A LUDLOW woman has had eight inches of her golden locks chopped off in memory of her friend who died from cardiomyopathy last November.

Zoe Ashbridge paid tribute to Leanne Brownhill by losing her long locks at Red Hair Studio based on New Road yesterday.

Zoe says she was worried about having the hair cut, performed by Kim Leighton with assistance from Nicola Davies, in the days leading up to it.

"I was having nightmares but as time went on I settled down," said Zoe, who was watched by a large group of friends, as well as Leanne's mother.

"I am really happy with it. Kim Leighton has done a fantastic job with my hair as expected. I am happy with the results although looking through photos afterwards has made me feel a little sad and I will be missing my long locks.

Zoe had known Leanne since she was 17 but did not realise how serious her heart condition was.

Zoe's hair will not go to waste as it is being sent to The Little Princess Trust, a charity based in Hereford, that will use it to make wigs and hair pieces for people undergoing treatment such as chemotherapy.

Money raised from the haircut, and other fundraising activities such as a quiz held at the Bull Ring Tavern, is going to the Cardiac Risk in the Young charity.

So far £1,000 has been raised. Visit www.justgiving.com/zoe-ashbridge to donate.