Dunfermline bus driver Scott Pirrie to brave the shave for charity

Big-hearted Scott Pirrie will say goodbye to his beloved beard later this month for the fundraiser in aid of Andy's Man Club.

Scott was forced to start growing his beard two years ago when he was struck with an illness which made it difficult for him to hold a razor.

"I fell seriously ill and I couldn't hold my razor straight as my hands were shaking all over the place so stopped shaving because of that," he explained.

"I had a growth in my sinus and had to get it removed. It started off with a sinus infection and grew into something wore and I lost my driving licence, my job, my bus licence because the illness affected my balance – I couldn't stand up properly.

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"When I was ill and lost my job, I was quite depressed. I felt I was not the man I should be, I was not doing what a man should do and providing for his wife and house."

Having suffered from mental health issues in the past, Scott is determined to help a cause which is helping so many people in the local area.

"I have suffered in the past with severe depression and a couple of the guys I know at my work are going through a hard time the now," he said.

"I have had really bad depression and anxiety and it was getting to the point hearing about so many people taking their lives because things were getting too much.

"I thought I need to do something. I have supported a couple of my colleagues over the last year and I just want to give back to a charity close to my heart.

"Andys Man Club are amazing. I have not dealt with them but they are the most predominant force for men in Fife who have got to the point where they need support. I just wanted to do a bit to help them do more of what they do.

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"You never know, five years down the line, I might need them and I want them to still be there for a men like myself.

Scott has already raised over £700 and is hoping he will reach £1,000 by the time of the shave on December 28.

"My step daughter Emma works at Dare Hairdressing in Abbeyview. and she is going to be doing it," he added. "I am very attached to it but it is for a good cause.

"I don't want to lose it – I look about 10 without it. It is a manly thing although my wife Jill doesn't like it and will be happy to see it go."

Anyone wanting to contribute to the fundraising can do so my visiting the Wee Maws Crochet Creations page on Facebook which is run by Scott's wife, Jill.