A COMPUTER programmer from a Worcester firm had his head shaved for charity.

Andy Fenwick, who works at IT firm Open GI, braved the razor to raise money for Acorns Children's Hospice in Bath Road.

Acorns is Open GI's staff- nominated charity for 2007.

Mr Fenwick, aged 52, of Claines, Worcester, had his head shaved after being persuaded by colleagues.

He had been growing his hair and beard for about 35 years.

The event, which took place infront of more than 300 staff, raised more than £400 for the hospice.

It is one of a number of events being organised by the company as part of a pledge to raise at least £3,500 by the end of the year. If the target is reached, the company will match that figure.

Mr Fenwick said: "My colleagues kept suggesting I needed a hair cut so I thought why not raise money for Acorns at the same time?

"It's a great local charity and need our support. I'm pleased with my new look, but I'm not too keen on getting sunburnt this summer!"

A team of 20 staff from Open GI, including company chief executive Phillip Bell, will also be putting their abseiling skills to the test for Acorns this Sunday as they make their descent down 150ft of the north west tower of Eastnor Castle, near Ledbury.

Places are filling up fast for the abseil, so anyone wanting to take up the challenge should call the Acorns fund-raising office on 01386 554848. Alternatively, e-mail sophie.james@acorns.org. uk for more information and an application pack.