A BARBER from Yate has been fundraising for a children's hospital by growing out his hair to help children with cancer.

Alex Cole's two-year-old daughter Violet had a tonsillectomy at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children in May.

Alex, who works at Kings Barbershop in Wotton, said he was “blown away” by how great the hospital had been and he wanted to help children who had to stay there.

His donated hair will be used to make wigs for children who have lost their hair during treatment. 

Alex, who has never had his hair this long, will have it cut by his friend Sean Rodman, who owns the barbershop, on Sunday, September 3.

His hair will then be shaved off by people who have donated to his fundraiser. 

So far, more than £1,800 has been raised by Alex for the Wallace & Gromit's Grand Appeal which supports Bristol Royal Hospital for Children.

Stroud News and Journal: Alex Cole with his two-year old daughter Violet who had an operation at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children in MayAlex Cole with his two-year old daughter Violet who had an operation at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children in May (Image: Alex Cole)

He said: “I’ve decided to cut off my hair and donate it to The Little Princess Trust so a child that is going through chemotherapy can hopefully gain some self confidence while they are going through something truly awful.

“My daughter, Violet, had an operation there in May, and I was blown away how great the place was and would love to be able to help pay something back. 

“It’s such a blessing to have the children’s hospital in Bristol. 

“Some children have spent most of their young lives there and what goes into keeping them safe is nothing short of amazing. 

“Sean will be cutting the length off. With donations I am raffling off the chance to shave my head. Who wouldn’t want to do that?

“I’m really not looking forward to the hair cut, but it’s all for a good cause!

You can view Alex’s JustGiving page here - tinyurl.com/vdchawer

Stroud News and Journal: Alex Cole has worked at Kings Barbershop for six years Alex Cole has worked at Kings Barbershop for six years  (Image: Alex Cole)

Stroud News and Journal: The haircut and shave is taking place where Alex works in Kings Barbershop, Wotton The haircut and shave is taking place where Alex works in Kings Barbershop, Wotton (Image: Alex Cole)

The Grand Appeal is the official charity of the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children. 

Donations support medical research, lifesaving equipment and play and music therapy. 

The charity also helps provide accommodation for families with hospitalised children.