Thurso man says goodbye to 20-year-old beard at public charity shave event
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A Thurso man bids a fond farewell to his long-established beard at public event in Thurso next week in aid of a local mental health charity.
Dounreay worker Ryan Buttress will have his 20-year-old beard shaved off at Stepping Stones, run by the Caithness Mental Health Support Group, on the town's Riverside Road at 6pm on Monday (February 27).
"I haven't been clean shaven since starting in Top Joes as a young barman in December 2002. Grew a beard and started smoking to give me a bit of edge – only the beard remains for now," said Ryan.
Donations are welcomed for Join in More (JiM) a local men’s health and support group and Ryan's JustGiving fundraising page has already accumulated over £600 for the charity. Murdo Mcconnell will be getting his chest waxed along with a beardless Ryan at the event as well.
Those wishing to donate to Ryan's fundraiser should follow this link: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/save-our-jim
The JiM group, which Ryan has greatly benefited from in the past, is a much needed safe space for men to talk openly about their feelings and mental wellbeing. It provides the opportunity for social interaction, friendship, and company to its users, with the age range spanning many decades.
Ryan says about the group: "That's were I have found the most benefit. I didn't realise just how lonely I was, how lacking I had become in having face-to-face interaction with other men, all different, all unique, who may be experiencing similar struggles to me.
"We listen, support, encourage, and we hold each other accountable. We have all built an incredible support group in both Thurso and Wick, and it has been facilitated and nurtured by Listening Ear.
"Unfortunately funding is a huge issue all around the country, and many of us are feeling the pinch. Our basic operating costs have increased such as venue usage, tea and coffee, and the purchase of food for when we host an event."
