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Who grows a moustache nowadays? Err, me Who grows a moustache nowadays? Err, me
(1 day later)
Who sprouts hair only on their upper lip these days? Well, plenty of men this month, all growing moustaches to raise money for prostate cancer charities. Among them is Patrick Heery who will be charting the highs and socially awkward lows in these pages.Who sprouts hair only on their upper lip these days? Well, plenty of men this month, all growing moustaches to raise money for prostate cancer charities. Among them is Patrick Heery who will be charting the highs and socially awkward lows in these pages.

id="heading-1">MONDAY 22 NOVEMBER

id="heading-1">THURSDAY 25 NOVEMBER

There is now less than a week to go. Less than a week! I find myself day-dreaming of having a bald, smooth top lip at various times of the day. I cannot wait. Pictures of your taches from around the world have really cheered me up during my moustache month and your kind comments are also much appreciated. As for your less than kind comments - since this is for charity, those have been warmly received too.
It's no secret, if you've been keeping up with this diary, that the experience of growing a moustache hasn't been entirely enjoyable for me. But not for one moment did I consider a moustache could be a safety hazard... until I got talking to a colleague yesterday.
When she was younger, her father used to have a moustache - a big, old droopy one. Now, this colleague has a very severe peanut allergy. Her moustachioed dad, was partial to the odd pint at his local ever now and then and, while having a drink, if he felt a little peckish, he was partial to a packet of nuts. At the end of the evening he would return home and, like any loving father, would have a quick look at his sleeping daughter and give her a goodnight kiss.
However, the droopy moustache had trapped enough essence of peanut that the young girl would wake the next morning with a moustache-assisted, allergy-swelling, trout pout. What more evidence do you need about the dangers of the tache.
But let's not forget this whole month is about reminding us all about the dangers of prostate cancer. The Movember website says that the moustachied men are raising awareness by prompting private and public conversation around the often ignored issue of men's health. They are also raising a lot of money. In the UK alone last year, nearly £5 million was raised. I am happy with my own fundraising efforts but am still hoping for a late push to reach even greater amounts. Now that would make the month much more bearable.
Got any, er, moustrache-related safety hazard tales?

