A POOLE schoolgirl took the plunge on Saturday and had her head shaved in solidarity with her best friend who has been diagnosed with leukaemia.

Ashleigh Lambert, 10, has raised nearly £2,500 after pledging to shave off all her hair to support Chloe Fricker.

The money will go towards the Piam Brown ward at Southampton Hospital where Chloe is undergoing treatment.

And in honour of her friend, Ashleigh had “Chloe” shaved into her grade two ‘do’ to remind everyone why she was doing it.

Ashleigh’s mum Emma Stone said: “She’s amazing. She got a bit tearful at one point but she said she wasn’t crying in a bad way, it was just because she was emotional.

“Chris Etheridge from Chris’ Barber Shop, who did the shave, also gave us £450 so we’re near £2,500 now.

“I’m so proud of her – words cannot describe how proud I am of Ashleigh.

“When she told me what she wanted to do, at first I was reluctant but then I thought how selfish I was being and thought it was a big thing for her to ask.

“She was so excited, not at all nervous.”