SEVEN golden-hearted lads have had their heads shaved to support a pal diagnosed with leukaemia.
Mark McMurray, a 17-year-old apprentice vehicle mechanic from Oswaldtwistle, was taken to hospital last week with a swollen leg and transferred to Christie's Hospital in Manchester after tests revealed the cancerous blood disease.
No sooner had they heard the news than Mark's compassionate mates started fund-raising for the hospital and had their heads shaved so their pal wouldn't feel uncomfortable when he loses his hair after chemotherapy.
Mark's sister Nichola, 26, who runs the family haulage business with brother David, 25, said: "His friends have been absolutely brilliant. I think Mark's a bit shocked by their kindness, but they are so close and have been friends for years.
"They have all offered to give blood to the hospital and they've said they're willing to have tests for a bone marrow match."
Nichola and David, who live with Mark and mum Marian in Stanhill Road, Oswaldtwistle, have already undergone tests to check their compatibility for a bone marrow transplant. There is a 50 per cent chance of a match.
Despite losing his grandmother five years ago and his dad six years ago, both to cancer, Blackburn Rovers fan Mark is bearing up bravely. Nichola said: "It was a bit of a shock at first, but he is doing really well and to look at him you wouldn't know he was ill.
"He is very positive and keeping his spirits up, as he should do because his treatment has been excellent."
Mark had his second chemotherapy treatment on Tuesday and is waiting to learn the results of the tests on his brother and sister.
Best pal Kennie Hill said: "His treatment is going well and we're all really hopeful.
"We're making sure he gets lots of visits and has whatever he needs."
Mark's friends raised £500 for Christie's by having their heads shaved at the Compliments salon in Oswaldtwistle.
