Lancaster rock guitarist braves beard shave for charity

The bass player of top Lancaster rock band Massive Wagons has a new look and it's all for a great cause.

Adam 'Bowzer' Bowskill had his distinctive long beard shaved off - while the band have been on tour in Germany - as part of the Movember movement for charity.

Adam braved the shave live on the band's Instagram page in aid of men's health awareness including mental health, testicular and prostate cancer.

He said it was the first time in around 15 years that he'd been properly clean shaven.

"HAVE YOU SEEN THIS MAN? No, we haven't got a new bass player," posted the band this week, on their official social media channels.

"In case you missed it, we went live last night to shave off Bowzer's beard - all in the good name of Movember!"

Adam himself posted: "Well, I didn’t think my face would be this cold.

"But if this and maybe looking a bit odd can raise money for a great cause then it’s but a small price I’m more than willing to pay.

The band pictured, with Adam pre-shave, during their current tour of Germany. Photo: Massive Wagons

"Movember isn’t just about growing a distinguished ’tache, it’s to raise awareness for a few things mens health related. Mental health, general health, testicular cancer and prostate cancer.

"The fact a small gesture like removing part of my personality and persona….I jest…can raise money and awareness for such a great thing is a no brainer!

"Thank you to everyone that has already donated. I have no limit or target, just as much as I can. Again, thank you!" 

Adam has raised more than £1600 at time of writing at his fundraising page HERE.

Massive Wagons are the Lancaster and Morecambe Bay area's most successful rock band with four UK Top 20 albums and a string of sell-out shows all over Europe. They will be headlining the Lancaster Christmas Lights Switch On on Sunday November 29, on the main stage in Market Square hosted by Beyond Radio.

Massive Wagons

Their most recent studio album 'Earth to Grace' was released in 2024 and reached number four in the UK Album Charts.

Their previous album 'Triggered' reached number six in the UK Album Charts in 2022.

'House of Noise' reached number nine in 2020 and prior to that, 'Full Nelson' made number 16 in 2018.

The band also recorded a live album at a gig at The Great Hall, Lancaster University, in September 2025.

The other band members are Baz Mills, Adam Thistlethwaite, Stevie Holl and Alex Thistlethwaite.

Read more: EXCLUSIVE: Massive Wagons to headline Lancaster Christmas Lights Switch On 2026 - Beyond Radio