Those of you who know me will understand what a labour of love my beard has been.

It is 18 months in the making and during that time has been singed by flames, puked on by my son Jacob and forcibly removed in chunks by JC.

As fond as I am of my facial fuzz, I have genuinely forgotten what my face looks like underneath, so I have decided to get rid of it - and, in doing so, raise a bit of money for a very good cause.

The Devon Partnership NHS Trust deals with mental health issues right here in North Devon.  I have had reason to use their services in the past, as have many friends - all of which is completely free.

However, they are scandalously under-funded so, with suicide being the biggest killer of men under the age of 45, I thought I would try to raise a few beans to help them keep providing this important service.

I've set a target of £200, but if I think I can get more I will up it as appropriate.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.