MONDAY 22 NOVEMBER

We are into the last full week of this moustache growing. Movember men across the globe must be cheering - including the fine-looking fellows below, who sent me photos of their own efforts.We are into the last full week of this moustache growing. Movember men across the globe must be cheering - including the fine-looking fellows below, who sent me photos of their own efforts.
After three weeks, I am feeling no happier with my moustachioed look and can't wait to be rid of it.After three weeks, I am feeling no happier with my moustachioed look and can't wait to be rid of it.
It has stopped itching at least but it still looks fairly pathetic and is not attracting too many compliments. Once more I can't help but feel sorry for those men whose normal look includes a hairy top lip. Everyone seems to think it makes you look like a sex offender or a Nazi. Not the greatest device for raising one's self-esteem.It has stopped itching at least but it still looks fairly pathetic and is not attracting too many compliments. Once more I can't help but feel sorry for those men whose normal look includes a hairy top lip. Everyone seems to think it makes you look like a sex offender or a Nazi. Not the greatest device for raising one's self-esteem.
I visited my father for the first time since growing the tache and asked him if he'd ever grown one. After saying I looked like a budding Hitler, he admitted that he had not, which got me thinking - where does a son learn how to look after their beard or moustache?I visited my father for the first time since growing the tache and asked him if he'd ever grown one. After saying I looked like a budding Hitler, he admitted that he had not, which got me thinking - where does a son learn how to look after their beard or moustache?
Someone at work told me that bearded men exfoliate, another said that to relieve the itchiness I should clean it with conditioner. Now this may all sound weird but I have been washing my bald head with shampoo for the last 25 years or so, even though it is pretty hairless. That feels more a case of old habits dying hard. I do draw the line at conditioner though.Someone at work told me that bearded men exfoliate, another said that to relieve the itchiness I should clean it with conditioner. Now this may all sound weird but I have been washing my bald head with shampoo for the last 25 years or so, even though it is pretty hairless. That feels more a case of old habits dying hard. I do draw the line at conditioner though.
So, I've looked up grooming tips online. And indeed, a site on beard-care does recommend shampoo and conditioner to keep my moustache soft and in check. It also says I should invest in a fine-toothed comb to keep it tangle free.So, I've looked up grooming tips online. And indeed, a site on beard-care does recommend shampoo and conditioner to keep my moustache soft and in check. It also says I should invest in a fine-toothed comb to keep it tangle free.
I don't think my moustache quite warrants a combing which is a real, real shame. When you haven't had anything of your own to comb for a quarter of a century, the one silver lining of moustache growing would be idly running a comb through my own hair while sitting on the settee of an evening. But I fear in the week left to me, my tache will not get the required bushiness to justify it.I don't think my moustache quite warrants a combing which is a real, real shame. When you haven't had anything of your own to comb for a quarter of a century, the one silver lining of moustache growing would be idly running a comb through my own hair while sitting on the settee of an evening. But I fear in the week left to me, my tache will not get the required bushiness to justify it.
A selection of your moustache-care tips for PatrickA selection of your moustache-care tips for Patrick
I have had a tache since 16. I am 60 now and my kids and grandkids say I am not allowed to shave it off. My tip is shave from the centre outwards to each side.I have had a tache since 16. I am 60 now and my kids and grandkids say I am not allowed to shave it off. My tip is shave from the centre outwards to each side.
Alan Carr, Wallsend, Tyne & WearAlan Carr, Wallsend, Tyne & Wear
Conditioner is definitely the way to go. My mo is entering its third week and (excuse the pun) growing on me. And I got into the NBL game for free, just by growing the mo (as well as other official rewards for fundraising). And the Taipans won - good times! Keep it going mo bros up there in the UK. Not long to go...Conditioner is definitely the way to go. My mo is entering its third week and (excuse the pun) growing on me. And I got into the NBL game for free, just by growing the mo (as well as other official rewards for fundraising). And the Taipans won - good times! Keep it going mo bros up there in the UK. Not long to go...
Philip Baker, Cairns, QLD, AustraliaPhilip Baker, Cairns, QLD, Australia
My 'tache is two weeks old, as I started late, and is coming on nicely, but then I have grown one, on and off, since I was 15. All I do with mine is trim it on occasion, and give it a shampoo when I remember. It is not the same as a beard, which does need a good shampoo, with an occasional visit made to the barber's just to get the shape redifined.My 'tache is two weeks old, as I started late, and is coming on nicely, but then I have grown one, on and off, since I was 15. All I do with mine is trim it on occasion, and give it a shampoo when I remember. It is not the same as a beard, which does need a good shampoo, with an occasional visit made to the barber's just to get the shape redifined.
Neal Roallson, Brentford, MiddlesexNeal Roallson, Brentford, Middlesex
My dad always had facial hair, be it a full beard, a 'stache, or a jaunty Van Dyke. He lost the hair on his head in his early 20s and tried to make up for it with wonderful facial hair. He always looked quite handsome with a beard until it turned grey and he started dying it with over the counter black hair colour. No-one had the heart to tell him how bad it looked. I must admit though, I like a man with facial hair and I think it's because of my dad. My dad always had facial hair, be it a full beard, a 'stache, or a jaunty Van Dyke. He lost the hair on his head in his early 20s and tried to make up for it with wonderful facial hair. He always looked quite handsome with a beard until it turned grey and he started dying it with over the counter black hair colour. No-one had the heart to tell him how bad it looked. I like a man with facial hair and I think it's because of my dad.
Cheryl Brown, Clacton on SeaCheryl Brown, Clacton on Sea
Don't forget that when you have a draught of beer, you have to suck your moustache dry. And yes, combing is necessary.Don't forget that when you have a draught of beer, you have to suck your moustache dry. And yes, combing is necessary.
Mr J, OxfordMr J, Oxford
It seems odd that humankind has adopted the idea that shaving is the norm. The damage inflicted upon male faces over the years must prove the truth is that not shaving is the better choice... regardless of whether the bearer can grow a lot or a little!It seems odd that humankind has adopted the idea that shaving is the norm. The damage inflicted upon male faces over the years must prove the truth is that not shaving is the better choice... regardless of whether the bearer can grow a lot or a little!
Jack Frost, via FacebookJack Frost, via Facebook
Growing a moustache for Movember means shaving properly for the time in years. I use clippers, but dislike being clean shaven. Seems such a waste of time. We are men!Growing a moustache for Movember means shaving properly for the time in years. I use clippers, but dislike being clean shaven. Seems such a waste of time. We are men!
Jon Wade, via FacebookJon Wade, via Facebook
Keep your tache short, pick out the bits of food regularly, and of course keep it clean. I wash my tache and beard at same time as washing face, occasionally wash beard with shampoo.Keep your tache short, pick out the bits of food regularly, and of course keep it clean. I wash my tache and beard at same time as washing face, occasionally wash beard with shampoo.
Steve Haines, HampshireSteve Haines, Hampshire
The best tip for making that 'tache looking good is to get some similar coloured eye liner and thickening up the colour only takes a light touch over the facial hair (NOT THE FACE ITSELF) and it stands out great.The best tip for making that 'tache looking good is to get some similar coloured eye liner and thickening up the colour only takes a light touch over the facial hair (NOT THE FACE ITSELF) and it stands out great.
James, GlosJames, Glos
Patrick, persevere! I think it looks lovely and it will get even better. And well done for standing up for a good cause.Patrick, persevere! I think it looks lovely and it will get even better. And well done for standing up for a good cause.
Elena, LondonElena, London
Patrick, your 'tache looks lovely, keep going.Patrick, your 'tache looks lovely, keep going.
Marina Gray, Dumbarton, ScotlandMarina Gray, Dumbarton, Scotland

