Close shave for volunteer Phil

Phil Geering, a volunteer at Morley Exotic Animal Rescue, had spent months cultivating a mane of curly hair in anticipation for the sponsored head shave.

And when the time came to face the chop, he had passers-by at a Leeds shopping centre gathering round to watch.

Phil, 57, from Ravensthorpe, said: “Sophie, who cut my hair, enjoyed it a bit too much. It was coming off in tufts.

“It was pretty scary at the end when it was all gone and there was plenty of ribbing from everyone that day. I didn’t look in the mirror until the day after. Now it’s just got to grow back before my wedding in June!”

The shaving stunt has raised more than £400 so far to help complete new shelters at the centre in Gildersome.

To make a donation, send cheques payable to Morley Exotic Animal Rescue to Phil Geering, 24 Myrtle Road, Ravensthorpe, WF13 3AP.