A GROUP of rugby players in Basingstoke can reach for their razor blades after enduring a hair-growing month to pull in the pounds for a good cause.

As previously reported eight players from Chineham Rugby Club had a cut-throat shave at The Barbershop, in Hackwood Road, Basingstoke, in October before they embarked on a month-long mission to grow their facial hair as part of “Movember”.

The month-long charity fundraiser, which started in Australia in 2003, encourages men to grow facial hair during the 30 days of the month to raise money for the Movember Foundation.

The worldwide charity aims to raise awareness and funds to save the lives of men affected by prostate cancer, testicular cancer and mental health problems.

So far, the charity has raised £346million and has funded over 800 programmes in 21 countries.

The rugby club has managed to raise £860 in support of the good cause.

Spencer Taylor, a 25-year-old prop at the club, said “the handlebar” moustache was a popular choice amongst the players.

He added: “We are very pleased with the amount we raised, and it is a lot better than last year. I would like to thank Simon and Jen from The Barbershop for all their help.”

Donations can still be made to the rugby club’s fundraiser by visiting uk.movember.com/team/1532885 or by making a donation at the clubhouse at Basingstoke Sports and Social Club, Mays Bounty. And the club is also looking for new members. Anyone interested in joining can visit their website at pitchero.com/clubs/chinehamrfc.