YOUNGSTERS are staging a hair raising fundraising event to boost the work of a cancer charity helping their friend.

Ten-year-old Sophie Foster, of Shildon, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in February.

Fellow pupils at Thornhill Primary School, Shildon, County Durham, are taking part in CLIC Sargent’s Wig Wednesday national fundraising event.

The children, amongst them Sophie’s brother Alex, aged nine, will wear multi-coloured wigs and take part in fun activities next Wednesday (May 22) at the school.

They will pay a donation to take part and the money raised will be given to the CLIC Sargent charity.

Paula Foster, Sophie’s mother, said: “It was a complete surprise when the leukaemia was diagnosed.

“She has spent quite a lot of time in hospital but she has handled it amazingly. She’s been so brave and optimistic.

“She is still having intensive treatment. When she lost her hair due to the treatment she said it was okay as it would grow back again.”

She added: “We have a CLIC Sargent social worker, Kirsten Ellis, and she has been so supportive and it’s a very worthwhile charity to support.”

The children have sporting, water plus arts and crafts activities lined up for Wig Wednesday.

Sally Green, headteacher, said: “The children here have organised the activities for Wig Wednesday.

“The whole school has been involved and we are very happy to help out the charity.”

Dee Tyler, CLIC Sargent area fundraising manager, said: “This initiative allows people to show that they care about the youngsters going through this experience, while also fundraising to support them.”

To donate to Mrs Foster’s fundraising for CLIC Sargent visit www.justgiving.com/sophiesfight.