A YOUNGSTER from East Tilbury who was inspired by the death of a footballing friend's father is raising money for the Brain Tumour charity and plans to have his long locks cut off to help other children.

Ellis Gore, 10, is a pupil at East Tilbury Primary and has been growing his hair throughout the covid pandemic. Now, on 29 May at a venue to be decided, he will be having it cut with the long locks donated to the Little Princess Trust.

In addition he is hoping to be sponsord by local people, with all cash raised going to the charity.

Proud mum Victoria says:" Ellis has been growing his hair since covid first hit us.

A lad from my older boy's team sadly lost his dad last year to a brain tumour. Ellis has decided to raise money for brain tumour research by cutting off his lovely goldilocks.

"His words were 'I could keep someone alive and my hair can grow back' and he will also be donating his hair to the Princess Trust.

"If you would like to donate big or small it will be very much appreciated."

Donations can be made via this fundraising page link.