A BRAVE Ryedale woman who had her waist-length hair shaved off for charity at the weekend made sure her mum didn’t miss out by roping her in too.

Emma Richardson, of Spaunton, suffers from the debilitating illness Ehlers Danlos Hypermobility which means all her joints dislocate easily and she is in constant pain.

To prepare for a forthcoming operation – and raise money to help other sufferers – Emma decided to have her head shaved at her local pub, the Blacksmith’s Arms in Lastingham.

The 24-year old’s mum Margery said: “Several people had said they would double, and in one case treble, their original donations if I joined Emma – so I did.

“Emma made me go first but I actually found it worse to watch Emma’s hair come off and I shed a tear.”

Margery added that her husband Pete was working away and had missed the head shave – although she had emailed him a photograph to prepare him.

“It is quite cold at the moment but our hair will soon grow but I’m not sure how long Emma will grow hers again as it suits her short.”

She added that so far they had raised around £1,500 for The Hypermobility Syndrome Association and were hoping for more sponsorship once everyone saw they had both had their heads shaved.

“Both Emma and myself appreciate all the support we have received from everyone and would like to thank all those who have donated money and sponsored us, particularly Pete and Hils Trafford of the Blacksmith’s Arms,” Margery said.

Emma’s hair will now be donated to the organisation Locks for Love which makes wigs for children. Anyone who would still like to make a donation can do so at http:/uk.virginmoneygiving.com/emmalosingherlonghair or at the Blacksmith’s Arms, Lastingham.