A SUPERMARKET worker has shaved off his hair and his beloved beard, to raise money for the NHS.

Ronkswood Co-op worker Josh Henney braved the shave over the weekend to raise money for the NHS.

Mr Henney, 26, wanted to say 'thank you' to local NHS staff working on the frontline, and offered to have his hair and beard – which he had sported for seven years – shaved off if Co-op stores in Worcester raised more than £1,000.

Mr Henney said: “I am slowly getting used to the new look after having a beard for around seven years. I have also received a few compliments on my new look.

“I am really proud and very thankful for the kind generosity of colleagues and the community – people wanted to show their appreciation and say ‘thank you’ to those in the NHS – local heroes saving lives and doing an incredible job during these difficult times.”

Amy Guest, Co-op’s area manager, added: “Josh is a popular character in the community and we were delighted with the response to his fundraising bid. I am so proud of Josh and the whole Co-op team across Hereford and Worcester – they really are a 'cut above'.

“The lengths they have gone to keep spirits high, shelves stocked and communities fed during this unprecedented time has been nothing short of amazing.”

The £2,000 raised by Mr Henney was donated to the Staff Wellbeing Shop located in Worcestershire Royal Hospital. The shop allows hospital staff to get hold of snacks and other essentials, free of charge, to support them on their shift.

Jason Levy from Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Charity, said: “The charity has been overwhelmed by the incredible support from the local business community.

“The Staff Wellbeing shops are used by over 600 staff on a daily basis. It would not be possible to keep this free service operational without donations. We are hugely grateful to the Co-op team.”