CUSTOMERS at a hardware store with a history dating back to 1823 may have noticed the appearance of shop staff changing during the past few weeks.

The team at Partridges in High Street, Hadleigh have adopted a “traditional” look to match their historic surroundings, in support of the Movember men’s health campaign.

Ironmongery manager, Trevor Clarke, 33, said the company supported fundraising initiatives every year, but this was the first time staff had attempted to grow facial hair in the name of charity. He said: “We have done things to raise money for breast cancer charities before, but as at least half of our staff are men, we thought it would be good to help raise awareness of the health issues that can affect men. One of our team had a friend who died from testicular cancer so it was particularly important to him.”

According to Mr Clarke, some of the fundraisers are finding it more difficult than others to “grow a mo”. He added: “My moustache is coming through quite dark so I’m okay but I am sure a few of the mos in the store have been dyed or boosted with mascara to make them look more impressive.”

Partridges customers, who have been donating online and via collecting tins on the counters, have embraced the new look. Mr Clarke concluded: “I think the customers feel our appearance ties in well with the shop and on a personal level, some of our partners say they prefer us with moustaches. However, I think it will take some convincing to persuade us to keep them come Decemeber.”