Hairy times as Movember takes off!

Movember is well and truly underway in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League.

Players, fans and officials from Blyth Spartans, Ilkeston FC and Warrington Town have already helped individuals and fan groups add nearly £700 to the running total of combined fundraising across the league the NPL Facebook Group is keeping a track on for the second year running.

The fan-run NPL Facebook Group's final tally across the league last year added up to more than £20,000. To help outstrip that figure this time around, organisers want any groups or individuals connected to the league to sign up to the dedicated page they've set up on the official Movember website.

More than a million men are expected to raise in excess of £100m this month for men's health charities by getting their new facial hair sponsored and the NPL Facebook Group says it hopes to show the world what a 'proud and newly bearded and moustachioed NPL can do!"

Blyth Spartans are getting behind efforts en masse after deciding to take part in Movember for the first time. Not only are manager Tom Wade, assistant manager Colin Myers and goalkeeper coach John Bottensien representing the coaching staff by throwing away their razors, the Premier Division's award winning media team are also on board.

Head of Media Phil Castiaux, Senior Press Officer Mark Carruthers and Programme Editor Adam Sancaster are now growing their 'mos' to raise awareness of men's health issues and raise funds for testicular and prostate cancer charities.

Spartans manager Tom Wade said: "There are people inside the club who have seen members of their families or friends diagnosed with either testicular or prostate cancer so as a club we want to make a stand and take part in Movember.

"It is a wonderful event and we as a club are proud to take part. I urge everyone to get behind us and raise money and awareness for a fantastic cause."

To join the NLP Facebook Group's Movember appeal visit: uk.movember.com/mospace/network/view/id/29761