A leading community politician has raised an impressive sum of money for a worthy cause simply by growing a moustache and then shaving it off

 Councillor Stephen Alambritis, the Greek Cypriot Leader of Merton Council in South West London, raised over £3,000 when the growth under his nose was shaved last week outside the Civic Centre in Merton. The money was raised in aid of Parkinsons UK. The charity funds groundbreaking research to improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson’s which is a progressive neurological condition.

 The shaving ceremony was done by local barber, Mr Phokas Mavrommatis. Mr Mavrommatis has been a barber in Merton since 1969. There was music to go with the shaving ceremony provided by the well known bouzouki player, Nicos Shakolas.

 Councillor Alambritis said ” So many people have contributed to this worthy cause including businesses, residents and councillors and staff from the Town Hall. I want to thank them all.”

 Alambritis continued “The charity does excellent work. Every hour, someone is told they have Parkinson’s and one in every 500 people has Parkinson’s. There is currently no cure for the condition and no one knows why people get Parkinson’s. The sums raised will contribute to the ongoing search for a cure.”