Sidmouth teenagers are pulling together to support one of their own after he was diagnosed with cancer.
The family of 14-year-old Harvey Slater said they have been moved by the efforts of the Sidmouth College community to raise money for CLIC Sargent, which has been supporting them through his diagnosis.
A whole-school non-uniform day raised £758, but pupils have also organised their own events to support Harvey.
Among the individual contributors was year eight student Abi Hext, who cut off eight inches of her hair. Her long locks have been sent to The Princess Trust to make wigs for children who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment.
Abi’s hair had reached down to her hips before being cut by Sarah White at the end of last term.
Abi said: “It was very long - I was going to do it anyway as I thought it would be nice to do it and know that you have done something nice for someone. When I found out about Harvey, I had a reason to do it.”
A second student, who did not wish to be named, will be donating more than £900 after shaving his head.
Harvey’s family said: “We would just like to say how moved we were by the school and all the pupils who were kind enough to donate for CLIC Sargent, who have helped us and continue to help us. We can’t say thank you enough.”
Co-principal James Ingham-Hill added that the whole school community was rallying to support Harvey and his family.
Mr Ingham-Hill said: “Harvey is an amazing young man who is very popular within the college. In addition, two of our incredible students decided to commit personally to the fundraising by either shaving or cutting their hair. These gestures enabled significant funds to be raised and was another clear indication of the amazing camaraderie that exists within the college.
“As co-principal, I am often in awe of the actions and achievements of our amazing students. The fundraising events for Harvey are just another example that demonstrates how caring and compassionate our tight-knit college community is.
“It is great to think that the money raised will not only have a positive impact on the care that Harvey receives, but will also assist the treatment of other youngsters across the country.”
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