A KIND-HEARTED schoolgirl has had her Rapunzel-like locks lopped off in a charity haircut to provide wigs for children suffering from cancer.

Brave Eleanor Donkers, from Broughton, marked her 10th birthday last Tuesday by having 13 inches of her beautiful golden hair cut.

And she netted a hair-raising £988 in sponsorship for the Little Princes Trust.

The Halyrude Primary School pupil was inspired by her mum Maude to donate her hair to the charity which relies solely on the efforts of community fundraisers.

Eleanor told us: “I was really keen to do this because I’ve always thought long hair is a pain and it took me too long style in the mornings.

“I spoke to my mum about it and looked at some hairstyles and decided which one I wanted, then went to my hairdresser to discuss it.”

Eleanor decided to go for a drastic new look. She beamed: “I wanted to give as much hair as possible as it is such a good cause. My hair was separated into bunches and I let my mum cut the first one. The hairdresser did the second one and my dad did the third one, which didn’t go to plan, so we had to get the hairdresser to help.”

Eleanor was given a ‘chin grazing bob’, but decided to get even more cut off.

She said: “It was quite scary because the hairdresser brought out the clippers. I wasn’t too sure when I first saw it, but once it was styled I really liked it.”

Despite last-minute nerves on the day, this kind-spirited girl is very glad she took the plunge: “I feel really proud of myself because I’ve helped children who have lost their hair and this will make them feel good about themselves.”

Although she loves her new style, Eleanor says she is looking forward to better weather as her neck is now a bit chilly.

And she has a message for anyone considering going for the chop.

“If you have long hair and you want to get your hair cut shorter, do it for the Princes Trust. It is so worthwhile, and it is nice to know that you will make someone ill smile.”

The family extended their thanks to all who generously sponsored Eleanor and to Hair by Studio One in Peebles.