A Preston schoolgirl has raised hundreds of pounds for cancer research – by having her head shaved.

The Archbishop Temple School pupil had the clippers run through her hazel locks.

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Initially Rosie Lenehan had hoped to raise £100 for Macmillan Cancer Support but this total quickly rose.

Her brave effort was covered by Blog Preston and other media – spreading the admiration for what Rosie was doing.

The Fulwood pupil found she was up to more than £800.

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She said: “I’m incredibly pleased that I raised so much money for such a worthwhile charity.

“I know it was the right thing to do. Thank-you to everyone who donated, you will make a difference to so many people’s lives.”

She had her hair cut off at school with other pupils watching.

Head of Religious Education at the school Mrs F Ashton said: “Rosie’s achievement is absolutely wonderful.

“She decided upon this fundraising initiative all by herself and she has been tireless in the way that she has worked to encourage support for the Macmillan cause.

“Initially, Rosie was prepared to ‘Brave the Shave’ in order to raise the modest amount of £100. That she has raised so much more is a testimony to the way that she has inspired everyone. We are very proud of Rosie and full of admiration for her achievement.”

Rosie’s head shave has also drawn admiration from the Preston and South Ribble cancer support fundraising committee.

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Tony Bonser from the group said: “Many, many congratulations and our most sincere thanks to Rosie from the Preston and South Ribble Macmillan Cancer Support Fundraising Committee.

“She has raised a fantastic amount of money through this wonderful effort. It is a great challenge for anyone to have their head shaved and we thought she might like to know what could be done with the money.

“It would pay for a Macmillan Nurse for a day (£203) AND set up a self-help and support group with their website, (£250) AND could pay for a Macmillan support or social worker for a day (£181) AND pay for a Macmillan grant to cover hospital travel costs (£150) AND have some left over! Life with cancer is still life. This money will help people to live it.”

Donations can still be made for Rosie’s head shaving via the Brave The Shave website.