A TAVISTOCK teenager has braved the shave and cut off his long dreadlocks in aid of Samaritans to raise awareness of the taboo issue of teenage suicide.

Barney Treseder, 18, who works as a lifeguard at Meadowlands Leisure Centre, had all of his hair shaved off outside the centre on Wednesday, April 4. Friends and family supported him during the charity event, with some even donating more money to get the honour of cutting off one of his dreadlocks. He had been growing his hair for the past two years.

When first presented with a mirror sporting his new look, Barney told friends and family: ‘I have a really egg shaped head!’

He organised the fundraiser in memory of close friend Dagmara Przybysz, who tragically took her own life on May 17, 2016 at the age of 16.

He said his efforts to raise £500 for Samaritans were prompted, too, by conversations with close friends who were struggling with suicidal thoughts.

So far Barney has smashed his fundraising target, raising more than £700 for Samaritans.

Barney said: ‘Many thanks to Meadowlands’ staff and everyone who has donated, Samaritans is such an important charity and anyone who needs help or needs to talk should get in touch with them.’