It was a case of hair today, gone tomorrow for Somerset fundraiser Simon Cox after he shaved his head and beard for charity.

With hairdressers finally able to trade again following the easing of coronavirus restrictions, Simon seized the opportunity to raise some much-needed money for Teenage Cancer Trust.

The shave took place at Sweeney Todd Barbers in Midsomer Norton, overseen by owners Ross Morgan and Avril Croxson.

Family and friends have been quick to donate, with over £1000 raised so far. Colleagues at Dignity Funerals, where Simon works as head of insight, have also contributed, including the local team from B H Mears Funeral Directors on Midsomer Norton’s High Street.

Simon, who lives in Hallatrow, said: “Lots of people can relate to needing a haircut after several weeks in lockdown, so when it finally came to getting a trim I thought why not make it count and do something to help those going through a tougher time.

“Teenage Cancer Trust is a fantastic charity and needs all the help it can get right now because many of its traditional fundraising events, such as sponsored walks, runs and cycle rides, are on hold due to the pandemic.

“I could have done the shave earlier myself at home, but by waiting until hairdressers were reopened I was able to support a local independent business as well.”

Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to providing specialist nursing care and support to young people aged 13-24 who have cancer. It funds 28 treatment units, nurses, youth support teams and outreach work within the NHS.

Laura Mills, corporate account manager for Teenage Cancer Trust, said: “We continue to care for young people with cancer in the South West during the coronavirus crisis and it is thanks to the ongoing support of fundraisers like Simon that we’ll be able to do the same as we move beyond the pandemic.

“Teenage Cancer Trust needs to raise £480,000 this year to maintain our vital frontline services, including specialist units at Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre and Bristol Children’s Hospital.

“Simon’s contribution is really welcomed and we are very grateful to him for taking on this challenge.”