The Nolans support school girl's first hair cut to make wigs for cancer charity

But that’s exactly what happened to 11-year-old Angel Shackleton, from South Shore, who decided to have her beautiful locks chopped for charity.

The Armfield Academy pupil donated four bunches of 19-inch long hair to the Little Princess Trust, a charity that makes wigs for children with cancer.

And Maureen, Denise and Linda Nolan were there on the big day to support her.

Angel, who was a pupil at Thames Primary before starting high school this month, said: “I watched a programme about the Nolans and I got inspired to donate it to a cancer charity.”

Angel, who is also raising money for the Little Princess Trust to make children’s wigs, had her hair cut at Andrew Williams Hair and Beauty on Lytham Road last month, while her parents

Julie and Spencer proudly watched on.

Spencer said: “Angel decided in February that she wanted her hair cut, and she asked where she could donate her hair to a charity that makes wigs for people who lose their hair.

“When lockdown was lifting and hairdressers were allowed to re-open we started the ball rolling again,

“We wanted to raise awareness for the charity and hopefully inspire others to donate their hair.

“Losing your hair - especially for children - can affect your self esteem and confidence.

“Having a wig from the Little Princess Trust will hopefully give a child the confidence when going about their daily routine whilst undergoing treatment.

“I contacted Denise Nolan initially and explained what we were trying to do and why, and she said yes instantly.

“On the day, Maureen, Denise and Linda arrived - it was really special that they came to support Angel.”

Angel’s kind act was a touching moment for The Nolans, whose family has been personally affected by cancer.

Linda and her sister Anne were diagnosed with cancer within days of each other during lockdown this year – and both sisters have lost their hair through their treatment.

Linda, 61, has been undergoing treatment for liver cancer, while Anne, 69, who was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer, finished her chemotherapy treatment at Blackpool Victoria

Hospital at the end of last month.

Their sister, Bernie, died of breast cancer in 2013 at the age of 52.

On the day of the hair cut, Denise Nolan said: “Angel has absolutely beautiful hair so it’s a big thing for her to do.”

Spencer added: “They were really engaging with Angel and they watched as Angel’s hair was cut, then they stayed and chatted with all of us.

“Angel donated four bunches of 19 inch long hair, the perfect lengths required by the trust to make their most popular wigs.

“Andrew, the stylist, gave Angel the full salon experience which Angel enjoyed immensely.

“He waived his fee for the afternoon, so we have donated that to the charity as well.

“Angel was also surprised a week later when MP for Blackpool South Scott Benton sent Angel a ‘Hero of Blackpool’ certificate for her selfless act of donating her hair, which she was

thrilled to receive.

Julie, Angel’s mum added: “We’re extremely proud of her.”

To donate to Angel’s fund-raising page, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/angel-shackleton