Dave Thompson pauses to show off his unsual hairstyle. PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY

Dave Thompson is feeling the chill after a sharp snip during the cold snap left him shorn of his beloved beard and flowing locks.

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Mr Thompson celebrated his 70th birthday on Sunday with a sponsored shave that left him beard-less for the first time in 40 years.

The former teacher, from Rye Close, North Walsham, was cut down to size at The Bluebell pub, with all donations and sponsorship going to Citizens Advice North Norfolk (CANN).

Before the momentous cut, carried out by local hairdresser Lorraine Wright, he told how he volunteered for CANN and wanted to raise money to support it.

He said: “I’ve been working as an advisor for seven years now. We’ve had 40pc funding cuts and this is to draw attention to that. At the same time the CAB is being asked to take on a lot more work.”

He added: “I’ve had a beard for over 40 years in different shapes and sizes. My children, Francesca and Ben, have never seen me without a beard. They are a bit worried about what I’m going to look like.

“I recently let my hair and beard grow longer as a last protest before I get too old. But then I got fed up with it.”

Mr Thompson was supported by friends and regulars at the pub. A number of people took the opportunity of giving a £1 donation to the charity in exchange for snipping off one of his locks.

● To make a donation, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com and search for Citizens Advice North Norfolk.