A seven-year-old girl with an “enormous heart” has had her long hair chopped off so it could be made into a wig for children who lose theirs through cancer.

Dunmow Broadcast: Little Lucy Aylesbury before her haircut.Little Lucy Aylesbury before her haircut. (Image: Archant)

Lucy Aylesbury, who attends Dunmow St Mary’s Primary School, was inspired to do the charitable gesture after seeing someone else doing it on YouTube.

Her mum, Karen, researched the Little Princess Trust, which gives wigs away to children suffering from cancer – and she agreed to support her daughter by getting her locks chopped as well.

The pair went to the 64 Hair and Beauty salon in Great Dunmow to get their new style and hairdresser Emma Sherman donated her time for free.

Lucy also raised £490 for the Little Princess Trust.

The youngster had set a target of £350 as that is how much it costs to make a wig and she is delighted with the extra amount.

Mum Karen, who works at St Mary’s school as a teaching assistant, is very proud of her daughter.

She said: “Lucy is a wonderful little girl with an enormous heart.

“We are grateful for all the support and donations we have received, with special thanks to 64 Hair and Beauty for treating Lucy like a ‘little princess’ herself and donating their time, providing the hair cuts free of charge.”