Wigan Athletic legend and celebrities get sporty as they join Movember campaign

The Grand Tour presenter Hammond portrays Formula One racing driver Nigel Mansell while Sunday Brunch host Lovejoy has transformed into sports presenter Des Lynam.

Former footballer Jimmy Bullard dresses up as Scottish midfielder Graeme Souness.

Movember, now in its 12th year, encourages men across the country to grow a moustache to help raise money to change the face of men’s health and “help save men’s lives”.

Hammond said: “There’s absolutely no doubt that blokes are traditionally not very good at talking sincerely about health issues.

“Obviously in my instance, because I suffered a brain injury some years ago in a crash, I encountered a lot of people who’ve had brain injuries or mental health issues of one sort or another and there’s still a reluctance to talk about it, which I find incredible and I find very sad.”

Of the ongoing popularity of Movember, Hammond said: “I like the approach of this campaign.

“I like the fact it’s centred on moustaches, so it’s funny and it is saying, ‘Look let’s just talk stuff.’ It’s not trying to make it urgent or pompous and unapproachable.

“It’s about approachability, and about saying, ‘Just talk about it with your mates if you’re worried’.

“If you’re worried about a personal health issue or if you’re worried about a mental health issue, just talk about it with your mates, and you might find either you’ve identified the problem and it’s gone away as a result or you’ve identified the problem and you can plan a course of action to resolve it.”

Hammond was injured in a 2006 crash that left him in a coma for two weeks and with brain injuries after he crashed a jet-powered car at an airfield.

Other celebrities who have shown their support for the campaign include Iwan Thomas, dressed as Sir Ian Botham and comedian and actor Ben Miller, who imitates his childhood hero, former footballer Bruce Grobbelaar.

Radio 1 DJ and former Strictly star Dev Griffin transforms himself into decathlete Daley Thompson, while boxer Luke Campbell is pictured as retired boxer Barry McGuigan.

He added: “It’s now important more than ever for men and all to come together, grow a mo and raise as much money as possible.

“No matter what you type of moustache you sport this year, your efforts will make a huge difference.”

Movember was launched in 2003 and over the years the men’s health movement has gained six million supports across the world, helping 1,250 innovative men’s health projects across 20 countries.

Movember’s executive director Simon Traynor said: ““We want to inspire men to not feel embarrassed by their facial hair, whatever you grow will save a bro.”

Sign up for Movember at www.movember.com/sportsmo

Taking part in Movember? Ring our newsdesk on 01942 506271 or email [email protected].