A disabled boy from Dorset is cutting off his long locks for the first time to raise money for charity.

Matthew Croad, 7, from Wyke Regis in Weymouth, who was born with global delay, will be raising money for the Little Princess Trust and donating his hair.

He was non-verbal until he reached the age of three and then was diagnosed with sensory disorder and speech and language display and has never had his hair cut before.

Connie Mills, 37, Matthew’s mum, said: “Matthew’s journey so far has been very challenging, but he has grown into a ray of sunshine, and everyone fell in love with him and his hair.

“He’s a very kind boy and even helps out in our local Tesco by putting the shopping baskets back for the staff- he always wants to help. He’s very well known in Wyke and has won the hearts of a lot of people.”

His mum has said that, due to his sensory difficulties, Matthew has never wanted to have his hair cut until one day where he was watching an advert featuring poorly children and started to ask his family some questions about fundraising.

She said: “He was really engaging during the advert, which was unusual, and was asking why they were sick and who helps them.

“We had to have a conversation in a way he’d understand saying that lots of charities raise money for children and adults.

Matthew Croad, 7, from Wyke Regis will donate his hair to charityMatthew Croad, 7, from Wyke Regis will donate his hair to charity (Image: Connie Mills)

“I told him about children losing their hair when going through treatment and he said ‘I have a lot of hair.’

“I replied that it’s lovely, and he said ‘I don’t know if I need all of it though- I want a haircut.’ Matthew never wanted his hair touched before which is why it’s as low as his bum.

“His favourite Youtuber is Mr. Beast and so he wants to have a haircut like his and donate the rest to charity.”

Given the fact that Matthew has never had his hair cut, Connie has been feeling ‘really nervous’ about the cut, which is planned to take place at the Changing Groom on Friday, August 30, a designated salon for donations to the Little Princess Trust.

Matthew Croad, 7, from Wyke Regis will donate his hair to charityMatthew Croad, 7, from Wyke Regis will donate his hair to charity (Image: Connie Mills)

She said: “I didn’t know he was serious at first. Four weeks later, I brought it up again just to make sure it was something that he really wanted to do. It’s such a big thing for him and he’s known for his long golden locks, so I’m nervous but proud.”

When asked how Matthew is feeling about the trim, Connie said: “He’s just determined to get it done.”

The family have set up a GoFundMe with a target of £1,000- which is enough money for the Princess Trust to make a wig. So far, £65 has been donated.

To view the fundraiser and donate, visit https://gofund.me/5baba0d4.