The leader of Merton Council had a close shave this week, but not in the council chamber - outside it.

Councillor Stephen Alambritis spent two months growing a beard for charity before having it shaved off in front of on-lookers outside the civic offices in Morden.

Your Local Guardian:

Nervous: Coun Alambritis preparing for the big shave. 

Wimbledon barber Aggie Stylianou did the honours, complete with a hot towel and shaving foam, with reassuring words about Sweeney Todd, the Demon Barber.

Coun Alambritis said: "He was very sensitive, talking about Sweeney Todd, but it was for a good cause.

Your Local Guardian:

Aggie Stylianou with Coun Alambritis

"I am really pleased I have done it.

"Growing facial hair is a personal thing, it is a real test and a bit of fun."

He said Mrs Alambritis is happier with the clean-shaven look.

Coun Alambritis raised about £4,000 for the mayor of Merton’s charities, Shooting Star CHASE Children’s Hospice and Merton Street Pastors.

In 2011 he grew a grand curling moustache and raised just over £2,500 for Parkinson’s UK Merton Branch.

Your Local Guardian:

All done: Coun Alambritis admires his newly shaven face.

To sponsor Coun Alambritis, visit the website.

The shave, by Mr Stylianou of The Park Barbers in Arthur Road, Wimbledon, took place on Monday, September 8.