Tom's family story behind charity headshave

A boy had his hair shaved to raise money in memory of his grandfather and great-grandfather, who both died of cancer.

Tom Farnsworth, 11, of Westgate, Southwell, had the close shave for Cancer Research UK.

Tom’s grandfather, Mr Colin Martin, was 41 when he died in October 1989 when Tom’s mother was only 13.

His great-grandfather, Mr Norman Davies, died on Boxing Day, 2012, aged 82.

Tom started thinking about fundraising after a class discussion about grandparents at the Minster School, where he is a pupil.

“My mum’s dad died of cancer when she was young and I’m getting near the age she was now and it made me think about my family,” Tom said.

“I wanted to raise money for cancer awareness and I was looking around to find a way to get involved.

“I thought shaving my hair would be the bravest thing I could do for Cancer Research.”

Mr Martin spent his childhood in a Barnardo’s children’s home but studied hard and made a career for himself in insurance.

His daughter, Tom’s mum, Mrs Lisa Farnsworth, said she had to grow up quickly as a result of his death.

Mr Davies served with the Royal Army Service Corps during the second world war and was happily married for more than 64 years.

Tom said he cherished the happy memories he shared with his great-grandfather.

“I have a photo in my bedroom of me, him and my family and when I look it reminds me of him,” he said.

Surrounded by family and friends on Saturday, Tom had his hair shaved at the Barbers Chair, Southwell.

Mrs Farnsworth, 39, said she was overwhelmed when she found out what Tom was planning.

“Normally he is very quiet and unassuming, but he has been so self motivated and proactive with the fundraising,” she said.

“I heard he had been round school and raised £50, and then I realised just how serious he was about it.”

“We know that his grandad would have been very proud of him.”

Tom was supported by classmates who went round campus with collection buckets.

A justgiving page has raised more than £1,500.

As a result of his efforts, Tom will become the first Southwell Scout to receive the new fundraising badge.

Mrs Alison Sutherland, leader of Southwell Scout Group, said she was proud when she heard what Tom was doing.

“In the Scouts we are always encouraging them to think of others before yourself, and he has done a fantastic thing,” she said.

To donate to the cause, visit www.justgiving.com/Tom-Farnsworth2/