A Newport pub landlord known for his waist-length hair has gone bald for charity, raising around £2,000 for Mountbatten Isle of Wight alongside 5 of his regulars.
Steve Wheatley, landlord of the Prince of Wales opposite the Newport Bus Station, cut a striking figure even before the clippers came out – a scooterist with flowing locks and a straggly beard that hadn’t seen scissors in 6 months.
But on Sunday (21st December) that all changed…
Steve said:
“I haven’t had my hair trimmed for 6 months. Now, when I look in the mirror, I don’t recognise myself. The last time I had short hair was 20 years ago. My mum was delighted.”
“I don’t conform to stereotypes.I was a scooterist with long hair. Now I’m a scooterist with no hair.”
His partner Sally Hills gave her honest opinion on the dramatic transformation, commenting:
“He doesn’t look so old any more.”
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Also going under the clippers were Brendan Cassford, Mark Bradley, Vince Jach, Eddie Christie and Dave Inge.
The head shaves were carried out by Jacob and Bodhi from Lost Boy Studio, who stepped in at the last minute to make it all happen. Lost Boy Studio has barbershops on Holyrood Street and Watchbell Lane.
Jacob, from Lost Boy Studio, said:
“It was a brilliant atmosphere, and we were really happy to be part of it. One of our team has lost a relative to cancer, so it meant a lot to give something back to the community.”
The idea for the fundraiser started during a casual night at the bar.
Mark Bradley explained:
“We were all sitting round one night. My mum had died in Mountbatten Hospice. We thought – what a good charity to do a headshave for.”
The event drew a lively crowd, with generous donations and a strong sense of community throughout the night.
Steve added:
“It’s a community-based pub. Even though it was heaving for the head shave, I knew everyone’s names. It has the feel of a village pub. It was a big, fun community day. Everyone had a great time.”
By closing time, 6 men were bald, the landlord was unrecognisable, and Mountbatten Hospice was £2,000 better off.
