Kenilworth footballers raise thousands of pounds by growing moustaches as part of Movember campaign

Eighteen players from Engine FC, a team formed only two years ago and attached to The Engine pub, took part in the national Movember fundraising campaign and their efforts raised £3,500.

Blake Devitt, who co-founded the team with his friend Sam McKinnon, said: " Our team is made up of local lads aged 19-25 who all grew up playing football together.

"Life took us all separate ways with university, working and travelling. When we all returned back to Kenilworth we wanted to start playing again which is where Ted Bear’s financial help formed the team.

"Now, with the club in its second season, we find ourselves unbeaten, and have only conceded one goal all season.

"The team went from training in the week and playing at the weekend to nothing for the foreseeable future, which hit the lads hard.

"The players wanted to stay connected during their time off the pitch, whilst involving as many people as possible to help a good cause.

"The club decided to do Movember as a team inspired by team captain and leader, on and off the field, Rhys Tummey.

"With this in mind, 18 of the clubs finest decided to take on the challenge and tackle the tache. All of this was to raise money and awareness for Men’s health. Men’s health is as important now as it’s ever been. Both physically and mentally.

"Covid-19 has put a strain on a lot of people’s lives and especially mental health so this year seemed more important than to not only raise money but also awareness.

"The engine boys wanted to start a conversation - one that could save lives.

"The players shared daily updates to show their progress and created competitions through Instagram polls to try and raise as much money and awareness as they could.

"Everyone at the club has been blown away with the support they received on social media from the local community.

"This all lead to Engine FC lads raising over £3,500 for Movember. "