A SCHOOLGIRL from Barry has decided to defy her parents and get her 26” locks chopped for charity.

Ten-year-old Poppy Williams, whose mum and dad Rachael and Ceri Williams own Marshalls Butchers, in Holton Road, will have her hair cut and donated to the Little Princess Trust – the charity that makes real hair wigs for children and young people under the age of 24, who have lost their hair through cancer treatment or other conditions.

The Romilly Primary school, Barry, pupil was inspired to also raise money for the Velindre Cancer Centre after family friend Laura Ryan underwent treatment there.

Mum, Rachael said: “She was ready for a new look and decided that rather than just cut her hair, she would go a bit further and donate it to this amazing charity.

“I tried to talk her out of it as her hair is so lovely but she was determined!

“Myself and Ceri are very proud of her.

“I felt that such a great gesture was worth raising some sponsorship for so we created a JustGiving page.

“A few of my friends have recently gone through treatment for cancer so we asked one of my best friends - Laura Ryan - to nominate a charity.

“She chose Velindre Cancer Centre as the support they gave her during and after treatment was fantastic.”

Ms Ryan said: “I was speechless when Poppy’s mum got in touch to tell me about the big cut and ask my preferred cancer charity.

Anyone who’s had any kind of connection with Velindre Cancer Centre hospital knows what a special team they are, more a community than a hospital.

“People have been so kind already, go Poppy!”

The haircut will take place in Allen Sadler's in Penarth, on Thursday, August 29.

Salon owner, Kirsty Bousie is a close friend of Mrs Williams and her daughter, Amelia, is a friend of Poppy's.

People can donate online at Poppy's JustGiving page, or in person at Marshalls Butchers.

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/poppys-hair-donation