A GROUP of six friends got together to become much smoother, in the name of charity.

The daring half-dozen decided to take part in a sponsored headshave at GlaxoSmithKline Social Club, in Barnard Castle, Teesdale, to raise cash for two local charities.

Gary Howe, who works in Barnard Castle, suffers from Hodgkins Disease, which is a form of cancer.

He wanted to do something to help others who were in a similar situation, but less fortunate than himself.

Gary got together with friends Malcolm Barwick, Stephen Hall, Dave Lacey, Michael Charlton and John Boufield, to go for the sponsored very close trim.

The money that they have raised will go to help the Mara cancer unit at West Auckland, and The Butterwick Children's Hospice.

When all of the sponsorship money has been collected, supporters will be hosting a charity evening at the social club, which is run by Michael's parents John and Julie.

Cheques will be presented to the two charities, and Gary and his friends hope that the final total raised will come to more than £3,500.