A SWINDON barber is taking on a gruelling challenge in support of a charity that's helping his dad fight cancer.

Dominic French plans to cut hair for 12 hours without a break at The Brunel Shopping Centre to raise funds for Maggie’s Centre.

His father, Garry French, was told he had two years to live after being diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer in 2013.

It was recommended that he visit Maggie’s Centre in Oxford during his treatment.

The charity offers support and comfort for anyone going through cancer.

Dominic said: “Since then, I have always been looking for a way to try and repay Maggie’s Centre in some way, shape or form, for the help they gave my dad during this time.

“Then I had this idea. A whole day of haircuts, so 12 hours with no breaks and all the proceeds will go to the Maggie’s Centre.”

The 28-year-old who lives in Old Town has been cutting hair for seven years now. He originally started cutting ladies’ hair before specialising in men’s barbering three years ago.

He added: “Remembering the meaning behind this event will push me through any fatigue throughout the day.”

If Dominic is booked up back-to-back on the day, he said he should be able to complete 24 haircuts. He hopes to raise more than £500 for the charity.

He said: “This, combined with some cash donations that have already been made, I hope so surpass raising £500 for Maggie’s Centres.”

Garry is not in remission yet and is still battling cancer. He regularly visits the centre to receive support.

He said: “I will never ever forget the day I walked through the doors of the Maggie’s Centre for the first time, because it changed my life forever.

“All the emotion that I had held in was released. I was made so welcome and listened to by people that really understood how I felt inside.

“From that first day Maggie’s staff helped me to rebuild my life in-fact they gave me my life back.”

The 71-year-old added: “Above all it’s a place where you feel totally safe you can drop in for a cup of tea or coffee at any time, it’s a place where you meet other people who are going through or have been through the same treatment you are having and you can chat to them over a cup of coffee to help to put your mind at rest.”

The charity runs a wide range of classes to support those living with the disease. Garry was encouraged to attend various classes including nutrition, finance advice, stress relief, relaxation and more.

“I cannot speak highly enough of them and I would urge anyone who is diagnosed with cancer or is receiving cancer treatment to go to their nearest Maggie’s Centre.

"I promise you it will be the best decision you will ever make.”

The event will take place on Tuesday, September 3, from 8am to 8pm at Razor Sharp Barbers in The Brunel Shopping Centre.