id="heading-2">WEDNESDAY 17 NOVEMBER

id="heading-3">WEDNESDAY 17 NOVEMBER

I am halfway through this month of fundraising facial hair, which is fantastic. Two weeks today and I will be clean-shaven once again. But is this moustache that's refusing to grow on me, growing on me?I am halfway through this month of fundraising facial hair, which is fantastic. Two weeks today and I will be clean-shaven once again. But is this moustache that's refusing to grow on me, growing on me?
In short, no. As I have said since the start of the month, I am not really enjoying the challenge of growing a moustache. But from the outset everyone has asked about one particular aspect. "Is it itchy?" "Don't worry, the itchiness doesn't last."In short, no. As I have said since the start of the month, I am not really enjoying the challenge of growing a moustache. But from the outset everyone has asked about one particular aspect. "Is it itchy?" "Don't worry, the itchiness doesn't last."
But I thought it was one aspect of whisker-growing I was going to be spared - maybe my pathetic attempt was so feeble it couldn't even muster the required bristliness to make it itch.But I thought it was one aspect of whisker-growing I was going to be spared - maybe my pathetic attempt was so feeble it couldn't even muster the required bristliness to make it itch.
But no. Yesterday, it began to itch, although it was an itch that felt more like a burn, a burning sensation on my top lip that wouldn't stop. Is that normal? It's just one more reason to add to the list of things wrong with facial hair. At least it might signal a start of more industrial growth - well I can but hope.But no. Yesterday, it began to itch, although it was an itch that felt more like a burn, a burning sensation on my top lip that wouldn't stop. Is that normal? It's just one more reason to add to the list of things wrong with facial hair. At least it might signal a start of more industrial growth - well I can but hope.
Tuesday was also the day I got my first compliment. "I think it suits you," said one colleague. Now I never expected to hear that. But don't worry. Compliments are far outweighed by the insults. "Do us all a favour and go and wash it off," one Newsroom wag offered. Roll on December.Tuesday was also the day I got my first compliment. "I think it suits you," said one colleague. Now I never expected to hear that. But don't worry. Compliments are far outweighed by the insults. "Do us all a favour and go and wash it off," one Newsroom wag offered. Roll on December.
Below is a selection of your suggested lookalikes for PatrickBelow is a selection of your suggested lookalikes for Patrick
Sorry Patrick but you have an uncanny resemblance to the weasels from Wind In The Willows. That said, my tashe is failing miserably and I've learned there is a massive hole in my beard that doesn't fill in, right on the Lemmy line.Sorry Patrick but you have an uncanny resemblance to the weasels from Wind In The Willows. That said, my tashe is failing miserably and I've learned there is a massive hole in my beard that doesn't fill in, right on the Lemmy line.
Rob, BristolRob, Bristol
I've seen this fella on Time Team. Didn't know he'd gone bald.I've seen this fella on Time Team. Didn't know he'd gone bald.
Alan Winter, via FacebookAlan Winter, via Facebook
I do believe the gentleman rather resembles Baldric, of Blackadder infamy. With or without the 'tache.I do believe the gentleman rather resembles Baldric, of Blackadder infamy. With or without the 'tache.
Simon Cope, Burton On Trent, StaffsSimon Cope, Burton On Trent, Staffs
More like Blackpool manager Ian Holloway.More like Blackpool manager Ian Holloway.
Hooton Roberts, via TwitterHooton Roberts, via Twitter
He looks a bit like Andy Barnes, a Scrapheap Challenge regular, captain of The Barley Pickers. Proper job!He looks a bit like Andy Barnes, a Scrapheap Challenge regular, captain of The Barley Pickers. Proper job!
Luke, BromleyLuke, Bromley
My own effort makes me look like Kenneth Branagh in The Boat That Rocked. I look like a 1960s civil servant, too young to have fought in the war, too old to enjoy the sexual revolution, bristling with suppressed rage at his own lack of glory and sexual frustration, all expressed in a moustache. I can't wait to get rid of it.My own effort makes me look like Kenneth Branagh in The Boat That Rocked. I look like a 1960s civil servant, too young to have fought in the war, too old to enjoy the sexual revolution, bristling with suppressed rage at his own lack of glory and sexual frustration, all expressed in a moustache. I can't wait to get rid of it.
Oscar Franklin, London, UKOscar Franklin, London, UK
I hate to say it, but you are looking strangely similar to Heinrich Himmler. Put on some round-lensed glasses, switch the good-humoured and cheerful look for the serious and slightly squinty gaze as in the "Captain Mainwaring" photo, and the moustache will do the rest.I hate to say it, but you are looking strangely similar to Heinrich Himmler. Put on some round-lensed glasses, switch the good-humoured and cheerful look for the serious and slightly squinty gaze as in the "Captain Mainwaring" photo, and the moustache will do the rest.
John Smith, Victoria, British ColumbiaJohn Smith, Victoria, British Columbia
It looks like my old maiden aunt who had a shadow or small rodent perched just beneath the nostril area.It looks like my old maiden aunt who had a shadow or small rodent perched just beneath the nostril area.
David Black,David Black,
I have been married to a luxuriant moustache for more than 25 years. If you want to keep it, grow it long and only clip back when too much froth from the top of your beer drops to the floor. Neat and tidy m's are like kissing a toothbrush, go for the long and soft and reap the benefits.I have been married to a luxuriant moustache for more than 25 years. If you want to keep it, grow it long and only clip back when too much froth from the top of your beer drops to the floor. Neat and tidy m's are like kissing a toothbrush, go for the long and soft and reap the benefits.
Ann Ward, LancashireAnn Ward, Lancashire

