A WOMAN whose great niece has a rare neurological condition 'braved the shave' this weekend to raise more than £4,000 for the charity that supports her.

Ursula Hardaker decided to shave off her curly hair to raise funds for cerebral palsy charity Stick 'n' Step.

Three year old great-niece Iris attends weekly conductive education sessions at the charity's Wallasey centre, which offers support services to children with cerebral palsy and their families.

Iris joined other friends and family, who gathered at a safe social distance, to watch Ursula take the plunge and brave the shave on Sunday.

Ursula told the Globe: "I have long bemoaned the monthly ritual of 'getting my roots done' and have always had a love-hate relationship with my unruly curls.

"I have threatened many times to shave it off, start again and embrace the grey!"

"Stick ‘n’ Step has provided a lifeline to Iris, teaching her practical ways to manage the additional challenges that accompany a disability. I am so grateful to all the people who have donated to my appeal.

"Iris needs lots of help to move and learn, and to fulfill her potential in life.

"The amazing staff at Stick 'n' Step have opened their arms wide and welcomed her into their world, offering the kind of love and support that is so often missing for families of disabled children.

"The charity relies on fundraising to keep its doors open so this is the perfect opportunity for me to brave the shave, embrace the grey and help raise funds!"

Praising the organisation's staff, Iris' mum Anna said: "It's easy to feel a bit lost as a disabled family. You often find yourself on a never-ending search for answers and support.

"When we found Stick 'n' Step last year, arriving into their warm and caring environment was the biggest relief.

"Staff went out of their way to use their experience and expertise to help Iris achieve her goals when we were struggling.

"The determination they show to help your child do even the simplest of tasks is humbling and takes the biggest weight off your shoulders as a parent carer.

"Being able to go there every week is our privilege."

Ursula’s Just Giving page has already raised over £4,000 for Stick ‘n’ Step. To help boost her total further, go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ursula-hardaker.