NO, Rev Roger Gayler did not get ready for work in the dark – he is making a statement. Mr Gayler, vicar at St Marks Church, Rose Lane, Marks Gate, has shaved off half his beard to raise awareness of Christian Aid week, which began on Sunday. The new ap

NO, Rev Roger Gayler did not get ready for work in the dark - he is making a statement.

Mr Gayler, vicar at St Marks Church, Rose Lane, Marks Gate, has shaved off half his beard to raise awareness of Christian Aid week, which began on Sunday.

The new appearance is supposed to highlight the divide between rich and poor.

He said: "It allows people to see how the other half live and symbolises the two halves of the world."

The 65-year-old vicar, who has not been clean shaven for 42 years, has raised more than �500 so far with the stunt.

He said: "It was less painful than I thought it was going to be. It doesn't feel any different and some people haven't even noticed - I guess it depends which way I'm facing."

Christian Aid week aims to raise money for people living in poverty.