A TEACHING assistant will lose 15 inches of her hair to raise money for a charity that makes real hair wigs for children with cancer.

Leah Rothwell, aged 22, who works at a school in Bolton will get her hair cut at the Black Bull pub in Lowercroft Road on Friday, May 3.

Ms Rothwell, who lives in Bradley Fold, says it is something she has "wanted to do for a while".

She said: "We have all been affected by cancer and it is more difficult for children to deal with it when it happens to them.

"The wigs give children more confidence and make it easier for them to go into school.

"It costs about £500 for the hair to be turned into wigs, so that is why I am trying to raise money as well as donating my hair.

"I have never had it so short before so I am a bit nervous."

The children’s cancer charity supplies real hair wigs to children suffering with cancer for the duration of their treatment.

They also assist with other conditions resulting in hair loss, including alopecia.

Ms Rothwell initially wanted to raise £250 but, after smashing her target, she is now hoping to raise £1,500.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/leah-rothwell.