THE crew at Ludlow Fire Station have finished their Movember challenge, with the firefighters having grown their moustaches to mark the annual event raising awareness of men's health issues.

Movember is a campaign that encourages people to show their support by growing their facial hair throughout November. 

The team raised £2,148, which was £148 more than its target of £2,000.

The fire station wrote on social media: "We have successfully completed Movember. Our goal was to raise £2,000. We're thrilled to announce that our collective efforts have raised a total of £2,148 for the Movember charity.

"Not only have we made a significant contribution, but we're honoured to secure the third place in the 2023 fire and rescue Movember challenge. This challenge involved over 20 fire services or individual stations. We've raised awareness for men's mental health, suicide prevention and awareness, and cancer.

"A special mention goes to Chris Bayliss for completing a 100k run throughout the Movember month. Great effort!

"Lastly, but by no means least, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who generously supported our Movember campaign.

"A special appreciation to Carters of Ludlow for organising a raffle to back our cause along the way."

Earlier in the month, a spokesperson for the station told the Ludlow Advertiser: "The station proudly continues its support for Movember for the second consecutive year, aiming to address issues such as cancer, mental health and suicide prevention. We also aspire to fundraise for local causes and charities."

Funds raised in the Movember campaign go towards men's health initiatives locally and globally. 

The Movember website says: "Our fathers, brothers and friends are facing a crisis, and we can't afford to stay silent.

"We are the leading charity changing the face of men's health. Suicide, prostate cancer and testicular cancer - we're taking them all on.

"Movember has funded more than 1,250 men's health projects around the world, challenging the status quo, and transforming health services. We exist to help men live longer lives."