Hundreds of people have donned eccentric costumes, hats and garments and headed to Blackpool to compete in the fourth biannual British Beard & Moustache Championships.  

The charity fundraising event is an open championship meaning no club membership or affiliation is required to enter, but it is run by a Blackpool bearded men's club.

The contest is inclusive meaning it is gender neutral, and open to people from all nationalities and sexualities can apply.

This year, there are 21 categories including Freestyle, Handmade Creative, Natural and under 16s. The organisers even offer free entry for under 12s able to compete.

This biennial event, previously held in Brighton (2012), Bristol (2014) and Liverpool (2016), attracts competitors, their families, friends, spectators and supporters, with and without whiskers, from all over the world.

Blackpool is also home to many major tourist attractions, mostly notable the Blackpool tower. See more photos below

Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.

Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.Check out photos from the British Beard & Moustache Championships in Blackpool.