Ex-serviceman to have head shaved for charity (From This is The West Country)

Ex-serviceman to have head shaved for charity

7:00am Wednesday 31st October 2012 in News By Kirsty James

AN EX-NAVY weapons engineer who has been growing his hair for more than 20 years will have his head shaved for charity next week.

Howard ‘Lou’ Luesley, from Bower Manor, will mark his 50th birthday in style by shedding his locks the following day on November 10 in aid of Help for Heroes.

He said: “In August this year, after surgery, I suffered from a pulmonary embolism and pneumonia. It forced me to take stock and think about what I could give back to society.

“Being an ex-serviceman, I decided to raise money for Help for Heroes. I have raised £500 so far so I’m hoping to up that to £700.”

Lou grew his hair after leaving the Royal Navy in 1985. During his time in service he had it cut religiously and wanted to grow it long when he finished.

In the 16 years his wife, Amy, has known him he has always had long hair and a beard. She said: “Although it will be a shock seeing him with no hair I know it will grow back and I am proud of what he is doing.

“Lou is always touched by those coming back from active service with limbs missing or other life changing injuries.

“Although we had a shock and nearly lost him, with excellent treatment at Musgrove Park Hospital Lou will be able to go back to work shortly and lead a normal life.”

Lou’s daughter Elisabeth is particularly hoping her dad's hair will grow back as the family is heading to New Zealand in January for her wedding.

The head shave will take place at Bob’s unisex hairstylists, Bridgwater, at 10am. To donate visit http://www.bmycharity.com/lousbadhairday