HAIR today, gone tomorrow – that was how Halesowen man Ben Slater raised more than a thousand pounds for a Stourbridge charity last week.

Mr Slater had his long locks and beard shaved to drum up funds for Mary Stevens Hospice, a cause close to his heart.

The hospice cared for both his grandmother and cousin before they died, while Ben’s father also works there as a nurse.

The 34-year-old construction worker’s efforts have so far raised £1,070 for the hospice, a sum he described as ‘amazing.

He added: “I will be keeping my Just Giving Page up and running until the end of this month, so will hopefully be raising even more.”

Ben’s parents did the honours for the shave itself – and he admitted his new look was taking a bit of getting used to.

He added: “It was very strange at first, after always having long hair and a beard for many years, but I am starting to get used to it.

“I am just so proud and honoured to do it for such a great cause.

“My friends and family can’t believe I have done it, and think the new style suits me.

“Some people don’t like it as much coz they loved me having the hippy look.

“But everyone is so proud at what I’ve done and the amount I have raised already!”

To donate to the cause, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ben-slater7