This month, a year five pupil will shave his head for charity. Ben Rafter from Medstead C of E Primary School will lose his hair on Tuesday, July 23.

He has been growing his hair since he was four years old, it now reaches down to his chest and he has decided to donate it to Little Princess Trust. The Trust works to provide free wigs of real hair for children who have lost theirs to cancer treatments and other conditions.

Ben has also razored nearly £600 for Broadlands Equine Therapy in Alton and to the Friends of Medstead association. 

Ben’s mum Sharon said: “He is really really pleased that he's managed to go so high above that.”

Ben is raising money for Broadlands as the organisation supports his older sister
Ben is raising money for Broadlands as the organisation supports his older sister (Sharon Rafter)

The initial target of £200 was set so that it was more achievable for Ben, but he has cut through expectations and has nearly tripled his first target! 

Ben's older sister cut her hair for charity and he wanted to follow in her footsteps. According to his mum, he has wanted to do something for charity for a while and decided to ‘brave the shave’.

Broadlands does work every week with 56 riders who have physical and learning disabilities. According to The Riding for the Disabled Association, horse riding has positive benefits, with 77 per cent of people saying their confidence improved. 

Ben’s older sister is supported at the group, so the charity has particular meaning for him. You can donate online at https://www.justgiving.com/page/ben-rafter-1714921686858

By Maisy Tindle