raise £1,000.
Less than 24 hours later, his supporters had already broken his target, and he was ranked number 25 in the UK for donations as people clamoured to see him bare-faced.
Mr Bell’s moustache was finally stripped off on Friday at a pie, pint and shave event. So far, he has raised almost £3,500.
“I’ve been so overwhelmed by everybody’s generosity and would like to thank them heartily,” he said.
“I’m sad to say goodbye to my moustache, but I’m told I’ll look younger without it.”
The Movember idea came to life in Melbourne, Australia, in 2003 while two friends discussed fashion and recurring trends.
They questioned where the moustache had gone and joked about bringing it back.
To date, four million have now been grown worldwide, raising £346million for more than 800 men’s health projects.
Jon Sim, head of communities at the Movember Foundation, said he was delighted Mr Bell had got involved and shaved off the feature that had adorned his face for 37 years.
“Men take action by changing their appearance by growing a moustache for the 30 days of Movember to spark conversation and raise funds,” he said
“That’s not to say that those who already proudly support a tache can’t get involved – as Ian’s brilliant drive shows.”