365 day beard challenge for Frome man

A FROME man is two months into a year-long hair growth challenge to raise money for Dorothy House.

Rob Marshall began the challenge on Saturday 5th October and will go a whole year without having his hair cut or shaving.

He is attempting the challenge as his father-in-law, David Wilson, has recently lost his battle with oesophageal cancer and spent the  end of his life at the Dorothy House Hospice.

Rob said, “Unfortunately David lost his battle recently but he was at Dorothy House as he wished, his family were with him and he passed peacefully after a happy day laughing and smiling with his family. Although this was a lot sooner than we had all expected, it was nice to see him so happy even at the very end of his journey.

“We managed to reach our target of raising £1,000 on the day he died, which was at the time just one and half months into our year-long challenge, which just goes to show how loved and treasured David was and he was so happy and humbled by the support and generosity shown by everyone. We have now raised the target to £2,000.

“My friends think it’s hilarious and my family support the challenge, although  I think they’re a bit concerned about having to be seen with a scruff bag!”

David was born and bred in Frome; he was born in his house at Willow Vale where he lived with his parents and sisters until he married his wife Caroline. They moved to Westover on the Critchill estate and have lived there ever since for the past 35 years of their marriage. They had their daughters Kelly and Naomi who both still live in Frome as well.

Rob’s wife is also planning a series of fundraising events throughout the next year. For more information and updates on the challenge visit www.facebook.com/365daybeard or if you wish to donate visit  www.justgiv ing.com/365daybeard.