FOR 38 years well known Spreyton landlord Roger Cudlip has sported a moustache — but if the community raises £1,000 that famous trademark is coming off.

Roger (pictured), who first grew a moustache at the age of 18, is helping Crediton and Tedburn Young Farmers' Club in its quest to raise as much money as possible for CHICKS (Country Holidays for Inner City Kids.)

The 56-year-old said he liked to support the young people and thought it was a great cause: 'I think it is nice that the youngsters are doing something and I am pleased to help. When I told the customers in the pub on Monday night that the moustache was coming off we got £250 just on that night.'

Roger said he was not worried about losing his moustache and thought it might make him look younger. He said it was his wife Carol who might miss it more: 'My missus likes it or she would not have let me keep it this long. I've not got much hair on my head so I grew it on my chin instead.'

The landlord, who is known for his sense of humour and was 'bridesmaid' at his sister-in-law's wedding complete with dress and moustache because of a promise he made to her when she was 13, is hoping someone well known will come and do the deed — maybe a famous hairdresser or landlord.

He will be donating half of the money he raises to CHICKS and half to the Devon Air Ambulance.

Over the last two years the YFC has raised £5,307 for the Children's Hospice South West and members will be making regular visits to the Tom Cobley Inn to drum up sponsorship for the big moustache-shaving event.