A Workington girl has raised more than £1,500 in two weeks by cutting off her hair for charity.

Aeryn Crawford, 12, of Harrington Road, had 12-inch of her ginger hair cut off for the Little Princess Trust, which provides real hair wigs for children who lose theirs through cancer treatment.

The youngster, who is autistic, also managed to raise cash for Cancer Research and I CAAN West Cumbria - Independent Community Autism Activity Network.

Mum Angela, 46, said: "Aeryn came up with this idea out of the blue. She's always been really protective over her hair and her deciding to cut it was a surprise.

"Aeryn is autistic and that's why it's such a big deal for her. I suggested she also raised money for charity and she picked Cancer Research and I CAAN because she knew it is local. I've also been to one of their meetings.

"She's really caring and compassionate so it wasn't a shock that she decided to do it for charity. There's still money coming in, friends and family are still donating."

Aeryn, who is a pupil at St Joseph's school, has four siblings aged between 26 and 10.

Her two older sisters, who are now in New Zealand, have been sharing her story overseas.

Angela said: "They've been sending her really supportive messages, they're really proud of her. Aeryn loves her new hair, she keeps brushing it. She's really proud of herself and she suggested doing it again when her hair grows."

Angela added that Aeryn's school and Ashfield Infant School, where Angela works, have also been very supportive and donated to the causes.

To sponsor Aeryn visit www.gofundme.com/51igeuw