Blakey goes bald for chemo appeal

THINGS are bound to feel a little airy around the ears for Andrew Blake.

The 34-year-old from Croyde had his long locks shaved off as part of a fundraiser on Sunday for a "lovely lady and a great cause."

He was inspired to raise funds for the new chemotherapy unit at North Devon District Hospital by the bravery of Journal columnist Rachel Turner who is fighting breast cancer.

Andrew, known as Blakey, said afterwards: "I don't look as weird as I thought I was going to. I look surprisingly handsome, like George Clooney with a big nose."

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It was all part of a day of fundraising, centred on The White Lion in Braunton, organised by Andrew and Rachel with help from Christian Wilkins and Katie and Sophie Kerslake.

There was a charity Bay Fitness Triathlon involving 18 teams of three who took part in cycling, swimming and running for the cause.

During the afternoon bands played in the beer garden at the White Lion. And in the evening there was Andrew's head shave, along with an auction and raffle.

Joining Andrew for the big snip was Michael Shilleto, 6, from Braunton. His mum Amy said: "He is really happy and really pleased he did it."

Nick Haynes took the plunge and had his hair shaved, too.

But a few drinks at the time meant that he was left wondering where his hair had gone the next day.

The 35-year-old from Croyde said: "I cannot really remember it happening. It was a bit of a shock in the morning."

But he insisted he had no regrets.

The whole day raised about £4,800 for the Chemotherapy Appeal.