John Bradshaw, Associate Solicitor, Howes Percival LLP has had a hair-raising time raising funds for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH). In memory of his daughter Astrid Ella who passed away in January 2007 and, to celebrate the birth of his son, Francis Sione Alan in October 2008 the Norwich insolvency lawyer is sporting a Chilli Red Mohican hairstyle.

The Mohican haircut is courtesy of colour specialists Hooloovoo, Pottergate, Norwich who kindly agreed to support EACH by providing the styling and colouring free of charge.

The Mohican was the finale to 11 months of growing his hair and John’s exploits have raised over £8,000 for EACH – a charity close to his heart.

John and his wife, Roswyn, have personal reasons for supporting EACH. The couple’s daughter, Astrid was born in November 2006 with Edwards Syndrome, a chromosome disorder and sadly died in January 2007.

John commented, “Roswyn and I were very fortunate to receive help from EACH in caring for Astrid. Not only did they provide much needed respite care in our family home but they enabled Astrid to experience activities including music therapy and crafts. EACH provided an extraordinary level of support to the whole of our family during a very rewarding but stressful and difficult time. EACH has also continued to provide emotional and counselling support since Astrid's death.

“To celebrate Francis’ birth and in memory of Astrid, we wanted to raise funds for EACH to help them continue to provide their invaluable support to other families who find themselves in need of their help. So, when we found out that we were expecting Francis back in January, I decided to not to have my haircut until he was born. Roswyn came up with the idea for the Mohican – but I’m not quite sure what my clients will think of it!”

Hooloovoo manager Simi McGeorge said; “We have a very creative team at Hooloovoo and they love the opportunity to do something a bit different. So when John approached us, we jumped at the chance. It was a fun challenge for our stylist Sam Smithson who has only recently joined us, but I think he looks great. John has been such a good sport and the money he has raised is just amazing. We’re really pleased to have been able to support EACH in this way and we wish John all the very best with his fundraising.

More information about EACH can be found on their website; www.each.org.uk.