A hirsute gardener missed out on first prize in a national moustache contest - after styling the winner’s tache.

Frazer Coppin won second place in the musketeer category of the British Beard and Moustache Championships, held in Bath.

Mr Coppin, of St Mary’s Road, Rivenhall, said: “I spoilt my chances of first place, unfortunately, because me being the sportsman I am, I helped one of the contestants.

“I styled his moustache for him and he came first.”

He is not worried though as he is good friends with the winner, Drew Muncaster.

Mr Coppin has entered moustache contests - always in the musketeer category - since 2007.