id="heading-3">MONDAY 15 NOVEMBER

id="heading-4">MONDAY 15 NOVEMBER

Right, so we are two weeks in and I have to say I am not impressed with any aspect of moustache-growing so far.Right, so we are two weeks in and I have to say I am not impressed with any aspect of moustache-growing so far.
I wake every morning hoping that my top lip will be home to an impressive bristling tache, but no - it seems to be the same patchy, frankly Velcro-like line of hair. At least it means everyone can continue to make fun of my moustache-growing ability to their heart's content.I wake every morning hoping that my top lip will be home to an impressive bristling tache, but no - it seems to be the same patchy, frankly Velcro-like line of hair. At least it means everyone can continue to make fun of my moustache-growing ability to their heart's content.
As I've said before, it seems unfair that a man can be judged by others for his ability or lack of ability to grow facial hair. If a man's masculinity was judged rather on his power to grow hair on his back I would be up there with Arnold Schwarzernegger and Jean Claude Van Damme. Life is so unfair for those bald men, struggling to grow moustaches but with an abundance of hair sprouting in places where they'd rather not have it.As I've said before, it seems unfair that a man can be judged by others for his ability or lack of ability to grow facial hair. If a man's masculinity was judged rather on his power to grow hair on his back I would be up there with Arnold Schwarzernegger and Jean Claude Van Damme. Life is so unfair for those bald men, struggling to grow moustaches but with an abundance of hair sprouting in places where they'd rather not have it.
As I've mentioned before, my wife hates my putative moustache - tells me off if I try to kiss her. That's fair enough. But her reaction, when clapping eyes on the picture sent in by Lawrence Sinton [posted further down in this story] was rather less hostile. "Ooh, could you send me that picture," she asked.As I've mentioned before, my wife hates my putative moustache - tells me off if I try to kiss her. That's fair enough. But her reaction, when clapping eyes on the picture sent in by Lawrence Sinton [posted further down in this story] was rather less hostile. "Ooh, could you send me that picture," she asked.
A colleague suggested it was because Lawrence had a, I believe the term is soul patch - the little piece of beard under the bottom lip - that he managed to carry the look off. A dig around on Wikipedia reveals this was a look sported by jazz musicians in the 50s and 60s... which probably tells you all you need to know about why the look is cool.A colleague suggested it was because Lawrence had a, I believe the term is soul patch - the little piece of beard under the bottom lip - that he managed to carry the look off. A dig around on Wikipedia reveals this was a look sported by jazz musicians in the 50s and 60s... which probably tells you all you need to know about why the look is cool.
So, I'll give it a go. But hang on, I can't help noticing this weekend's most prominent proponent of the tache and soul patch. The X F actor's Wagner. To be fair he carries it off well but if he's the epitome of cool, I want no part of it.So, I'll give it a go. But hang on, I can't help noticing this weekend's most prominent proponent of the tache and soul patch. The X F actor's Wagner. To be fair he carries it off well but if he's the epitome of cool, I want no part of it.
Below is a selection of your comments on this updateBelow is a selection of your comments on this update
Patrick, Lawrence Sinton is cheating. It's only meant to be upper lip.Patrick, Lawrence Sinton is cheating. It's only meant to be upper lip.
Mark Coughlan, via TwitterMark Coughlan, via Twitter
My husband is on day 15 of Movember as well - he, however, is having no issues in filling in his handlebar moustache. Tell your wife to count her blessings that she's dealing with a strip of Velcro rather than a member of the Village People...My husband is on day 15 of Movember as well - he, however, is having no issues in filling in his handlebar moustache. Tell your wife to count her blessings that she's dealing with a strip of Velcro rather than a member of the Village People...
Helen, Calgary, ABHelen, Calgary, AB
Got to say that's a pretty pathetic excuse for a moustache. I'd grow more than that in 24 hours!Got to say that's a pretty pathetic excuse for a moustache. I'd grow more than that in 24 hours!
David, Ilkeston, EnglandDavid, Ilkeston, England
I am also on day 15, it is going well now and I can almost forget I have one. A tip I received when mine was not showing was to colour it in with mascara. Perhaps you can artificially give yourself a prominent mo... Good luck and keep up the good work. Loving this update.I am also on day 15, it is going well now and I can almost forget I have one. A tip I received when mine was not showing was to colour it in with mascara. Perhaps you can artificially give yourself a prominent mo... Good luck and keep up the good work. Loving this update.
Terry Lane, LondonTerry Lane, London

