“I am an ex-Soldier and Firefighter who for obvious reasons was not allowed to grow substantial facial hair in the Services, and decided to attempt to grow a decent beard when I retired from the Fire Service in April 2015.

“It seems to be growing well and it will be interesting to see how long it can get!

“I now run a running/outdoors/events company organising events and coaching runners and outdoor skills including navigation and map reading.

“I am also the Chairman of the UK Trail Running Association.

“Remember - having a beard makes you 10% more awesome by default.”