But three brave Tesco workers faced the shears to have their hair shaved off last week in a bid to raise money for Marie Curie.

Hardware staff Martina Symington and Cathy Stewart, along with checkout operator Julie Dean had their long locks cut off, raising over £2,000 in the process.

Commenting that in no way were they brave, Martina explained: "It's the women who lose their hair through cancer that are the brave ones."

Adding that if their efforts went some way to making a difference, Cathy commented that going down to a 'Number Two' cut would be worth it.

"In the store we have a charity group and we were just discussing different things we could do to raise money for Tesco's charity of the year, Marie Curie," Cathy said.

She added: "Someone mentioned heads being shaved and we volunteered without hesitation."

Despite the initial bravado, come the final cut there were a few last minute nerves.

"On the morning, I thought 'what am I doing' but it's only hair and it'll grow back," Martina said.

Through sponsorship from staff and donations from customers, the girls are well on their way to having raised over £2,000.

"We didn't think we'd raise as much as we have and a big thank you has to go to all the staff and customers who have kindly donated money," Cathy said.

And despite being shorn of their lengthy locks, the girls are in agreement: "Now we can just wash and go."