“In 2007 I was in the audience for the World Beard & Moustache Championships as a curious onlooker. Curiosity soon turned to fascination, and I became a Beard Blogger!

“After a few years of papping unsuspecting bearded fellows someone suggested I run a contest in Liverpool. The first BeerdFest was held in December 2012 and was a huge success, even resulting in the formation of local beard club The Liverbeards!

“With a winning formula of beards, beer and music, this bijou beard festival has gone from strength to strength each year and 2015 will be our fourth meet. Brian Blessed is now a Patron and Lifetime Achievement Award Alumni, sending us messages for broadcast on the night.

“We raise funds and awareness for men's mental health charity CALM, and now hold the event on World Beard Day, which is the first Saturday in September.”