TWO women have gone completely bald – to support a friend’s fight with cancer.

Rachel Newall and Karen Thompson wanted to show solidarity with friend Adele Marshall, who was diagnosed with lymphoma in October.

They opted for a decidedly close shave after Adele’s treatment resulted in hair loss.

Rachel, 41, a complementary therapist from Quarmby, said: “I was on holiday with my husband in Northumbria when we heard that Adele had been taken into hospital with extreme abdomen and back pain. She was diagnosed in 48 hours.

“It struck us because we also have another friend who has been battling cancer for two years.. I wanted to do something for Lymphoma Research, something longer lasting than a jump out of a plane or a fun run.

“I rang my girlfriends and said this is what I’m going to do, does anyone want to join me?

“Kaz had a friend in remission from lymphoma so she volunteered straight away.

“I’ve never had a cut like this before, it feels very strange. I keep looking where my hair should be but it’s not there.

“I’ve gone for a hat at first because it’s so chilly but the point is not to cover it up.

“Some cancers have a much higher profile than lymphoma, not so many people know about it compared with breast and prostate cancer so it’s a chance to talk about it.

“I’m reluctant to wear a hat but it might depend on the weather.”

Karen, 54, of Scissett, works as a horticultural assistant and admitted: “I’d normally wear a hat at this time of year.

“The reason we did it was to support Adele and others.