A TRAINEE hairdresser is planning to shave all her hair off later this month to raise funds for a cause close to her heart.

Hannah Smith from Parkstone, who studies at Bournemouth and Poole College at the Lansdowne, has already raised more than £450 worth of sponsorship for her close shave.

The 18-year-old said: “Everyone thinks I’m mad, particularly my boyfriend Aaron, but I’d determined to make a difference. I’ve already been sponsored by friends, other students and staff. There’s no way I’m going to back out now.”

Money raised by the sponsored shave at the college’s Flair hairdressing salon at 5pm on January 14 will go towards Cancer Research UK.

Hannah, who works part-time as a balloon decorator in Poole but has her sights firmly set on a hairdressing career, is planning the bold step in memory of her grandfather Eric who died from cancer several years ago.

Eric’s wife, Hannah’s grandmother Valerie Richardson, is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer.

Hannah said: “I know other people whose lives have been affected by cancer and want to raise as much money as possible; particularly for my grandparents.”

Flair booking co-ordinator Alina Jaroch praised Hannah’s plucky decision to shave her hair off for charity, adding: “After Christmas, there is no better time to show that we care about others.”

If you would like to sponsor Hannah as she prepares to lose her crowning glory you can phone her on 07803 423582.

A sponsorship form is available at Let’s Party on Ashley Road, Parkstone.