A PORT Juniors footballer whose barnet has been likened to that of Brazilian superstar David Luiz has shed his locks for charity.

Centre-half Scott Paterson, 24, has been trying to emulate the former Chelsea defender on the park and off it with his afro.

He has been growing his hair for more than a year but decided to have it shaved off for the Gift of Hope Fund — set up in memory of his friend Jenna McKay, who died of heart failure aged just 18 in 2011.

Scott, who was born with a hole in his heart, has raised more than £700 from the sponsored stunt and all proceeds will help British Heart Foundation.

He has been backed heavily by his Port team-mates and club officials.

Scott said: “I’ve had phenomenal support. Eevryone has been really good about it.

“Almost every guy in my football team has a short, back and sides — so I wanted something a bit different.

“When I first started growing it people liked it — but when it got huge people kept shouting at me to get a haircut.

“I think I’ll miss it a little bit but sometimes it just gets too hot in the summer. I’m astonished that just cutting my hair has raised £700. It feels quite nice now that my afro is gone, plus, it’s all about raising money for a great charity.” To donate to the Gift of Hope fund, visit http://lastinghope.bhf.org.uk/JennaMcKay