A MAN is shaving his 18-year-old beard to raise money for Newbury Soup Kitchen, this month.

Thomas Tunney has been volunteering at the soup kitchen for more than two years and has decided to shave his beard to raise money for the organisation.

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He explained he has been growing his beard since 2001 and is both excited and nervous to see it go.

Mr Tunney works as a technical manager for an audio rental company and during tours many people joked they would cut his beard off in the night.

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Mr Tunney said: "Now is the chance to actually get it done."

A JustGiving page was set up on Wednesday and so far £1,316 has been raised of the £2,000 target.

Mr Tunney said it's "great that people are donating" and hopes to exceed his target to help the soup kitchen look after people this winter.

Mr Tunney, who is also the secretary for the Newbury Labour party, said: "My wife has never seen my chin."

He explained she is excited to see his beard shaved off.

Newbury Soup Kitchen is a voluntary organisation providing help and support to the Newbury homeless, rough sleeper community and those less fortunate than others.

They offer a friendly drop-in centre every Thursday at 8 Northcroft Lane from 6-8pm for vulnerable adults who perhaps have mental health issues or are just lonely.

They welcome all comers with hot food for the evening, a friendly face and a welcome opportunity to chat.

To donate to Mr Tunney's JustGiving page click here.