Beards. For untold generations they have been a valuable ally to men the world over. 

From lending an air of dignity and distinction to the merely old, to cloaking the otherwise dweeby in an aura of hipster charisma, facial follicles have the power to transform the male of the species. 

Now, finally, the vital role played by bears is being formally recognised with Scotland first-ever tournament glorifying these winsome whiskers.

READ MORE: Six alternative Valentine's Day activities in Glasgow

The Braw Beard and Moustache Championships 2017 is set to sprout up at the Drygate Brewery on Saturday, February 18, with categories to suit whether you're sporting a five o'clock shadow, or setting yourself up as Santa Claus. 

The categories are; 

Best Moustache

Best Partial Beard

Best Freestyle

Best Over 4” Styled

Best Under 4” Styled

Best Over 4” Natural

Best Under 4” Natural

Best Ginger Beard

Best Fake/Creative Beard

And though every field has prizes to be won every competitor, whether victorious or not, will win a goodie bag of beard products. 

Set to take place on Saturday, February 18, tickets are £10 for competitors and £7 for spectators. 

Click here for more information about the competition.