Chesterfield schoolboy defies bullies and grows hair for cancer-stricken kids

Daniel McGovern, of Newbold, has grown his hair for more than two years to help youngsters who are battling cancer.

The ten-year-old will soon have his long locks chopped off and donate them to the Little Princess Trust, which provides wigs for children who suffer hair loss due to their gruelling treatment.

Generous Daniel – whose close cousin died of cancer three years ago – has also been fundraising for the charity, so far bringing in more than £700.

Despite enduring teasing and taunts at school, the youngster has remained committed to his charitable efforts – proving the bullies never win.

His mum Elaine, of Newbold, said: “I’m immensely proud of Daniel – I think he’s inspirational.

“As you can imagine, it’s been tough for a young boy to grow his hair long.

“He’s suffered terrible teasing and taunts at school – he’s been called all sorts of horrible names.

“His school brought in a rule that boys couldn’t have long hair but made an exception for Daniel as long as his was tied back in a ponytail.

“This was embarrassing for him but he did it.

“Daniel regularly gets mistaken for a girl by children and adults alike but he doesn’t mind any more because he’s so committed to growing it and helping children who’ve lost their own hair through cancer and other illnesses.

“I hope Daniel’s story shows other children what you can do when you really believe in something and how you can stand up to bullying and do something exceptional no matter how young you are.”

Elaine added: “He’s decided to get his hair cut on August 31, a couple of days after his 11th birthday.

“That will give him a few days to get used to his new look before starting at his new school.”

It’s not the first time Daniel has helped others – when he was eight he raised £60 to aid victims of typhoons in the Philippines.

Speaking of the bullies, Daniel said: “I don’t care that I’m getting picked on because I’m doing something good – they can’t do anything like that.

“The Little Princess Trust is such an important charity and I really want to help children who have lost their hair.”

To boost Daniel’s fundraising efforts, visit his JustGiving.com page here