BUSHY, long, funny, groovy and ginger the best in facial hair was on show at the Bathurst's Best Beards semi-final last Thursday night.

More than 200 people came along to the Elephant and Castle Hotel to see the best in beards, all in the name of raising funds for the 2015 2BS Bathurst Lions Christmas Miracle Appeal.

The best novelty beards were announced on the evening, along with the beards that received the most 'likes' on Facebook, to give the top 15 finalists.

Competition organiser Sandy Bathgate said there were some spectacular examples of beards during the eight novelty judging categories.

Novelty winners were Phill O'Neill (ginger), Brian Parker (grey), Arcadia Tamarind (longest), Andy Nelson (grooviest), Adam Kemp (designer), Torin Jones (funniest), Mark Bell (bushiest) and Craig Gallegos (shortest).

"They were judged by our three female judges, with a little bit of influence by the most likes received on Facebook, and also the beard's merit," Mr Bathgate said.

Of the seven top beards to receive the most 'likes' on Facebook, Tim Jeffree's spectacularly long, grey beard attracted the most (117).

The final six with an impressive number of likes were Kevin Shute, Jade Flynn, Andrew Prior, Sam Larnach, James Culpitt and Tory Locke.

"Each finalist was given a big money tin with their beard picture on it. They have to fill that up with sponsorships over the next four weeks and all the money goes to the Christmas Miracle Appeal," Mr Bathgate said.

"Every dollar they collect is a vote for them to be People's Choice Best Beard.

"They will put their tins into cafes, clubs, pubs and shops, so if you see a tin around town, please pop a note or some coins in."

All 15 finalists will be judged at the Colonial Fair at Bicentennial Park at noon on Saturday, May 9.