The International World Beard and Moustache Championships are underway in the little village of Leogang in Austria. More than 350 contestants from 20 countries are there to vy for an international placing.

For over a year, and more in some cases, the contestants have groomed and pruned their spectacular beards and moustaches as though they were works of art.

Most of the competitors are from Germany and Austria, however there are bearded people from around the world.

The jury will judge beards in 18 different categories, including best goatie, best stubble, best fashion beard, best full beard, best Amish beard, best sideburns and the like.

CLICK HERE for the official site of the championships.

Here are some of the best: