Paul Robinson raises £1,700 for charity by growing beard for a year

Paul before and after shaving his beard off

Paul Robinson has raised £1,700 for Action for Alport’s Campaign by growing his beard for a whole year.

Paul, who works as the doorman at the popular Flying Horse Hotel in Rochdale, began growing his beard on New Year’s Day 2017 and even dyed it grey to really look the part when he dressed up as Father Christmas in December.

He chose the Alport’s campaign, which raises money for research into Alport’s Syndrome, as his close friend Ben Boothman’s son, Oliver, has the disorder - a rare genetic kidney disease which causes deafness and renal failure in those it affects.

Paul has begun growing his infamous beard again, after John Mills shaved it off for him at the Flyer on New Year’s Day.

Paul, who is from Heywood, said: “Ben did something similar a few years ago and I wanted to help out, both raising awareness for the charity and Ben’s family.

“I can’t grow my hair so I thought I might as well grow my beard. I am growing it back now though, but this year I will be trying to lose as much weight as I can for the charity.”

He added: “A massive thank you to everyone who's supported me and donated; it really means a great deal to me. I would also like to really thank John for his generous donation.”

Landlord at the Flying Horse Ben said: “Paul has been part of our Flyer family for over 10 years, and he’s not just an employee, he is a very good friend too. The fact that he's done this for a charity that is very close to our hearts means the absolute world.”

To donate, visit:

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-robinson86