A little local star from Christchurch has had her long locks cropped for the Little Princess Trust.

Layla Corby, aged 12, recently underwent the sponsored chop to raise funds for the Little Princess Trust charity, which makes wigs for children affected by hair loss through illness such as alopecia or following cancer treatment.

Since its inception, the Little Princess Trust has given away over 5,000 free wigs. With a rising demand, the charity requires more help to generate donations. The charity can accept a minimum hair donation of 7-inches/17cm, however, there is greater need for hair over 12-inches/30cm which can make longer wigs.

Layla wanted to help other children feel better and more confident. Her hair is a huge part of her identity and she uses her hair to hide behind due to her own lack of confidence and anxiety so this was quite an accomplishment for her.

The hair cut was carried out with the help of Jackie and salon owner Molly at The Parlour Hair Boutique in New Milton.

Layla’s father, Stuart Corby, said: "Layla's hair is so beautiful and measured a staggering 36-inches from top to bottom. She has never had a big hair cut and is incredibly attached to her hair as it's been a big part of her identity for a very long time. She uses her hair to hide behind, so this was a really big deal to her. This is something she's wanted to do for some time and selflessly decided to have it cut for the charity to donate it to those who are a lot less fortunate than her. Layla's kind, loving nature sees this as the best possible way she can do something to help others.

"Layla was a little nervous to start, but she absolutely loves her new look. So far, she has raised £487, just £13 short of her £500 target, so a huge thank you to everyone who has donated, but it would be amazing if we could get this total even higher as it is a great cause."

If you would like to support Layla and donate, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/StuartCorby.