The 'Honest Amish' British Beard & Moustache Championships comes to Plymouth
One of the most unusual competitions in the UK is coming to Plymouth this October.
Often described as a cross between Miss World and Crufts, the British Beard & Moustache Championships celebrates the very best in facial hair every two years.
For 2024 it's being organised by a Devon-based team, headed by Mike and Clair Wellsbury-Nye. They have previously hosted similar events in Plymouth and Exeter, known as the Devon & Cornwall Beard & Moustache Championships (DCBMC).
"We're looking forward to bringing national and international competitors to Plymouth, and showing them the best of the city and surrounding areas" said Plymouth-born Mike. "We're also looking forward to showing the local community what a fun event this is, and encouraging people to get involved."
If you're interested in taking part, you simply buy a ticket and turn up on the day. There's no requirement to have taken part in a previous beard and moustache competition or to be specially invited.
And for reassurance that size doesn't matter, it's not just 'biggest beard wins'! There's many different categories of beards and moustaches, including Short Beard (think 'Action Man') and the crazy creations of Freestyle. From waxed curly moustaches to big bushy beards, all competitors are judged against others of similar styles and sizes.
"Everyone and anyone is very welcome, as competitors or as spectators" said Clair. "There's even 'handmade' categories for people without their own facial hair, including children."
The event's motto is 'All Aboard!', bringing together the themes of Plymouth's maritime heritage, encouraging visitors to the city, and growing the beardy community around Devon and Cornwall.
"It's a really friendly community," Clair continued. "We promote charity fundraising, mental health, and positive male role models. It's great for the competitors to enjoy looking and feeling their best - whether that's wearing their favourite suit or having a bit of fun with a costume."
But fancy dress - or even wearing a suit - really isn't compulsory. "We just want everyone to have a good time, and help us raise plenty of money for our chosen charities, the Devon and the Cornwall Air Ambulance Trusts," said Mike. He added "many thanks to our title sponsor, international beard care brand Honest Amish, for funding this event so that all money raised on the day and from ticket sales can be donated to those vital services".
The 'Honest Amish' British Beard & Moustache Championships take place at noon on 12 October at The Duke of Cornwall Hotel in Plymouth.
To find out more and get your tickets, go to bbmchamps.co.uk.
