They spent their teenage years trying to grow one, so now they are determined to put their moustaches to good use.

Six staff members - or the Hertsmere Hunks - at the Venue Leisure Centre, in Shenley Road, Borehamwood, have pledged to drop their razors to take part in Movember.

The annual campaign sees millions of men across the world grow their moustaches to help raise cash for prostate cancer charities during the month of November.

For Ricky Brown, an operations manager at the leisure centre, the cause is close to his heart because he lost two grandparents to the disease.

The 29-year-old said: “I think it is a great cause and a really easy and funny way to raise money for charity.

“I do not suit a moustache and I think it makes me look a bit weird looking. When I go outside I get people looking at me and suddenly remember why. You forget it is there.

“It is quite itchy and also very uncomfortable. When you get up in the morning and you feel a bit groggy, you have to remember not to pick up your razor as usual.

“My fiancé, Carly, absolutely hates it. Obviously she is supportive of my cause but it is her birthday this month and said she will be a bit embarrassed when we go out to celebrate.

“It is quite long already. I did it last year too because I think that even though it is embarrassing, hundreds of others are doing it too and it is for a great cause.”

Also taking part include fitness instructor Carl Edwards, delivery officer Jacob Farrell, Leisure Assistant Will Corbett and managers James Ratray and Dwayne Tomlinson.

22-year-old Mr Edwards said: “It means a lot to me to be able to grow a bit of hair on my lip to raise cash for prostate cancer.

“It is not uncomfortable or itchy or anything – even if my girlfriend says otherwise. I did it last year and had a great response so thought I would get involved again this year.”

Other Hertsmere Leisure sites, including the Furzefield Centre, Potters Bar, Bushey Grove Leisure Centre and the Centre in South Oxhey are also taking part in Movember.

Collectively, they have so far raised £120 but are still hoping to beat last year’s total of £259.

Clare Cocomazzi, manager of the Venue, said: “Movember is great and a good laugh for our lads. We hope people will support this fantastic cause.”

To sponsor the boys, click here and type ‘Hertsmere’s Hairy Hunks’ into the search box.