THE woman who organises York’s civic events and diary for its Lord Mayors is tackling cancer head on to raise funds for two city charities.

Anne Platt, marketing and events manager at the Mansion House, lost her mum Margaret Skelton to ovarian cancer last September and was herself diagnosed with secondary breast cancer on Valentine’s Day last month.

The 45-year-old, of Reighton Avenue in Clifton Without, faced losing her hair through chemotherapy, but she was determined to stay in control by instead going bald on her own terms, while raising money for York Against Cancer and St Leonard’s Hospice.

And yesterday her hairdresser, Andy McClintock, of Thir13en Hairdressers, Feasegate, shaved off her crowning glory for her.

Anne said she had set up a JustGiving page www.justgiving.com/fundraising/anne-platt-rockingthebaldlook, so people could support her in her fundraising efforts, and they could also sponsor her via a form kept behind the bar at her regular pub, the Snickleway Inn in Goodramgate.

“I am taking back some control of the situation,” said Anne.

“I wanted to dictate what happened to my hair and not let the chemo take it from me.

“I am going to ‘rock the bald look’ in memory of my mum, who sadly passed away last September after a very brave 15-year battle with ovarian cancer.

“She had great support from both York Against Cancer, through the Cancer Care Centre at York Hospital, and using the other services offered by the charity including their flat in Whitby, and she spent some wonderful times at St Leonard’s Hospice, both in the Sunflower Centre, and towards the end of her life with a respite stay in the hospice.

“As a family, we can’t thank both charities enough for the support given to mum, and to us. I am very aware of how the services offered extend to the families of patients.

“Last weekend was our first Mother’s Day without mum, so what better way to pay tribute to her, and do something positive in her memory?”

Anne said her own cancer had spread to several places. She has already undergone radiotherapy and was now having chemotherapy for her condition, but she was determined to stay positive.

Anne’s husband Chris also agreed to have his head shaved in support if they reached an initial target of £500, which they did, so it’s two heads for the price of one!

“Along with my amazing husband Chris, and the support of family and friends we are tackling this head on - or scalp on, if you like,” said Anne.