Grow a beard this December to help stop people dying of bowel cancer

We're encouraging men to bring their families, friends, and colleagues together and get sponsored to grow their best beard throughout December. All the money raised will help stop people dying of bowel cancer – the UK's second biggest cancer killer.

Taking part in Decembeard is really simple. All you need to do is clean shave on Wednesday 30 November 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 fourth most common cancer in the UK, which means that in the time it takes to grow a beard in December around 3,500 people will be diagnosed with the disease during the month. It's also the nation's second biggest cancer killer but it doesn't have to be as it's treatable and curable, especially if diagnosed early.

Vicky Martin, Community Fundraising Manager at Bowel Cancer UK, said: "Whether you grow a goatee or a full beard – we want you to gather your families, friends and colleagues to get sponsored to grow your best beard. All we ask is that you pledge to raise at least £100 per team member and all the money you raise will help stop people dying of bowel cancer by funding our vital services and lifesaving research."

• Sign up to Decembeard today
• Can't grow a beard? Discover other ways you can support our work