Hamble staff raise funds for cancer charity with head-shaving stunt

Duty managers, Leigh Lewis and Rebecca Lord, along with sales manager, Chris Sandy, voluntarily shaved their heads to raise funds for The Matthew Walklin’s Make a Smile Foundation on March 16.

The charity was set up 12 years ago by Leigh's friend, who lost his brave fight against cancer.

In front of an audience of about 30 members and their families, the trio was greeted with an outpouring of support and emotion, with Matthew’s parents also present.

Rebecca, Leigh and Chris (Image: Supplied)

The event was live-streamed on the centre's Facebook page, allowing members who weren't able to attend to watch the touching event from home.

READ MORE:

• Company Shop members save over £5m and reduce food waste

Support towards the event came from a number of different quarters, with PMX Coatings Hamble donating posters for advertising.

Matthew's mother at the event (Image: Supplied)

Tom, the barber from TL Cuts Bitterne, carried out the cuts, and efforts to raise donations over recent months saw contributions from the Aqua Girls of Hamble Sports Complex and members such as Deborah Currie.

READ MORE:

• The friendly neighbourhood hairdresser turning ten with a salon cocktail party

The Foundation, set up by Matthew, a passionate sportsman, aims to aid patients receiving cancer treatment by providing additional facilities, services, and equipment to enhance their comfort and preserve connections with loved ones.

Chris, Leigh and Rebecca (Image: Supplied)

Ms Lewis said: "Matt being one of my closest friends brought a smile to so many with his positive, inspirational, uplifting energy.

"We want his charity to help bring a smile to those in need, to remain positive and ‘live the dream’ – a phrase he lived by right up until his passing."

Chris West, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: "We are thrilled to have been able to facilitate such an impactful, feelgood day which, thanks to Leigh, Rebecca, and Chris’ hard work, will undoubtedly help this amazing charity help more individuals undergoing cancer treatment."