A schoolboy who was mistaken for a girl after growing out his long locks has chopped it all off for a good cause.

George Houlding, of New Ash Green, Longfield, grew his hair by more than 10 inches to donate it to the Little Princess Trust, which will use it to make wigs for children undergoing cancer treatment.

The nine-year-old got inspired to grow out his flowing mane after seeing a girl in his class take on the challenge.

He asked his mum, Katie, whether he could do the same and she set up a JustGiving page.

Within 48 hours the fundraiser had amassed more than £700 in donations.

Not even remarks of "that girl is good" while playing for his football club, the New Ash Green Grasshoppers, could deter him from his goal.

Katie, added: "People often mistake him for a girl but he doesn't seem to mind.

"They compliment him on his long hair and I ask if it bothers him but he just replies 'I don't want to upset them mum'."

The big chop took place earlier this month at the New Ash Green Rugby club in the Pavillion.

Team mates watched on as his flowing mane was cut down to size.

Katie said: "He was a bit overwhelmed, the whole football team where there watching. But it was really good the support he got."

She said the idea came completely from her son.

"So there I was outside the school one day waiting for my little boy," she added.

"He come running out with a very inquisitive look on his face and asked if he could cut off all his hair and donate it."

George's efforts have raised more than £2,000 to date.

The charity specified hair must be grown by at least seven inches, with lengths above 10 preferred.

When George got to seven he said: "he might as well carry on".

The football mad youngster is enjoying having the weight of his long hair off his shoulders but told mum "in a few years time he might grow it back".

To donate click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Dartford

Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend