A mother and daughter from Loddon have braved the shave in aid of a cancer charity close to their hearts.

Eastern Daily Press: Dotty Matthews-Penell with her daughter Kayla Penell before the head shave.Dotty Matthews-Penell with her daughter Kayla Penell before the head shave. (Image: Archant)

Dotty Matthews-Penell, 43, along with her daughter Kayla Penell, 20, lost their locks in front of family and friends at Davy Place Community Room in Loddon on Tuesday to raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

Ms Matthews-Penell decided to take part in the fundraiser in memory of her mum Margaret, who died from liver cancer in March aged 71.

She said: 'I looked after her at home with my dad for a while, and eventually we managed to get Macmillan involved.

'The nurses would come in and see her everyday and eventually she got a place at Priscilla Bacon Lodge.

'Macmillan were brilliant and this is our way of thanking them.

'Cancer affects everyone at some point in their lives. I have had so many family members die from cancer and I thought it's time we did something to try to help.'

And the courage of Ms Matthews-Penell inspired her daughter to take part too.

The university photography student said: 'When mum said she was doing it I thought I've got to do it as well and support her.'

The duo are hoping to collect £300 in sponsorship each, and also raised funds on the day by selling tea and cakes and holding a raffle.

Ms Matthews-Penell said: 'It's an emotional day. Mum was the rock in our family. She kept us all linked together and now that link is slightly broken.

'I'm having to look after my dad and keep strong for everyone.'

The duo were clapped and cheered as they unveiled their new number two haircuts.

Miss Penell said: 'I feel really free without my hair. It feels really good.

'I'm so pleased we have done it together. I couldn't have done it without my mum.'

To sponsor them visit www.bravetheshave.org.uk/shavers/dorothy-matthews and www.bravetheshave.org.uk/shavers/kayla-pennell