Some of the world's most hirsute faces have gathered on the English south coast to see who has the fullest beard or the most stylish moustache.

Competitors from the UK, America, Germany and many other countries are taking part in the World Beard and Moustache Championships in Brighton.

The 2007 event is being hosted by The Handlebar Club which was set up exactly 60 years ago in a London theatre.

Categories include Dali moustache, goatee and full beard freestyle.

The judging and prize-giving takes place at the Brighton Centre throughout Saturday.

The contest's aim is to "encourage and celebrate standards of excellence in the growth, design and presentation of facial hair", while also "putting a smile on people's faces".

There is a link to some of the competitors 'In Pictures' part way down the page - also found here: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/in_pictures/6974110.stm

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