Schoolchildren 'braved the shave' in memory of a pupil who passed away from cancer earlier this year.

Year 11 students at Finchley Catholic High School have been raising money to support Noah's Ark Children's Hospice.

The charity is very close to the the students' hearts because it cared for 15-year-old Francis Dayrit - a former pupil at Finchley Catholic High School who died in May this year after he was diagnosed with cancer.

In Francis' honour and to support Noah's Ark, the school arranged for a barber to come down and shave the heads of pupils - with all fundraising proceeds going to the hospice.

Steve Nicolaou from Steve's Barber Shop in New Barnet visited the school and more than £6,650 pounds was raised.

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Liam Hourican, pastoral leader for year 11 at Finchley Catholic High School, said: "Fundraising always has a large focus within the pastoral life at Finchley Catholic. This year it has even greater significance.

"Sadly, during the school closure towards the end of year 10, Francis lost his battle with cancer.

"His funeral cortege drove passed the school and a large number of members of the community were able to pay their respects to Francis and The Dayrit family.

"When we returned in September, the year group decided that we are going to raise money for The Noah's Ark Children's Hospice where Francis received so much care.

"The fundraising team proposed 'Brave the Shave' and we were fortunate enough to also get the support from Steve who kindly volunteered to visit the school and provide the 'new hairstyles' outside in the main playground with PPE and in a safe manner given the Covid-19 restrictions.

"The school raised money through JustGiving and traditional sponsorship forms and raised a total of £6,688.68.

"We are so thankful for everyone's generosity and support with our efforts. Theresa Villiers MP donated money as well as writing to congratulate us on our efforts and send her condolences also."