A Maidstone hypnotherapist has taken a bald step in tribute to her late mother’s battle with cancer.

Ali Hollands, 40, who specialises in Stop Smoking Therapies, had the charity crop last Friday during a saints and sinners-themed Macmillan Cancer Support coffee morning.

Colleagues at the ProHealth Therapy Rooms in King Street provided saintly treatments as raffle prizes, while co-host and baking blogger Britt Whyatt provided the sin, tempting guests with sweet treats.

The event raised £800 for Macmillan.

Both Ali and Britt lost their mums to smoking-related cancers.

Mum-of-one Ali said: “I was frightened to look in the mirror at first.

“It seemed like a good idea at the time, but when the clippers went on it dawned on me that I would be left with no hair.

“My mother died in 2000. No one should have to endure the pain and long-term damage of losing a parent in that horrid manner.

“I use my craft to do my part in reducing premature deaths related to smoking.”

To donate £5, text COFFEE 1GM to 70550 or visit Ali’s charity page at www.justgiving.com/Ali-Hollands-Goes-Bald-For-Macmillan