Lee braves a shave
Sarah Jane McDonald A kind painter braved an open razor after spending a year growing his beard in a bid to raise cash for the Ayrshire Hospice.
Lee Rankin, 41, put down the shaver shortly after his 40th birthday, growing the facial fuzz to a whopping EIGHT INCHES for the charity which relies entirely on donations to support patients and families affected by life- limiting conditions.
Earlier this month, the dad- of- two went under the blade, allowing barber Chris Thomson to do the honours of clean shaving him at Tony’s Hairdressers.
On the big day, he said: “I decided it was time to give something back to the community and the Hospice is a very special place that has helped so many people across Ayrshire and beyond.
“I’ve been growing my beard since my 40th birthday and I knew this would be a fun and different way to raise money for such a great cause.
“From start to finish, this has been such a fulfilling experience and I’ve been completely overwhelmed by the support and donations I’ve received from such a simple fundraising idea.
“A massive thank you goes to all of my friends, family, community groups and local businesses that have played an amazing part in making my dream to help the Hospice a reality.
“Ayrshire has such an amazing community spirit, I barely recognise myself and had a fantastic time raising cash for such a great cause.”
On the donation, assistant fundraising manager from Ayrshire Hospice, Ron Swanson added: “We are very fortunate to meet volunteer fundraisers like Lee in the Ayrshire community.
“Ayrshire Hospice hugely relies on the kindness and generosity of local people and the efforts of Lee, and many others like him, are truly appreciated.”