AN RSPCA volunteer has shaved his head following a major fundraising campaign for the York branch.

Callum Stewart raised £1,000 for the charity through his promise to lose his shoulder-length hair, and a fun day on Sunday raised an extra £2,313.21, which will all go towards a hydrotherapy treadmill for the site.

Angela Hunter, manager of the York branch, praised Callum and everyone else who helped raise money.

She said: “This was most definitely an uncomfortable thing for Callum to do as he is not generally one to be in the spotlight but he put on a brave face and let his colleagues - who had way too much fun with the scissors - do the deed. We had a great day and it was very pleasing to see so much support for our animal home. Over 250 adults, their families and in some cases their dogs visited us and spent a pleasant few hours looking around the animal home, attending the dog show and playing some games.

The York branch is also trying to raise money for a memorial bench and water feature to remember four supporters who have died in recent months.

Frank Preston, trustee, said Maureen Peacock, John and Liz Pickup and Jackie Bennett each had a long history with the charity

Mr Preston said: “John and Liz were a man and wife team who over the years have fostered in the region of 1,000 cats. John was also a trustee and treasurer of the branch for 20 years, and along with Maureen also a Trustee took over the reins of the branch when I believe it was on its knees. Together, they walked the streets of York knocking on doors to raise donations and it is safe to say that without their efforts the RSPCA York Animals Home would not have survived and be what it is today. Even when John retired he kept in touch with the Branch and visited the fundraising events at the home.”Jackie Bennett was a trustee, and died in March following a battle with cancer, and Mr Preston said she “would help everyone especially where animals were concerned”, and was a member of the fundraising committee.

He said: “They are without question all very sadly missed and a memorial to them is most fitting.”Donations can be given to the animal home in Landing Lane, and the charity hopes to unveil the new tributes at the midsummer fair on August 20.