A woman is set to shave her head in a show of solidarity and support for the counsellor who changed her life.

Jane Hyatt of Oulton Broad will 'Brave the Shave' for Macmillan Cancer Support on Friday, September 1, inspired by her counsellor's battle with cancer.

She said: 'I wouldn't be where I am today without my counsellor Sarah Barnett. I think in a totally different way now – my mind has been rewired.

'She is a wonderful lady, an angel. Sarah is a true inspiration to me and many other people.'

Whilst serving as a police officer in Essex for 24 years, Mrs Hyatt began to suffer from alcoholism as a way to alleviate stress caused by her work and mounting debts.

The pressure culminated in a breakdown for which she was referred to Synergy Therapy Centre, Essex.

Here she met Miss Barnett, who aided her rehabilitation and prompted a new outlook on life.

Now four years sober, the 50-year-old attributes her more basic and simple lifestyle to the counsellor.

A year ago she moved to a 'slower paced and better quality life' in Oulton Broad and is currently pursuing her qualifications to become a counsellor after being inspired by Miss Barnett's impact.

The head shave idea stems from a group therapy session Mrs Hyatt attended when her counsellor began receiving chemotherapy.

Mrs Hyatt said: 'Sarah asked us if it was OK for her to take off her wig because she was more comfortable like that.

'It hit my soul that she felt she had to ask.

'When she took it off all I thought was how beautiful she looked and I wanted to tell her she doesn't have to wear a wig.'

Although she has already surpassed her £500 target and at the time of writing has raised £1,400, Mrs Hyatt is determined to raise as much as possible for Macmillan.

She said: 'Everybody knows somebody who has died of cancer or been affected by cancer.

'I want the head shave to highlight Macmillan, they do a fantastic job for people suffering from cancer and their relatives.'

If you would like to donate, visit bravetheshave.macmillan.org.uk/shavers/jane-hyatt.