Two schoolgirls are raising money for charity by having their heads shaved.

The Comet: Lillian Ross after having her head shavedLillian Ross after having her head shaved (Image: Archant)

Iona Kelso from Stevenage is cutting her hair today, Thursday, to raise money for Children of St Mary’s Intensive Care.

The 12-year-old – diagnosed with meningitis as a toddler – has so far raised just over £900 for the cause, which supports seriously ill children at St Mary’s Hospital in London.

Her father Gavin said: “She was perfectly healthy up until around 18 months. When doctors realised the severity of her situation they called in a team from St Mary’s Hospital. They worked with her for several hours before transferring her to the actual hospital in London.

“If it wasn’t for their facilities and the skills of their doctors and consultants she wouldn’t have made it. I’m so proud of her for taking on this challenge.”

The Comet: Iona Kelso with Stevenage MP Stephen McPartlandIona Kelso with Stevenage MP Stephen McPartland (Image: Archant)

Iona met with Stevenage MP Stephen McPartland as part of her fundraising effort.

He said: “It is a big commitment for Iona to make and is a fantastic example of someone wanting to give something back to those people who helped her so that they can help other children.”

Lillian Ross, who also lives in the town, has been doing her bit for charity too, raising approximately £500 for child cancer charity CLIC Sergeant.

The 16-year-old had her hair cut in a bus stop in Stevenage High Street on Saturday before donating her locks to The Princess Trust, which will be used to make wigs for children with cancer.

Lillian said: “A lot of people think I’m mad to do this but it’s what I wanted to do. I want to help people who lose their hair when they get cancer and I thought this was the best way that I could help.”

To make a donation to Iona’s cause, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/ionakelso

To support Lillian’s head shave, log on to www.justgiving.com/lilliansheadshave