Gavin braves the shave for Macmillan

The 37-year-old from Preston, who had grown his hair for two years braved the shave, in support of his niece Pippa Cole, who has beaten terminal cancer.

Four-year-old Pippa, from Garstang, was diagnosed with terminal brain, spine and spinal fluid cancer and has been fighting the disease since she was just 18-months-old.

She along with mum Michelle and a number of family and friends turned out to Sovereign Jewellers in Friargate, where Gavin pitched up for the charity cut.

Gavin raised a total of £1,293.

His wife Kirsty, who had styled his hair in multiple plaits for the occasion in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support, said: “The weather was just horrendous but Gavin was overwhelmed by the people who came out to support him and shoppers who stopped by and offered donations.

“It was important not only to raise the money but also to raise awareness of what Macmillan do, not only supporting people with cancer but their care of families and those affected too.

“He was quite shocked with the amount he has raised but so grateful to everyone for their sponsors

“Pippa told him he looked silly now without his hair but she called him crazy when he had it so long, so I don’t know which he prefers!”

Kirsty said Gavin’s plaits have been bagged up and will be sent to the Little Princess Trust charity.

It was last month doctors told the family Pippa was cancer-free.

Gavin, overwhelmed by health staff and the support of Macmillan nurses said he wanted to help raise awareness and funds ‘to give something back.’

He said: “The work that Macmillan nurses have done to support my family and friends is second to none, they are so supportive and helpful.

“Without the support of this great charity lots of people would be struggling even more than they need to.”

To help support the Macmillan cause visit bravetheshave.org.uk and search Gavin Howard. Donation buckets are also in place at Sovereign Jewellers.