A 'KIND and courageous' Basingstoke boy grew out his hair for two years so he could donate it to charity after a school friend was diagnosed with leukaemia.

Ethan Prout started to grow out his hair in 2021 to avoid the home haircuts from his mum, Lisa, during the lockdown. 

But, just before he was due to return to the hairdresser, Ethan found out his school friend Zara Kundra had been diagnosed with leukaemia, and she was losing her hair due to treatment.

Ethan said: "I first started fundraising as I didn't like my mum's haircuts! When I heard Zara had become poorly again I decided to keep going. I think more people should donate their hair to help children like Zara."

READ MORE: 'You're better off paying for a cab': Residents react to changes in bus routes

It took two years for Ethan's hair to reach the required length, and he was able to brave the shave in time for his 10th birthday party.

Basingstoke Gazette:

Lisa, Ethan's mum, said: "Ethan's hair is quite thick so washing and brushing it took a lot of effort as it grew longer, particularly in the summer months. His perseverance is admirable and we are so moved by his kindness and generosity shown to help others.

READ MORE: Basingstoke hospice celebrates refurbishment thanks to £5k grant

"The school kept the children in touch with Zara during her absence and this would always be the first thing Ethan talked about when getting home."

She continued: "As parents, you hope your children will grow up to be kind and considerate to others. Ethan has these qualities in abundance and we are immensely proud of him and this achievement. A massive thank you to Jean at Trillbys Pack Lane too, who did not charge for the haircut."

Zara's mother, Taruna, said: "Zara has had an incredibly hard journey fighting leukaemia. She lost her hair twice and looking at what Ethan has done makes me feel proud of both kids.

"This gesture from Ethan will go a long way in giving support and strength to Zara and other kids who are fighting similar battles. We need kids like Ethan who understand other's pain and are brave to express love and support to all."

Ethan celebrated his birthday on March 25, when he showed off his new trim to his friends. For more information on how to donate, go to justgiving.com/fundraising/lisa-prout.