A MAN is growing his stubble for charity in memory of his brother-in-law.

Michael Arnold, 36, plans to grow his beard and hair for a year to raise funds for Little Havens Children's hospice.

Mr Arnold, a dad-of-one, said: "Last year my brother-in-law Colin had a childhood brain tumour re-emerge.

"He was told it was inoperable and he died in July, aged 33.

"Since then I have had a deep desire to raise money for the families using Little Havens hospice.

"It is a local charity and it does a lot of good work in the community."

Mr Arnold, of Beresford Road, South- end, hopes to raise £1,000 for the charity by refusing to take a razor to his locks for a full 12 months.

He said: "I think my main obstacle will be resisting the urge to cut it all off.

"I have always preferred having my hair short and being clean shaven so having to go 12 months without touching it will be a big challenge for me.

"I have had many comments already about being Santa and looking like a character from a Terry Pratchett novel, but everyone seems impressed of the commitment I am making and are very supportive."

Anyone wishing to sponsor him can visit www.justgiving.com/michaelshairandbeard.

To find out more information on Havens Hospices call 01702 220 305 or visit www.haven shospices.org.uk