A MAN with dreadlocks reaching down to his knees had a haircut for the first time in 16 years in aid of an animal charity.

Dan Saunders, 32, who lives in Stroud, had his locks chopped off in Nailsworth last week to raise money for the Dean Farm Trust.

The charity has an animal sanctuary where rescued animals, including Shetland ponies, Exmoor ponies, donkeys, pigs, sheep and ex-battery hens, are given a home for life.

Dean and his wife Jess became interested in the charity after hearing its founder Mary Frankland give a talk at a vegan fair.

"We got to hear Mary talk about everything the trust does, and we've been following what they do ever since," he said.

Before the chop Dan commented: "I've been growing my hair for about half my life, and I have no idea what I look like with short hair, so it's a leap into the unknown – be kind to me if I look weird afterwards!"

He headed to Candy's in Nailsworth last Thursday, where salon owner Amy Bowden severed Dan's prized locks - which she said were 'surprisingly heavy' - and dyed his remaining hair pink.

Now the deed is done, Dan said he feels much lighter and is enjoying his new style.

He has set up a Just Giving Page called 'Dan's dreadlock disseverment'. To make a donation visit:

bit.ly/2YNsyUU

Dan has already surpassed his original £400 target, with supporters donating £480 so far.