Ref. 72595-60 Warneford School pupil Damien HawkinsREBEL student Damien Hawkins may have had a close shave by only getting suspended for his pro-kissing protest.

But he is planning a new battle when he returns to Warneford School, Highworth, next week.

While the protest against a canoodling ban was supported by both girls and boys, this time the contentious issue is a male only topic beards.

Damien one of eight students suspended for the protest plans to fight to retain his goatee.

Teachers have told the 15-year-old to shave but defiant Damien has refused to comply, accusing staff of hypocrisy.

While Damien has only a few whiskers which have taken him two months to cultivate headteacher John Saunders has a full beard.

"It's completely hypocritical there are about five teachers with facial hair," said Damien, of Queen's Avenue, Highworth.

"We have been told we can't even grow sideburns.

"At least seven of my friends have beards and we have all been told to shave them off.

"I was told my beard is against school rules and I was sent to the head.

"He said his beard was allowed because he was a teacher. I can't understand it because goatees aren't even scruffy, in fact they're quite formal."

Damien plans to write to school governors calling for equal beard rights for pupils and staff and is starting a petition.

The youngster was one of the ringleaders of last week's protest against a ban on "inappropriate behaviour" such as kissing and holding hands.

Of the 200 students who took part, eight including Damien's sister Shuanna, 13 refused to return to classes. They were suspended for a week but are now due to return either today or Monday.

Damien's mother Teresa Malone supported her children for standing up for their beliefs. She met Mr Saunders yesterday to discuss the situation.

Mr Saunders was unavailable for comment.

Tamash Lal