A PORT teenager who was left partially bald due to a condition which causes her to compulsively pull out her hair has braved the shave for the hospice.

Bethany Stewart from Kelburn Terrace suffers from trichotillomania, a disorder where someone can't resist the urge to pull out their hair.

But the 18-year-old decided to turn this into a positive by shaving off her locals to raise funds for Ardgowan.

She said: "It's a difficult condition as I compulsively pull out my hair when I'm stressed.

"Half my hair had already gone so I thought I might as well shave the rest of it off and do something positive."

Bethany has had the condition since she was just 11.

She said: "There's been times when I'll stop for months then I'll start again.

"It happens when life is most difficult."

Bethany was keen to raise money for the hospice as her grandparents John McAteer and Robert Campbell Stewart were both supported by the charity.

She said: "They received end of life care there and I wanted to give something back.

"The hospice supported us throughout a difficult time and I would like to repay that kindness.

"They helped us so much."

Former Port Glasgow High School pupil Bethany, who is studying social sciences and criminology at West College Scotland, has raised about £200 after doing in the chair with hairdresser Christine Thompson.

Bethany added: "It's funny because I still feel that my hair is still there, but of course it's not.

"It's great in the morning though - it saves me so much time!

"I'm hoping that as it gradually grows back that will help me with my condition."

Bethany, who hopes to become a political researcher/political aide, is keen to thank everyone who supported her, including parents Tracey and Robert, twin sister Holly and brother John, 22.

She added: "My neighbours also raised £60, which was great."

Linda Kelly, head of corporate development at Ardgowan Hospice, said they are so grateful to the kind teen.

She said: "What Bethany has done is so inspiring.

"We never stopped being moved by those who support us and the incredible things they do to raise not just funds but awareness for the hospice. The money she has raised will allow us to continue to provide much needed palliative care and support for those who need it, we are extremely grateful."

Anyone who would like to donate money to Bethany's fundraiser can still do so online at https://ie.gofundme.com/f/1u9d36sryo