A YOUNG girl made the decision to get 24 inches of her hair cut off to help children in need.

Ariya Kirk, aged six, from Great Totham, is now sporting a bob after donating her long hair to the Little Princess Trust.

The trust provides free wigs to children who have lost their hair to cancer or other medical conditions.

Ariya's family also set up a fundraiser which has raised more than £1,100 for the Little Princess Trust.

Maldon and Burnham Standard:

Mum Manjit said: “We are so proud of our awesome Ariya, who at age five was willing to donate her beautiful hair to benefit other children.

“Well, when she turned six over the summer holidays, it was time to make that happen.

“Ariya was willing to donate 24 inches of her hair to the Little Princess Trust.

“Ariya and I set up a fundraiser in aid of the charity to increase awareness and gain support for such a good cause, helping to put a smile on the faces of many children.

READ MORE>>> Nursery 'extremely proud' of outstanding Ofsted report

“Ariya was a little anxious because she loved her beautiful hair, and so it wasn't an easy task for her.

“However, upon the last cut, Ariya started 'head-banging', shaking her head around wildly, and laughing loudly.

“Perhaps slightly shocked, but she certainly felt a lot lighter.”

To donate to the cause, go to justgiving.com/fundraising/ariya-kirk.