A big-hearted nine-year-old has had her long, flowing locks shaved off in a bid to help sick children.
Ellie Turner from Rosyth has raised more than £2,100 for Cancer Research and children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent more than 10 times her £200 target.
The youngster took to the hairdresser’s chair on Saturday after witnessing Kings Road Primary classmate Noah Duncan twice losing his hair in his battle with cancer.
Noah, 10, and his family were at Munroe’s Hair and Beauty in Dunfermline, along with Ellie’s mum and dad, Lynn and Craig, to see hairdresser Marie Turner take clippers to the youngster’s shoulder-length, brown hair.
Lynn said she was incredibly proud of her daughter.
“She’s had a number four all over. The challenge was 100% Ellie’s idea,” she said.
“It was very emotional, especially for Marie whose sister Linda died of breast cancer a few years ago.”
Noah’s mum Brenda said Ellie was only too aware of the effect cancer could have on children and had wanted to make a difference.
“When Ellie’s mum told me that her daughter wanted to shave off her hair for CLIC and wanted Noah to join her on the day, I burst into tears,” she said.
“I kept thinking what an incredible selfless act from such a young child. Her determination to help children her age is totally inspirational.”
Brenda added that she hoped Ellie’s efforts would inspire others to do their bit for charity.
“Charities such as CLIC certainly played a vital part in our lives during Noah’s treatment,” she said.
“I urge people to support Ellie in her efforts because no matter how much money she raises, her contribution will touch lives for the better.
“What Noah’s friend is doing is absolutely beautiful and our family are very grateful to her,” said Brenda.
People can still make donations by logging on to www.virginmoneygiving.com/ellieturner.
Photo by David Wardle