A 10-year-old girl had more than 30cm of her hair cut off to support children who are facing the daunting prospect of cancer treatment.

Lowestoft Journal: Emma Ritchie pictured before her brave charity deed.Emma Ritchie pictured before her brave charity deed. (Image: Archant)

At the end of last year, Emma Ritchie's aunt was diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

The youngster then decided that she wanted to do something to raise money for Cancer Research to try and find a cure.

Despite growing her hair for the past five years, she decided to have some of it cut off to raise some all important funds and awareness.

Emma, of Carlton Colville, raised over £800 and her hair will now be donated to the Little Princess Trust – which provides wigs and hair pieces for children who suffer hair loss due to cancer treatment.

'Leading up to the event she was very excited but apprehensive as to how she would like her short hair – but not once did she ever think about not going through with it,' said her mother Mary Ritchie.

'She also organised a fundraising barbecue with our family and friends to be present when she had her hair cut – which was attended by over 40 people and thoroughly enjoyed by all.

'Emma is such a thoughtful kind ten-year-old who always puts others before herself and is already talking about how to raise further funds for this amazing charity.'

The Carlton Colville Primary School pupil also approached a number of businesses across the area who donated prizes for a raffle held at the family home – which raised an extra £220.

Her hair was cut by Laura Klyne at Hair by Lawrence and over 30cm was donated to Little Princess Trust.

'She would like to personally thank everybody who has donated and is overwhelmed with the amount of money she has raised,' her mother added.

To pledge your support, visit www.justgiving.com/Mary-Ritchie1