OFFICERS at Ryedale District Council ditched their razors for a month to take part in Movember.

The team of nine grew moustaches to raise funds and awareness as part of a national campaign.

During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces in the UK and around the world.

The aim is to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

Regeneration manager Howard Wallis said this was the first time they had taken part in the fundraiser.

He said: “I was keen to get involved and managed to get my colleagues on board as well as the husband of one of our officers.”

Howard said they hoped to raise about £1,000.

“It is a bit of fun but there is also a serious message behind Movember in that men are not very good at taking notice of health issues,” he said.

Anyone who would like to donate should visit http://uk.movember.com and search for Ryedale District Council.