Following months of bowel discomfort when I was 37, I had a colonoscopy. Two lumps were removed that I was told could be potentially cancerous.

The result was that had the lumps gone undiscovered, they were of the variety that would have become dangerous. I now have to be checked every three years. Last year's check-up revealed a further lump which was again removed safely.

From believing through my teens, 20's and 30's that I was somehow indestructible, this was a real wake up call. That’s why I’m supporting Beating Bowel Cancer’s Decembeard campaign  by growing a beard! I hope to encourage other men to get involved, get talking about the disease and help to raise funds for the charity which does so much to support those affected by bowel cancer.

Please support my bearded challenge!