Bristol Rovers players and staff shave their heads in support of cancer-stricken teammate

Bristol Rovers players and staff have shaved their heads in support of midfielder Nick Anderton who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, last summer.

The BS7 side launched a fundraiser earlier this month, setting a target of £1,600. Ten days later, more than £25,000 has been raised to support the Gas’ promotion hero through chemotherapy.

A crowd of players huddled outside the British Barbers Company, inside The Mall at Clifton, to cheer each other on as they took their seats in the barbers’ chairs. Terry, Dean and Jack of the British Barber Company had the honours of shaving the heads - with Terry and Jack admitting to supporting Bristol City beforehand.

Manager Joey Barton cut his locks, along with his son, to support Nick. Afterwards, he told Bristol World: “[The gesture] sums up how close-knit this club is. The whole thing was organic, it came from our captain [Paul] Coutts who put it together and everyone was on board.

“I’m sure other clubs would have done the same. Even my son had his head shaved. I had to get permission from his school and I’m not sure if they’ll recognise him tomorrow. One thing I’ve definitely noticed though is how cold it is.”

Fans have also shown their support by both donating and shaving their heads. Throughout the current league campaign, fans have held applause during the 16th minute of each game in tribute to Anderton who turns out in the number 16 for the Gas.

To donate to the fundraiser, click here