A KIND-hearted woman has lopped off her locks to help raise more than £7000 for charity.

Kim Osmond, from West Lulworth, shaved off her long hair to raise funds for Cancer Research and Great Ormond Street Hospital – causes she says are close to her heart.

Kim chose Cancer Research after the death of her friend, Tony Orchard.

Tony, godfather to Kim’s two sons, died of kidney cancer in January, aged 53.

Kim said: “Over the years, I’ve seen too many people sadly pass away to this awful illness. Friends I went to school with. I wanted to give something so I decided to shave my head.

“I was a bit nervous before it, but it’s for a good cause and I actually think it really suits me.”

Kim raised £3,485 for the charity and £515 for Great Ormond Street.

She credits the hospital with saving the life of her two-year-old nephew, Joey Hammond, when he was born.

“There were complications and it was quite traumatic,” said Kim. “But they saved him and they saved everything about him. They did an amazing job. “

Kim, along with her friends, Clare Gumn and Shelley Farrow, had her hair shaved off at a fundraising evening at the Ringwood Tavern.

There was live music, a raffle and those who donated were able to snip Kim’s hair.

Between them, the trio raised £7,000.

Kim said: “It’s been absolutely amazing. I never expected to raise so much money. The generosity of people has been amazing.

“I’ve had the support of friends and family, which has been amazing, and strangers have been so generous. Everyone has sponsored me, it’s been great.

“It’s been a good experience and I have thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Kim, who works at Galton Garden Centre, added: “The customers have been fantastic and I’d like to say a massive ‘thank you.”

To donate, visit https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/KimboOsmond