id="heading-4">THURSDAY 11 NOVEMBER

id="heading-5">THURSDAY 11 NOVEMBER

Now, did I say I was happy with my masculinity? Well I am, but I wish this thing would bush up a bit if for no other reason than to stop the gags like: "I'll sponsor you when it begins to show."Now, did I say I was happy with my masculinity? Well I am, but I wish this thing would bush up a bit if for no other reason than to stop the gags like: "I'll sponsor you when it begins to show."
So I thought I'd seek consolation from the comments on the site. So thanks James from South Wales for this: "Well at least at the end of the month you won't need to shave... you can just get a cat to lick it off."So I thought I'd seek consolation from the comments on the site. So thanks James from South Wales for this: "Well at least at the end of the month you won't need to shave... you can just get a cat to lick it off."
And this from Jonathan Friend: "I've seen better moustaches on 13-year-olds."And this from Jonathan Friend: "I've seen better moustaches on 13-year-olds."
Friend by name if not by nature, it seems. Thanks, though, to Lawrence Sinton (see picture, right) who has offered moral support by sending a picture of his own Mo-vember effort. "I am getting comparisons to the bad Michael Knight or Tom Selleck," he says. Hmmm, doesn't sound like he's getting too many gags about cats licking it off.Friend by name if not by nature, it seems. Thanks, though, to Lawrence Sinton (see picture, right) who has offered moral support by sending a picture of his own Mo-vember effort. "I am getting comparisons to the bad Michael Knight or Tom Selleck," he says. Hmmm, doesn't sound like he's getting too many gags about cats licking it off.
When I catch sight of myself in a mirror I wonder who my newly-moustachioed self reminds me of - a bit of Blakey from On The Buses or Captain Mainwaring from Dad's Army maybe. The moustache seems to get a bit of bad press - adorning the lips of figures of fun. But there have been some taches of note that deserve a mention.When I catch sight of myself in a mirror I wonder who my newly-moustachioed self reminds me of - a bit of Blakey from On The Buses or Captain Mainwaring from Dad's Army maybe. The moustache seems to get a bit of bad press - adorning the lips of figures of fun. But there have been some taches of note that deserve a mention.
Selleck in Magnum PI is probably every man's idea of a moustache (see picture under Tuesday's entry). He would not have been the same, smooth, suave figure without his big, impressive moustache. It is manly, cool and probably inspired many a top lip to follow suit.Selleck in Magnum PI is probably every man's idea of a moustache (see picture under Tuesday's entry). He would not have been the same, smooth, suave figure without his big, impressive moustache. It is manly, cool and probably inspired many a top lip to follow suit.
The moustache also seems to be the facial appendage of choice to some of the most infamous names in history - Hitler sported a paint pot moustache which helped make him look dangerous and frankly unhinged. What Charlie Chaplin once carried with humour, Hitler deported with malevolence. Stalin's effort was a much fuller, warmer tache - but once again presumably does not inspire too many copycats.The moustache also seems to be the facial appendage of choice to some of the most infamous names in history - Hitler sported a paint pot moustache which helped make him look dangerous and frankly unhinged. What Charlie Chaplin once carried with humour, Hitler deported with malevolence. Stalin's effort was a much fuller, warmer tache - but once again presumably does not inspire too many copycats.
The world of sport was a happy home for many moustaches once upon a time. Australian cricketers loved them. Remember Merv Hughes - now that was a moustache. And David Boon - I think those top lips made me hate the Aussie cricket team even more than the regular drubbings they dished out. Swimmers - Mark Spitz and David Wilkie; world-class athletes - Daley Thompson - these men were in their time the epitome of masculinity as well as success.The world of sport was a happy home for many moustaches once upon a time. Australian cricketers loved them. Remember Merv Hughes - now that was a moustache. And David Boon - I think those top lips made me hate the Aussie cricket team even more than the regular drubbings they dished out. Swimmers - Mark Spitz and David Wilkie; world-class athletes - Daley Thompson - these men were in their time the epitome of masculinity as well as success.
In the modern sporting world it seems moustaches have been replaced by tattoos as the accessory of choice.In the modern sporting world it seems moustaches have been replaced by tattoos as the accessory of choice.
