Bill Bailey launches 'Ape-ril' Orangutan beard campaign

What has your chin got to do with orangutan conservation? Quite a lot, according to Bill Bailey.

The comedian, who is the patron of the Sumatran Orangutan Society (SOS), has launched 'Ape-ril', a charity campaign that is asking people around the world to show solidarity with the critically endangered Sumatran orangutan species by going wild and growing a beard throughout April.

Bailey says: "Help orangutans this Ape-ril! We're apes too, so go wild and grow a beard - by raising awareness, and vital funds, we can make a real and lasting impact on the survival of orangutans. And that's got to be worth a bit of an itchy chin."

Explaining his own affinity with orangutans, the musical comic adds: "We share 96.4% of our DNA with orangutans - some of us, perhaps, a little more... I've been told I look like a man of the forest."

People are being encouraged to visit the campaign website, download a fundraising guide featuring tips on beard growth etc, and start getting sponsorship in preparation for the facial fuzz they're going to create during April. You'll be able to upload pictures of yourself to the 'Hairy Hall of Fame' on Facebook for a chance to win a prize, and anyone who raises over £250 will also receive a special t-shirt.

What if you've already got a beard? The charity says that doesn't stop you taking part! SOS suggests you stop trimming and go full on native for the month, or shave it all off and start from scratch. Or you could go really wild and decorate your beard, or dye it orangutan-orange! Women and children can take part too, by wearing a false beard for a day, a week or even the whole month.

Bill Bailey isn't the only comedian supporting the fundraising drive. The surreal and notably hirsute stand-up Tony Law (pictured) is also getting behind the campaign. He says "Growing a beard is something that all male apes can do. Get in touch with your wild side and ask everyone you know to sponsor you to change your face for Ape-ril."

Law also offer the following tips: "Get a team of Beardy Buddies together so you can offer each other support if things get a bit itchy, and swap grooming tips. My own top tip for a lustrous beard is... descend from Vikings. If you've already got a beard, then get creative with topiary or decorations, or dye it orangutan-orange."

Helen Buckland, the director of the Sumatran Orangutan Society, explains more about the end goals of Ape-ril: "SOS supports frontline conservation projects in Sumatra, and campaigns against the destruction of the rainforests. The funds raised during Ape-ril will help us keep working to protect orangutans, their forests and their future."

On his support for the charity, Bailey concludes: "Sumatran orangutans are on the edge of extinction, but SOS are working hard to turn this around - they deserve your support."

To find out more about 'Ape-ril' visit www.ape-ril.org