A TEENAGER from Billington had a close shave to raise funds for East Lancashire Hospice in memory of her grandad.

Hannah Croston, 16, has raised around £800 as a tribute to her grandfather, Tommy, after having her waist-length hair completely shaved off.

Tommy lost his battle with stomach cancer last year, aged 75.

Hannah’s locks were plaited before being chopped off, so that they could be sent to a charity which makes wigs for cancer sufferers.

She said: “I decided to have my head shaved on what would have been my grandad’s birthday.

“It is also the anniversary of my uncle’s death, so I think it was meant to be.

“I woke up at half past six in the morning thinking about it but now I’ve had it done I feel really good knowing I’ve been able to help the hospice.

“I’m proud of myself and hope my grandad would be proud of me too.”

Hospice fundraiser Kimberley Hall said: “Hannah seems to have taken this in her stride.

“It’s a brave move for someone who hasn’t had her hair cut properly for 10 years.

“She’ll be much cooler now in this heat, and of course we want to say a huge thank you to Hannah and everyone who has sponsored her.

“She’s done brilliantly and every penny makes a difference to our patients.”