It’s something very few women would do, but for Gill Knight, whose best friend has cancer, it is a way of showing how much she cares.

The 53-year-old from Sandwich will shave her hair off at 8pm on tonight (Saturday), in front of a pub full of people at the Market Inn in Cattle Market.

The action is in support of her best pal, Sue Cope, who was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer late last year and is undergoing chemotherapy.

Gill said: “When Sue told me, I was at the vets. I came home and fed my animals and then I went round to her that evening.

“I thought ‘what can I do to show her how much I care and help in some way?’ So I said: ‘As soon as you start losing hair, I’ll shave mine’.”

Keeping to her word, the New Street resident has organised for Sue’s daughter Emma Moore, who is a hairdresser, to do the shaving.

Gill said: “People keep asking me whether I’m scared, but when it’s done, it’s done. I’ve bought lots of woolly hats!”

Gill and Sue have been friends for almost 10 years. Their story began when Gill worked for Sue at Munchies sandwich shop in the town.

Despite now having different jobs, the women have never lost touch and have been on several holidays together.

Gill said: “We’re both a bit bonkers. Sue’s very positive. She’s told me she’ll get as long as she can, whether it’s six months or six years.”

Gill is collecting sponsorship and all proceeds will go to the Viking Day Unit at the QEQM Hospital in Margate, where Sue is receiving her treatment.

Gill said: “Sue goes there every fortnight.

“She said they’re brilliant, the nurses are really positive.”

After the head shave, there will be a huge raffle with prizes donated by several Sandwich businesses.

Items up for grabs include hairdressing and beauty vouchers, champagne and food.

There will also be an auction for a this-season Vivienne Westwood bag which has been donated. It is currently going for £290.

To sponsor Gill or to buy raffle tickets, call Aileen at The Market Inn on 01304 447162.