But the tache doesn't have to be the home of only the despotic world leaders or stars of the world of sport. My own personal favourites are worn by Barry and Paul Chuckle - the Chuckle Brothers. Now those are moustaches worn with style. If I end up with a Chuckle at the end of November, I'll be laughing.But the tache doesn't have to be the home of only the despotic world leaders or stars of the world of sport. My own personal favourites are worn by Barry and Paul Chuckle - the Chuckle Brothers. Now those are moustaches worn with style. If I end up with a Chuckle at the end of November, I'll be laughing.
Below is a selection of your comments on this updateBelow is a selection of your comments on this update
Rejoice - 11 days in and had to remove food from mine last night. Some lessons in moustachioed eating definitely required.Rejoice - 11 days in and had to remove food from mine last night. Some lessons in moustachioed eating definitely required.
Richard Nott, Aberdeen, ScotlandRichard Nott, Aberdeen, Scotland
I only allow my chums to abuse me if, and only if, they cough up sponsorship. Keeps the Facebook insults down and the money up.I only allow my chums to abuse me if, and only if, they cough up sponsorship. Keeps the Facebook insults down and the money up.
Neil Stevens, Tadley, HampshireNeil Stevens, Tadley, Hampshire
We once saw (unexpectedly, mind you) the World Beard & Moustache Championships - you have a way to go!We once saw (unexpectedly, mind you) the World Beard & Moustache Championships - you have a way to go!
MagellanPR , via TwitterMagellanPR , via Twitter
Lots of great figures in music wear a moustache. Brandon Flowers from The Killers, David Crosby from The Byrds and CSN, all of the Beatles during the years between Sgt Peppers and Let it Be, Ian Anderson from Jethro Tull just to name a few. Lando Calrissian in Star Wars, the most important man with a tash ever, in any time or space.Lots of great figures in music wear a moustache. Brandon Flowers from The Killers, David Crosby from The Byrds and CSN, all of the Beatles during the years between Sgt Peppers and Let it Be, Ian Anderson from Jethro Tull just to name a few. Lando Calrissian in Star Wars, the most important man with a tash ever, in any time or space.
Chris, BristolChris, Bristol
Back in our college days, many of the young men used a girlfriend's mascara to make their tache look fuller, or to give it the right colour. It's worth a try.Back in our college days, many of the young men used a girlfriend's mascara to make their tache look fuller, or to give it the right colour. It's worth a try.
Leila,Leila,
It's great to have a choice. After extensive head/neck surgery, I was unable to shave for months and ended up with what friends told me was a decent beard. Then, I had to have (brutal) head/neck radiotherapy, which totally destroyed the majority of the newly acquired beard. Such is life...It's great to have a choice. After extensive head/neck surgery, I was unable to shave for months and ended up with what friends told me was a decent beard. Then, I had to have (brutal) head/neck radiotherapy, which totally destroyed the majority of the newly acquired beard. Such is life...
Mark Lord , via BBC News Magazine on FacebookMark Lord , via BBC News Magazine on Facebook
Keep going Patrick! If your efforts encourage one man to get a PSA test done for an early diagnosis, then it will be all worthwhile.Keep going Patrick! If your efforts encourage one man to get a PSA test done for an early diagnosis, then it will be all worthwhile.
Joy, Bedford, EnglandJoy, Bedford, England
I'm having similar comments - one was "it's like a rugby team, 15 a side". I'm persevering though, no matter how silly I look.I'm having similar comments - one was "it's like a rugby team, 15 a side". I'm persevering though, no matter how silly I look.
Darren Rye, Birmingham, UKDarren Rye, Birmingham, UK
May women join?May women join?
Sara, LondonSara, London
I generally don't like moustaches, but my dad wouldn't be the same without his. He has always had a moustache, except for once when I was a small child - he accidentally shaved off half his moustache. For the two weeks it took to re-grow, my four-year-old self cried and screamed every time I was left in a room with him. I had no idea who the clean-shaven man in my house was.I generally don't like moustaches, but my dad wouldn't be the same without his. He has always had a moustache, except for once when I was a small child - he accidentally shaved off half his moustache. For the two weeks it took to re-grow, my four-year-old self cried and screamed every time I was left in a room with him. I had no idea who the clean-shaven man in my house was.
Stefi, SussexStefi, Sussex

