A BUDDING medical student from Mere has donated more than 12 inches of hair to make wigs for children with cancer.

19-year-old Ellie Stonehouse, from Mereside Road, decided to have the daring haircut in aid of the Little Princess Trust, who donate wigs to boys and girls who lose their hair through illness.

Ellie, who studied at Withington Girls School, courageously took up the challenge just weeks before beginning a medical degree at Cambridge University’s Jesus College, where she also intends to study paediatrics.

She said: “My hair was really long, it was almost getting in the way. I saw something, I think it was a leaflet that came through the door about the Little Princess Trust, and I just thought that it was a really good idea, so I did it.

“I didn’t think it would suit me short, but actually it’s ok. It has made me want to grow it back and then do it again.”

 “I am considering paediatrics. I am really open-minded about what I am going to be studying but it is something that I am definitely interested in.

“I chose the charity because they make really nice wigs for the children, especially for little girls.”

Ellie went for the chop at Capelli Salon at Canute Place in Knutsford where the hairdressers learnt of her donation and gave her the haircut for free.

“I think it is important to get involved because I believe it can make a huge difference to children’s lives,” she said.

“Having cancer can make children feel different and sometimes isolated so a small gesture such as providing a wig can make them feel normal and they can enjoy their childhood through a difficult time.”

Ellie travelled to Cambridge on Saturday October 3 to begin the first year of university and the start of her medical career.

The Little Princess Trust takes both hair and monetary donations.

For more information or to donate, visit littleprincesses.org.uk