Zany haircuts raise cash for Marie Curie and Halstead Swimming Club

Paul Salmon, 48, from Colne Engaine, was able to raise a total of £471 for good causes after holding his event to sacrifice his locks for a good cause.

Paul, who works in Colchester, raised the funds for Marie Curie and Halstead Swimming Club, where he also works as one of the coaches.

Taking place at the Halstead Leisure Centre, the event saw Paul, who hadn’t had a hair cut in months, have his hair cut in to a number of whacky styles before being ultimately shaved off.

Paul took inspiration for the styles from fun drawings of him submitted by young members of the swim club.

The swimming club’s Roy Bird even attended the event dressed as the club’s seven foot tall penguin mascot.

Of the funds raised, £171 is being donated to the swimming club while the remaining £300 is going to the Marie Curie cancer charity.

Paul is no stranger to charity fundraising and even swam the English Channel back in 2011 as part of a relay team.

“It went really very well, far better than I first thought,” he said.

“The swimmers and parents and guardians really got into the spirit of the event.

“Every donation, small and large helps others. I’m really pleased.

“For sure, in addition to the money raised, children and adults were enjoying the hype and commotion.

“I really liked the mohican, this may well become my favoured style at retirement. But I do miss straightening my long thin hair.

“Everyone, and I do mean everyone, has got behind it, donating the venue, time, support, raising much-needed funds.

“They found the haircuts fun and even offered some more daring cuts. Next time maybe.

“I enjoy giving back to others and the community.

“I also hope that it may inspire others to do the same or offer their time and support doing a different challenge.

“There’s always more to give, and come.”

Funds were mainly raised for Marie Curie through Paul’s justgiving page which you can visit at justgiving.com/fundraising/givemumherstraightenersback.