A fundraiser braved the shave to help raise money for patients battling cancer.

Julie Standen, of Coggeshall, had her hair cut and her head shaved to raise money for the Colchester Hospital Cancer Centre Campaign.

Mrs Standen was inspired by the Coggeshall fundraising group which has hit its £20,000 target for the cancer centre.

The event took place at Coggeshall’s Chapel Inn and saw Mrs Standen have her head shaved by broadcaster Sally Bundock.

Ms Bundock, who presents BBC World Business report, got involved after her husband, Paul, died of liver cancer last year.

In total £200 was raised.

The money will go to the Cancer Centre Campaign, backed by the Times’ sister paper the Daily Gazette, which aims to raise £3.25 million to pay for a new centre for chemotherapy and haematology next to the radiotherapy unit at Colchester General Hospital.

It will also feature support and holistic services.

Mrs Standen said: “At the meeting we were discussing ways of increasing awareness of the money being raised and I said I’d shave my hair off.

“It is very much a community effort though, some have donated a day’s earnings and there have been various walks and runs. We are lucky to live in such a supportive community.

“I’m lucky enough to have the choice that those facing the prospect of chemo don’t have.”

The next Coggeshall-based fundraising event is a family challenge evening on Saturday April 7, where a variety of activities are taking place including a quiz.

Details on how to donate can be found at www.justgiving.com/fund raising/coggeshallbeatingcancer.

To support the Cancer Centre Campaign, text GAZE11 £10 to 70070 or chose a different amount.