AN INSPIRATIONAL Inverclyde man is losing his beloved locks to help cancer patients.

Jonny Shand, a weightloss coach for WW, is braving the shave on Sunday to raise vital funds for Ardgowan Hospice.

He initially set a target of just £350, but is on track to make TEN times that having already raised £3,165.

Jonny said: "I have been stuck in the house seeing as I'm off work at the moment and really wanted to do something to help.

"I couldn't go out and volunteer as I've got asthma, so I was trying to think of ways I could raise money while staying safe.

"My hair is my pride and joy but the current situation has really made me re-evaluate things, so I thought 'there's no better time to do this'."

The 31-year-old, who featured in the Tele two years ago after she an incredible ten stone, is using his large social media following to help raise awareness of the cause.

Jonny said: "I know that all of the fundraising events for the hospice have been cancelled over the next few months, which is awful as they do so much good work.

"The current situation is bad, but I'd never have raised this money in this way any other time, so I'm glad I can do something to help."

Jonny's total will also be topped up generously by his employers, Arnold Clark, who are donating £1,000 to his effort.

Friends, family, WW workshop members and supporters have rallied around to contribute to the cause.

Jonny added: "Things I'd normally worry about seem so small in the grand scheme of things and I know hair grows back.

"I'm really nervous about it, but knowing I am raising such a large amount of money for such an amazing cause is really making it all worthwhile."

Elaine McNeill, fundraising officer at Ardgowan Hospice, said: "We're all so impressed by Jonny's efforts and are delighted he's managed to raise such an outstanding amount of money so far.

"Coronavirus has had a really unprecedented impact on our fundraising efforts, so it's the kindness of people in the community, like Jonny, that enables us to continue funding our high level of compassionate patient care."

To contribute to Jonny's efforts, search 'Jonathan Shand' on JustGiving, or find the link on one of his social media channels.