THE BIG DEBATE… Colum Eastwood’s beard: should it stay or should it go?

The big debate is on – and we are not talking about the race to the White House or who should replace Sam Allerdyce as the next manager of the England.

When you mention the word “debate” and SDLP leader Colum Eastwood in the one sentence, one automatically assumes the topic would be politics.

But, not on this occasion.

You see, the Foyle MLA is the latest gent to grow a beard and the 33-year-old father-of-one’s new look, including a distinctive grey spot on the chin, has sparked a debate online.

Among those who like it are Oisin Mor, who says “Lovin the beard in fairness” and Barry Turley who posted “Beards rule. Full stop.”

However, Loren Bonner, is among those who are not so impressed - she jokingly posted :”Ah get if off Colum Eastwood it makes u look yeas older lol.”

What do you think – should it stay or should it go?

Photo shows Mr Eastwood sporting his new look when he appeared on the BBC NI’s politics programme “The Link.”