BRAVE Lina James is going to take the plunge and have all her lovely locks shorn off to raise money for the Children in Need appeal.

And while the winter wind whistles around her ears she will have to tough it out as she stands out in all weathers to help the children of St John's School, Coleford, across the road.

Their lollipop lady will be looking a little different for some time unless she keeps her hat firmly in place!

"I was thinking about having a hair cut anyway, but then I saw something about Children in Need on the television and the idea suddenly came to me," said the mother of three children, all girls.

What did they think of their mother's plans?

"Well at first they were very worried because my husband Robert teased them that the whole family was going to have it done," said Lina. "It was some time before he let them off the hook."

But now the three, aged nine, seven and four, are proud their mum is willing to help raise cash for needy children.

Lina said she would welcome any sponsorship for the event. "I am starting to go round the businesses in the area to see if they can help," she said. "Hopefully we should be able to get a good total."

The deed takes place on Friday November 26 at Hairs and Graces in Pyart Court, Coleford.