Movember Men Raises Millions

Irish men have raised more than €1.1 million euro for charity by growing moustaches for the month of November.

The "Movember" campaign, organised by the Irish Cancer Society, has become hugely popular in recent years as part of global initiative to tackle prostate cancer.

More than 12,700 men took part in this year's campaign in Ireland.

They agreed to grow (mostly very unfashionable) moustaches in return for charity donations from their friends.

In addition to the money raised, the hairy upper lip becomes a symbol of awareness of men's health, much like a red ribbon or a wristband have become for other causes.

This year's efforts broke records, with 450,000 men around the world taking part, raising at least €45 million.

In Ireland, organisers said they were delighted with the response, particularly in a climate where charities were suffering due to the economic downturn.

Mercifully, most men waved goodbye to the facial hair last Wednesday, returning to the clean shaven look just in time for their office Christmas parties.