A WORCESTER barman whose mother died from breast cancer and whose stepmother has been diagnosed with the disease is to shave off his hair to raise money for a charity that conducts research into a cure.

Gordon Bartlett, of The Tything, wants to raise hundreds of pounds for Breast Cancer Campaign by chopping off his locks, which he has been growing for the past seven years.

The 24-year-old, who works at the Dragon Inn on The Tything, said: "I lost my mum, Barbara Eve Bartlett, to breast cancer when I was eight and my stepmum, Jane, was diagnosed

in October."

He said it was the regulars at the pub who suggested that he should shave his head.

"They just want to see my hair go. Even before I considered doing it there was £160 on the table. I'm now up to about £400.

"I'm also holding a bit of an auction for a person to have the first go with the clippers. That should raise extra money."

His stepmum Jane, aged 52, of Baughton, near Upton-upon-Severn, said she was very proud of Gordon.

"When he told us we thought 'Oh my goodness'. It was quite a surprise. Especially as he went and had it braided.

"He is raising a lot of money and there are a lot of people supporting him."

Gordon will say goodbye to his beloved hair on Tuesday, February 28.

People can donate by popping into the pub where there is a collection box at the bar.

Breast Cancer Campaign aims to fund studies aimed at improving diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.