A TEENAGER has gone from afro to no-fro to raise money for children and young adults living in hospices.

Jack Purkiss, 17, from Eastleigh, volunteered to have his afro barnet shaved off - after eight years of having the curly locks - and in return, was able to donate £600 to Naomi House & Jacksplace.

The charity provides respite, emergency and end-of-life care to life-limited children and young people across the central south of England - and funds raised by Jack will go towards the £9.2 million they need to raise to provide services to families for free.

Barton Peveril student Jack has supported the Hampshire charity for years through performing at charity events with his band and decided to brave the shave.

He said: “I’ve been growing my hair for the past seven to eight years and, over that time, it became one of the main things people associated me with.

“I figured having this feature that I’m somewhat known for could be used for something good, so I decided to shave it off for charity. In the past I’ve had the chance to see some of the work done by Naomi House & Jacksplace in person, and it’s something I’m really proud to be able to support and be a part of.”

He invited friends and family to the Blue Butterfly Studios in Eastleigh last Saturday to witness the "fro disappear".

The second year student tasked himself with raising £300, but has since raised almost double his target.

“I wasn’t sure at the start whether it would be successful, or if the goal would even be achievable, but we’ve raised double what was originally planned, which is awesome.

“Everyone has been incredibly nice and supportive, but none of it would have been possible without Abbie and the people at Blue Butterfly Beauty who organised the haircut,” added Jack.

Chris Meany, supporter services assistant at Naomi House & Jacksplace, said: “We feel honoured Jack chose to shave off his Afro of eight years for us. Sometimes, hair can complete a person’s identity and cutting it all off can be a daunting challenge. Everyone at Naomi House & Jacksplace wants to thank Jack for raising such an impressive amount and taking on a brilliant challenge.”

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jack-purkiss.