A KIND-hearted youngster has braved the shave to raise more than £400 for Macmillan Cancer Support in a quest to help others during lockdown.

William Picken had his dark locks shaved off on Saturday (May 2) as part of the national Brave the Shave fundraising appeal.

The 11-year-old smashed his £150 fundraising target by raising £495, which will be donated to the charity to help continue its vital work helping people living with cancer.

William's mum Jane said the shave was entirely the youngster's own idea, as he wanted to do something to help others during his free time.

She said: "His cousin did it so he started asking me questions about it. It was completely his idea, he said 'Mummy, I just want to help people'.

"I told him how Macmillan help people so he went for it."

Jane shaved her son's hair at their home in Rushock, with before and after photos showing William's dramatic transformation.

Jane added: "He was an absolute star. It went well, it was a bit scary but once I got started I was surprised how easy it was.

"I am so proud of him."

His fundraising page is still open for donations at bravetheshave.macmillan.org.uk/shavers/william-picken.

William's school, West Acre Middle School in Droitwich, has also paid tribute to William's efforts, with staff describing him as an "absolute credit" to the school.