HERE they are – Hampshire’s finest selection of beards.

But which are the best?

Last month we launched a search for the best beard in the county after a Daily Echo reader wrote in to set out her opposition to “hirsute monstrosities”.

It sparked a debate between those who see them as an artistic flourish, a method of adding masculinity, or simply a way of keeping warm in winter, and others who see them as an abomination, a coating of hair that adds ten years to a youthful face or a sign of laziness and sloth.

Daily Echo readers have responded in their dozens to our call to see the best beards in the county.

Now we need your help to pick the best.

There are several categories of awards:

  • Best Bushy Beard (Out of control or just a little wild)
  • Most Sensational Super Stubble (Sleek and subtle)
  • Santa Special (for the silver foxes out there)
  • Celebrity Whiskers look-alike (Think ZZ Top)
  • Cool Cat Cut (Matches the Tats)

Our team of bearded judges (no “smoothies” allowed) have put all the entries into the category of their choose – and now it is down to our readers.

You can vote for the Best Bristles Awards 2016 by phone or text.

There will be top prizes galore of grooming products and £50 vouchers for each category winner to spend on that perfect trim or treat.

HOW TO VOTE

By phone*

Call 0901 151 XXXX adding the four digits next to your favourite beard

For example if you would like to vote for beard number 8888, simply dial 0901 151 8888.

By text**

Text the keyword SOBEARD, leave a space, followed by the four digits next to the beard of your choice and send to 80360.

*Calls cost 51p per call plus your phone company’s access charge. **Text messages cost 50p plus your mobile operator’s standard text charge.

Telephone / text lines close at midnight on Tuesday 9 August, service provided by Newsquest Media Group.

Call 0207 998 0549 for help and advice on phone and mobile services.

You can vote as many time as you wish by phone or text.

The beard with the highest number of votes will be declared the winner.

In the event of a tie the editor’s decision will be final.

Normal Echo rules apply, for full details visit www.newsquest.co.uk/terms

LINES NOW OPEN - VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE