A DETERMINED youngster has taken the chop to help children with cancer.

Nicole Kelly, aged 13, from Formby Avenue in Atherton, had her hair cut for the The Little Princess Trust which gives real-hair wigs to children who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment and other illnesses.

The year eight Fred Longworth student had her long locks chopped into a bob in front of students at her former Primary School Chowbent, on Friday.

Nicole decided to take the chop after reading a magazine article about a little girl who had lost her hair and after her auntie was diagnosed with cancer.

Ahead of her dramatic hair cut, Nicole has been rallying round to raise money in sponsors and has now raised around £500 for charity.

Nicole Kelly said: "It went brilliant it was very pleasing for me.

"I had a smile on my face for a very long time.

"Looking at the plait of my hair just made me realise how long my hair actually was.

"I love my new hair it reminds me every day of something so good that I have done.

"I was a bit nervous standing up in front of all the school, I had a bit of a nervous laugh but I definitely want to do more for charity now.

"I feel very happy about how much I have raised and all my friend think it suits me.

"I have decided that I am going to grow my hair again and then have it cut again for cancer."

Mum Jo said: "Me and her dad are really really proud of her.

"For a 13 year old girl they are all in to their hair and makeup so to cut her hair so short after being long for charity we are really proud.

"The headteacher did a lovely service as well to explain to the children about cancer and why Nicole was cutting her hair off- I had to go and get a tissue at that point, it was very emotional.

"Her hair really suits her, so there's two good things to come out of it."