The footballing world has praised Bristol Rovers after its playing and coaching staff braved the shave in support of teammate Nick Anderton who was diagnosed with bone cancer last year.
The Gas packed Clifton’s British Barber Company to raise money for Anderton who is undergoing chemotherapy. Earlier this month, a GoFundMe page was created by the club’s media manager, Andy Downie with a target of £1,600. By 4pm yesterday (January 16) when Captain Paul Coutts was the first to step into the barbers’ chair, £25,000 had been raised - after the effort, the tally now stands at close to £33,000.
Barbers Terry, Jack and Dean had the honours of shaving each head - a task which took longer than two hours to complete. Terry Joyce sported a Bristol City top throughout the event - the Bristol club he supports. To show solidarity, the shirt featured Nick Anderton’s number 16 on its back, when asked about the gesture, Terry said: “Cancer has no colour. I already cut a few of the players’ hair and when they’re in here it’s just like being with another one of the lads. We have a joke about our teams but they’re all regular boys at the end of the day.”
To donate to the fundraiser click here, below are 16 images Bristol World has selected from the fundraiser for you to enjoy.
1. Leading by example
Captain Paul Coutts was the first to brave the shave.
2. ‘Cancer has no colour'
Barber and Bristol City fan, Terry Joyce wore a City top bearing Anderton’s number 16 stating ‘cancer has no colour’.
3. Players pose for a video sending support to teammate Nick Anderton.
Players pose for a video sending support to teammate Nick Anderton.
4. Competition winner
Gashead Sarah Thomas won a competition to have her head shaved alongside the squad.