Now you see it, now you don't: Tim Wallis, the senior partner of north-east firm Crutes, recently shaved his beard off in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital following a bet with a member of staff.

Sporting a few minor cuts on his freshly exposed chin, Mr Wallis said: 'To say I was nervous would be an understatement as the last time I was without a beard was when I came to Crutes in 1976 for my interview.'