BIG JIM Blything is shedding his shoulder length locks in memory of his heroic grandfather.
Because aged just 15, his proud relative was one of the first-ever recruits to join the army and fight in the trenches in the First World War.
Now on the 100th anniversary of the war, Jim, who celebrates his 50th birthday this year, is to be shorn of his trademark long tresses in public as part of his marathon charity fundraiser.
His grandfather, also called Jim, lived in Cheshire but joined the Northumberland Fusiliers with his cousin Bill.
Jim senior fought and survived The Somme and was awarded a special medal commemorating that he joined in the first year of the Great War in August 1914.
And today local musician and DJ Jim, from Delph, said: “My granddad was one of a remarkable bunch of youngsters who volunteered to fight when they left school.
“He lived into his 80s but he seldom talked about his exploits other than telling me and my parents ‘It was the worst time of my whole life’.”
Jim, who has recruited a mini army of enthusiastic volunteers to help, plans to raise cash for Help for Heroes, Saddleworth Special Needs Playgroup and will donate his hair to the Little Princess Trust who help children suffering from hair loss through cancer.
“I’ve always had long hair,” Jim explained. “But I was so moved by my granddad’s bravery, I felt it really important to do something tangible on the special anniversary of the First World War and my 50th birthday.
“I’m not having a complete head shave – more like a military short back and sides, just like my granddad.
Jim’s charity haircut will take place at 5pm in Dobcross Square on Sunday, August 10, during The Yanks are Back in Saddleworth 2014 celebrations at the Swan Inn.
To donate to Help for Heroes, text: BJIM50 with the amount, i.e. £2, £5 or £10, to: 70070.
You must be logged in to post a comment.