id="heading-5">WEDNESDAY 10 NOVEMBER

id="heading-6">WEDNESDAY 10 NOVEMBER

Yesterday was a great day in my moustache-growing journey. A colleague looked at me and then asked whether I was growing my moustache for Movember. I could have kissed him. Yes, yes, yes I was and he was the first person to realise it. That felt good. He then admitted his first thought had been that my wife had kicked me out. Wow - anyone growing a moustache just for pleasure must have to put up with a lot of questioning as to why.Yesterday was a great day in my moustache-growing journey. A colleague looked at me and then asked whether I was growing my moustache for Movember. I could have kissed him. Yes, yes, yes I was and he was the first person to realise it. That felt good. He then admitted his first thought had been that my wife had kicked me out. Wow - anyone growing a moustache just for pleasure must have to put up with a lot of questioning as to why.
The other thing I've noticed is the number of men who have a look at my nine-day growth and say: "Is that it?" or "In a couple of weeks' time there might be something to see." (Jonathan Fried, your comment from yesterday - see below - is just one of many of this ilk.) Now, I've never claimed to be some sort of Dave Lee Travis and I'm not sure I'll have the bushiest tache to show off at the end of the month. But should that cause me to question my masculinity? I've fathered two children and lost the hair on my head so I don't think I need anymore reaffirmation of my testosterone.The other thing I've noticed is the number of men who have a look at my nine-day growth and say: "Is that it?" or "In a couple of weeks' time there might be something to see." (Jonathan Fried, your comment from yesterday - see below - is just one of many of this ilk.) Now, I've never claimed to be some sort of Dave Lee Travis and I'm not sure I'll have the bushiest tache to show off at the end of the month. But should that cause me to question my masculinity? I've fathered two children and lost the hair on my head so I don't think I need anymore reaffirmation of my testosterone.
As I've said, I am finding this moustache growing very difficult, but it prompted me to look up a bit of info on the most common cancer in men in the UK. Some 36,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year and more than 10,000 die from the condition.As I've said, I am finding this moustache growing very difficult, but it prompted me to look up a bit of info on the most common cancer in men in the UK. Some 36,000 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year and more than 10,000 die from the condition.
Right then, let me concentrate on growing this moustache.Right then, let me concentrate on growing this moustache.
Below is a selection of your comments on this updateBelow is a selection of your comments on this update
Keep at it! A number of us from work are doing it too. It's amazing how self-conscious it makes you feel.Keep at it! A number of us from work are doing it too. It's amazing how self-conscious it makes you feel.
Charles Smith, Crawley, W SussexCharles Smith, Crawley, W Sussex
Well at least at the end of the month you won't need to shave... you can just get a cat to lick it off.Well at least at the end of the month you won't need to shave... you can just get a cat to lick it off.
James, South WalesJames, South Wales
I am taking part in Mo-vember for the first time and have just started a new job. I am the only man in the office and 10 days in some of the women are still beating me for growth on the top lip. My wife and I can not wait for 1 December and if it was not for my friends who I meet with once a week also taking part and sharing mo-stories, it would be gone.I am taking part in Mo-vember for the first time and have just started a new job. I am the only man in the office and 10 days in some of the women are still beating me for growth on the top lip. My wife and I can not wait for 1 December and if it was not for my friends who I meet with once a week also taking part and sharing mo-stories, it would be gone.
David Scott, GlasgowDavid Scott, Glasgow
It's 35 years since I last had a moustache but a conversation with some friends about Movember convinced me to try. My father died from prostate cancer, and I found out this weekend that my father-in-law is having a biopsy this week. The big drawback is that my colleagues at work are vying to find different names for me e.g. Pablo, Pedro, Speedy etc. As long as they stump up the cash at the end of the month, they can call me anything.It's 35 years since I last had a moustache but a conversation with some friends about Movember convinced me to try. My father died from prostate cancer, and I found out this weekend that my father-in-law is having a biopsy this week. The big drawback is that my colleagues at work are vying to find different names for me e.g. Pablo, Pedro, Speedy etc. As long as they stump up the cash at the end of the month, they can call me anything.
Chris Alexander, ChesterChris Alexander, Chester

