A team of 30 staff and sixth-formers at Thomas Aveling School in Rochester had their razors at the ready after taking part in Movember.

The team were just itching to shave off their hairy growths that they have been reluctantly sporting throughout November. But it has all been worth it, as they have collected a hair-raising £3,000.

Their initial target was to raise £1,000 for men’s cancer and well-being charities, but the amount just grew and grew along with their ’taches and they have now collected more than £3,000.

The outstanding amount puts the school top of the leader board of schools taking part in the fundraiser throughout the country.

Head teacher Paul Jackson, who went for a “full 70s look”, raised the most money with Modesto Simone, head of modern foreign languages, coming a close-shave second.

Lee Preston, deputy head and Movember team captain, said: “The more ridiculous the better. Our initial aim was to raise £1,000.

“Today we have announced to staff that we have in fact raised £3,000! That is an incredible amount of money and we are so grateful to all those who have sponsored us.

“We set out to have a bit of fun with this in school as we entered dark and cold November days – we have ended up doing this whilst raising over £3,000 for men’s health charities. A very pleasant 2016 surprise for us all.

“I am overwhelmed with the response we have had. That said, I cannot wait to get home and shave this monstrosity off of my top lip.

“As my wife said, she should have also been paid as she has had to look at me all month. My children may be happy to be seen with me in public again now too.”

Head Mr Jackson said: “I made the decision to go for a full 70s tash which was a mistake as it really itched. The upside was people noticed, felt sorry for me and gave me money.”

Mr Simone added: “This was the first time I have taken part in a charity event. Having raised what I did make me very proud. Shame I could not beat Mr Jackson, as my moustache is better than his. But I’m very happy to finish in second place.”

The final total raised was £3,291.