A THOUGHTFUL Greenock schoolgirl has made a hair-raising gesture for charity — by cutting off over 15 inches of her treasured locks.

Emma McDonald decided to donate her hair to the Little Princess Trust, a charity which provides wigs and hair pieces for children who suffer hair loss due to cancer treatment.

The big-hearted 12-year-old, of Killochend Drive, has also raised £600 for the charity.

Emma, who has just started first year at Notre Dame High School, said she was inspired by her big sister Beth, who also got her hair cut for the charity two years ago.

She said: “I wanted to do this to help other children.

“It does feel strange as I’ve never had it short before.”

Emma was cheered on by her proud parents Derek and Lorna, as well as her sister Beth, 14, and nine-year-old brother Mark, pictured.

Derek said: “I’m really proud of Emma for doing this.

“Her big sister Beth inspired her and we’ve all been overwhelmed by the support she has received from the local community, especially from our church,

The United Reform Church, and from St Patrick’s Primary School, Emma’s old school.

“Our neighbours in the street have also been very supportive.”

Teri Armstrong, from Just Go Mobile hairdressers, had the honour of cutting Emma’s hair.

She said: “I think it’s absolutely fantastic.

“My daughter did the same thing for the Little Princess Trust.

“I think it’s brilliant and more people should do it.”