A MUM-OF-THREE had her head shaved for charity after a friend was diagnosed with cancer.
Fay Stuart, 32, of Cornwall Cresent, Chelmsford has two daughters who attend the Lawford Mead Junior School.
When a friend and parent at the same school was recently diagnosed with leukaemia, she wanted to do something to help.
"She's currently undergoing treatment and I wanted to do something to show my support," said Fay.
As a result, she decided that she would have her head shaved to raise money for the Barts Cancer Centre in London, where the parent, who does not wish to be named, is currently receiving treatment.
Children, parents, friends and family came along to the primary school in Trent Road to support Fay last Friday as her friend Kelly Corin, who is not a hairdresser, started work on the new hairdo.
Fay's mum, Margaret Fleming, said: "I'm nervous for her but she's doing the right thing. This is what she's like – she's always done things like this. She always wants to help people."
Meanwhile Lola, 8, Jaylah, 7, and Maddison, 15 months, all watched in delight as their mum's locks fell to the floor.
"You're not coming into class like that mummy, no way!" shouted Jaylah, as her mum's head was sheared.
But after sitting in the red plastic chair for more than half an hour, all of Faye's shoulder-length hair lay on the floor of the school hall.
"I'm feeling proud of myself that I have gone through with it," said an uncertain Fay as she stroked her bald scalp. "I think my friend will be proud too."
Equipped with a woolly hat, she ventured outside to have a peek at her new look. "It's blooming cold out there," she said.
And while many schools were raising money for Children in Need last Friday, Lawford Mead Junior School held a non-uniform day, where all funds raised also went to the Barts Cancer Centre.
Head teacher Dawn Baker said: "Fay came to us to ask if we would support her and of course we were happy to.
"I can't say we've ever had anything done like this before, but it is great to see so many people showing their support."
Fay has raised £700 so far for the Barts Cancer Centre.
To add to her cause, contact Fay at faystuart@hotmail.co.uk
