Classmates cheered as a nine-year-old girl had her head shaved to raise money in memory of a much-loved family friend who took her own life.
Erin Power had her ten-inch brown locks snipped off and a hairdresser used clippers to give her a crew cut in front of fellow pupils at Woodham Burn Primary School in Newton Aycliffe.
The kind-hearted youngster is has raised over £2,000 to create a trust fund for 14-year-old Ellie following the death her mother Laura Evans.
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The 38-year-old took her own life in July and same of the money will be used to create a memorial bench the rest will be donated to the mental health charity Mind.
Erin’s hair will be donated to The Little Princess Trust, which makes wigs for children undergoing treatment that makes their own hair fall out.
Erin and Ellie, who is now being looked after by her auntie, know each other because their mothers were friends in Watford before she moved to the North East seven years ago.
Erin’s mum, Krissie Newton, 36, who lives with her partner, Mark Wood, said: “It went better than we could have imagined. The turnout was huge.
“So many people came to support Erin, at least 50 people. I am of course ever so proud of her.
“Erin is doing absolutely fine and rocking her new looks. What an amazing child.”
Ms Newton has thanked local businesses for generously donating raffle and tombola prizes.
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She added: “I am also super proud of her school and our community. What fabulous teachers, staff, parents and children.
“I was so overwhelmed with their kindness.”
The headshave was filmed in Erin's classroom by Northern Echo photographer Sarah Caldecott who broadcast it live on Facebook, see below.
Erin’s fundraising page is being kept open until the end of October.
Erin, who has two older siblings, Wybie, 14, and Rain, 12, said: “Laura was so kind and thoughtful to all she met, and would always put others before herself, including her beautiful 14-year-old daughter."
Erin said: “I decided some time ago that I wanted to raise some money.
“My target is to raise as much as I possibly can. I understand that people don’t have a lot of money at the moment, but anything you can give would be really appreciated.”
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If you are in need of support you can contact the following:
- Samaritans is available, day or night, 365 days of the year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
- If U Care Share on 0191 387 5661 or text IUCS to 85258 - SANE on 07984 967 708, Calm on 0800 58 58 58
- Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust crisis line 0800 0516 171
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