id="heading-6">TUESDAY 9 NOVEMBER

id="heading-7">TUESDAY 9 NOVEMBER

I hate facial hair. I've never understood why anyone would grow a beard or moustache - I have never met a man who doesn't look better once clean shaven. When someone shaves off a beard they always look years younger, more human, just better.I hate facial hair. I've never understood why anyone would grow a beard or moustache - I have never met a man who doesn't look better once clean shaven. When someone shaves off a beard they always look years younger, more human, just better.
I don't think I am beardist - well maybe a bit - but I've just never seen the point. I've certainly never tried to grow a beard or moustache myself. I'm not one of those men who has to shave every day and I've often thought I would struggle to grow anything resembling a decent beard. But why would I want to? I've been as bald as a coot for 15 years so if I could grow more hair I would want it on my head not my face.I don't think I am beardist - well maybe a bit - but I've just never seen the point. I've certainly never tried to grow a beard or moustache myself. I'm not one of those men who has to shave every day and I've often thought I would struggle to grow anything resembling a decent beard. But why would I want to? I've been as bald as a coot for 15 years so if I could grow more hair I would want it on my head not my face.
But then along comes Movember - for the uninitiated, it's a worldwide fund-raising campaign for prostate cancer charities, in which men grow moustaches in return for sponsorship. Even then, it's the sort of thing I could usually resist with ease but, when my son's teachers all said they were taking part, he really wanted me to do the same and, in a moment of weakness, I wilted.But then along comes Movember - for the uninitiated, it's a worldwide fund-raising campaign for prostate cancer charities, in which men grow moustaches in return for sponsorship. Even then, it's the sort of thing I could usually resist with ease but, when my son's teachers all said they were taking part, he really wanted me to do the same and, in a moment of weakness, I wilted.
We are now eight days in and it has got to the stage where it is clear something is going on. I no longer just look unshaven, there is a definite shape to things on my top lip. It leads to my first dilemma. I want to shout out to everyone I meet: "I know it looks awful, I'm not the sort of person who would grow one of these for fun - it's for charity."We are now eight days in and it has got to the stage where it is clear something is going on. I no longer just look unshaven, there is a definite shape to things on my top lip. It leads to my first dilemma. I want to shout out to everyone I meet: "I know it looks awful, I'm not the sort of person who would grow one of these for fun - it's for charity."
The worst thing is that at the moment, people aren't saying anything. They must see something is going on but they don't say: "Oh, are you growing a moustache?" Then at least I could say why. But at the moment everyone is being very polite and no-one is saying anything. And it drives me mad.The worst thing is that at the moment, people aren't saying anything. They must see something is going on but they don't say: "Oh, are you growing a moustache?" Then at least I could say why. But at the moment everyone is being very polite and no-one is saying anything. And it drives me mad.
Thing is, when I started out I thought there would be moustaches all over the place, a brotherhood of fundraisers, all in it together, seeing who is making the most progress or looks silliest. Supportive glances across a meeting room, a common understanding. But no. I look round the BBC newsroom and mine is the only top lip with bristles on it.Thing is, when I started out I thought there would be moustaches all over the place, a brotherhood of fundraisers, all in it together, seeing who is making the most progress or looks silliest. Supportive glances across a meeting room, a common understanding. But no. I look round the BBC newsroom and mine is the only top lip with bristles on it.
I have to say, I want to shave it off. I want to shave it off so much. The razor is calling to me but there are more than three weeks to go. But I already can't stand it. It's just not me - I've been told I look like a school caretaker, a football hooligan and a porn star.I have to say, I want to shave it off. I want to shave it off so much. The razor is calling to me but there are more than three weeks to go. But I already can't stand it. It's just not me - I've been told I look like a school caretaker, a football hooligan and a porn star.
My wife hates it and I hate it. I am going to have to raise a lot of money to make this worthwhile. I initially thought £200 would be good but I would happily shave it off and stump up that sum myself. So maybe I've got to aim higher.My wife hates it and I hate it. I am going to have to raise a lot of money to make this worthwhile. I initially thought £200 would be good but I would happily shave it off and stump up that sum myself. So maybe I've got to aim higher.
The only thing keeping me going - apart from the fact that it is for a cancer charity and we all have had lives touched by cancer and know what a ruthless killer it can be - is that my kids love it. They really, really love it.The only thing keeping me going - apart from the fact that it is for a cancer charity and we all have had lives touched by cancer and know what a ruthless killer it can be - is that my kids love it. They really, really love it.
So for now I'll keep going, trying to raise some cash, but I can't promise it'll make it to the end of November.So for now I'll keep going, trying to raise some cash, but I can't promise it'll make it to the end of November.
Below is a selection of your comments on this updateBelow is a selection of your comments on this update
I have been doing Movember for two years now and it does get easier as the month progresses. As someone who has been through a male-related cancer scare myself, I feel that it is really important to get the word out - especially for men-related health issue. Just remember that there are lots of styles to choose from and that you are not alone!I have been doing Movember for two years now and it does get easier as the month progresses. As someone who has been through a male-related cancer scare myself, I feel that it is really important to get the word out - especially for men-related health issue. Just remember that there are lots of styles to choose from and that you are not alone!
Ayad, Gatineau, CanadaAyad, Gatineau, Canada
What to do if you already have a moustache? I've had my wild moustache for nearly 40 years and have only shaved it off two or three times and re-growth it quickly each time - my face just looks bland and incomplete. Keep going - it's for good cause.What to do if you already have a moustache? I've had my wild moustache for nearly 40 years and have only shaved it off two or three times and re-growth it quickly each time - my face just looks bland and incomplete. Keep going - it's for good cause.
Smilesping, GodalmingSmilesping, Godalming
I am a proud moustache-wearer, have been ever since I could produce something like one. I have often wondered at the British prejudice towards moustaches. Either one is regarded as a freak, or (in the case of the homophobes) one is automatically classed as a homosexual man, which, so sorry, is not something determined by a moustache.I am a proud moustache-wearer, have been ever since I could produce something like one. I have often wondered at the British prejudice towards moustaches. Either one is regarded as a freak, or (in the case of the homophobes) one is automatically classed as a homosexual man, which, so sorry, is not something determined by a moustache.
D. Fear, Heidelberg, GermanyD. Fear, Heidelberg, Germany
I've seen better moustaches on 13-year-olds.I've seen better moustaches on 13-year-olds.
Jonathan Fried, Granada, SpainJonathan Fried, Granada, Spain