A STAVERTON man is being sponsored to shave off his hair in tribute to his wife’s cancer battle.

Jeremy Russon, 43, will be joined by eight friends for short cuts in the Big Shave – raising money for Royal United Hospital Bath’s Forever Friends Appeal – at the Old Bear Inn, Staverton, between 1pm and 5pm tomorrow.

His wife, Debbie, 42, was diagnosed with cancer in September last year and has had two operations and is still receiving treatment at the hospital.

Mr Russon said: “It is taking place in the function room at the pub and we’d invite anyone who has maybe been affected by cancer to come down and support the event.”

So far, the team has received more than £800 in donations and Mr Russon hopes to top £1,500 in total.

The Russons have two daughters, Millie, 11, and eight-year-old Maisie.

Mr Russon said: “This has had a big effect on them, but they are coping well and the support they’ve had from their friends has been really important to them.

“Debbie has had a good week, so, all being well, she should be coming down and is planning on doing the first trim on me.”

To donate to the event, visit www.justgiving.com/ TheBigShaveatTheBear.