A GROUP of friends who raised £33,000 for charity by shaving their heads have put their success down to the support of people in Weymouth.

The friends, known as the Baldies, raised the money for the Dorset County Hospital’s Digital Mammography Appeal, through sales of a calendar, and other fundraising activities including a skydive and a concert at the pavilion.

Anne Marie Male, whose diagnosis with breast cancer sparked the fundraising drive, said presenting the final cheque marked the end of a ‘phenomenal’ journey.

The Weymouth hairdresser added: “For something that started out as a group of friends sitting in a pub and joking about shaving their heads, I just can’t believe how much we’ve managed to raise.

“We couldn’t have done it without the support of local businesses and local people. They’ve all been brilliant.”

And for Mrs Male, the milestone coincides with more good news.

She said: “I had my last mammography in December.

“I’m now completely clear of cancer and well on the road to recovery.”

Jean O’Callaghan, chief executive of Dorset County Hospital, said: “I believe that the Baldies’ donation is the single biggest contribution to the appeal from a group of fundraisers.

“This is a fantastic achievement and we are extremely grateful for their help to make the new digital mammography a reality.”

The £500,000 scanner attracted county-wide support from fundraisers, businesses and celebrities since the launch of the appeal a year ago.

Dorset County Hospital has now put in an order for the machine.

But the Baldies have vowed to continue their good work, and are organising another concert at the Pavilion to take place later in the year.

Proceeds will be donated to Julia’s House.

• The Baldies are appealing for entertainers and security for their next fundraiser.

Volunteers should contact steve@webminus.com