Things are getting a little hairy in the newsroom at Kentish Times Newspapers, with five journalists there in the midst of a beard-growing contest.

The editorial team stunt is in aid of the group’s Guide Dog appeal, and on September 1 they agreed to put away their razors for a month.

Taking part are reporters Martin Sawden, Scott Sinclair and Patrick Clift, sports reporter Alex Leach and Kentish Times sports editor Stuart Henderson.

All are swapping their usual clean-shaven look for the best face-fuzz their chins can muster.

And at the end of the month bearded Kent historian, author and columnist Bob Ogley will inpsect their efforts and decide who has the winning whiskers.

So far reporter Martin is out in front, with half an inch of beard growth.

Please, no cheating

Group editor Melody Ryall said: “It’s all a bit of fun to raise money.

“One or two of the men declined to take part but they are making pledges instead.

“The contest is being judged by Bob Ogley who writes our Times Past column, who has an amazing beard.”

The group’s appeal aims to raise £5,000 to fund a guide dog puppy through a one-year training course, and readers have so far helped to raise £4,500.

Now the newly-bearded editorial team hope that, with the help of parent-company Archant’s match-funding scheme, they can raise the final £500 needed.