A selfless Maryport youngster is set to chop off her long locks to help those in need.

Isabella Andrews, 11, will start her first day at secondary school without eight inches of her beautiful, blonde tresses after having them cut off in aid of the Little Princess Trust.

The youngster heard about the charity, which makes wigs for young people up to 24 years of age who have lost their own hair through illness, mainly cancer, and it struck a chord with her.

Mum, Claire, said: “Isabella’s hair is down to her waist when it is straightened out. The last time it was on her shoulders – which it will be – she was about three. She never wants to cut it.”

Isabella, who has just finished Maryport Junior School, where she was also a member of the successful Rock Challenge team, said she heard about the Little Princess Trust at school.

“I don’t know anybody who needs a wig but I came home and Googled it,” she explained.

“I just thought I should use my hair to help someone else, so I am getting eight inches cut off.

“I am nervous about getting it cut. I like my long hair but I am going to do it to help someone else.”

Her mother admits she was surprised at Isabella’s decision but also very proud of the youngster, who is also using the haircut as a fundraiser for the charity.

“She loves having long hair,” added Claire. “We have supported her, though.

“At first we just asked friends and family to sponsor her but then I decided to put something on social media and there has been a great reaction.

“One woman who donated said her daughter had needed a wig.

“I think it helped Isabella realise that she really would be helping others.”

Isabella has already raised £275 from an online fundraising page and another £45 from sponsorship forms.

She said her family is proud that Isabella has been so brave in doing something which affects her personally in what is her first fundraising effort. “It is a sacrifice,” she added.

The great chop takes place on Wednesday at Emmerson Ross Hair and Beauty in Workington.

Sponsor forms will be available from the salon or donations can be made online through Claire Andrews’ Facebook page.