A young charity veteran and an older first-timer are among those lining up for their chance in the barber’s chair at the annual St Baldrick’s Foundation shave-a-thon today.

The 24th edition of the children’s charitable cause is set to take place at Docksiders on Front Street from 6pm to 9pm.

Participants will have their heads shaved as part of the global event, and so far the St Baldrick’s Foundation in Bermuda has raised more than $28,000 of its $100,000 goal, with 29 people signed up for the challenge as of last night.

The foundation said: “You’ll be giving hope to thousands of children diagnosed with cancer every day — from babies and toddlers to children, teens and young adults. In fact, you’ll be saving lives.

“Our event will speed the search for cures through St Baldrick’s, the largest charity funder of childhood cancer research grants.”

Billy Dunn, a first-time participant, said he was asked by a family member whether he would brave the clippers.

He told The Royal Gazette: “I was supposed to do it last year, but unfortunately the family member had to go off island for medical purposes and I missed the date.

“I decided to let my hair continue to grow, and participate in the event this year. I signed up, registered and donations are coming in pretty good.

“Hopefully by Friday I’ll be able to meet my target or be close.”

Mr Dunn is the vice-president and youth development programme co-ordinator of the Bermuda Motorcycle Racing Association’s youth racing programme.

He said his drive to help children was also another factor in his decision to take part.

Aidan Taylor, aged 12 and a seasoned shavee, was ready to go for his eighth time since he started supporting the charity.

The youngster has raised more than $14,950 for the cause but said there was “still a lot more to do”.

He added: “I believe that every small effort counts when it comes to making a difference in the world — and I want to do my part.”

Mr Taylor said soon after his 5th birthday, he entered the challenge and he noted that he was fortunate “to always be healthy”.

He said when he heard about St Baldrick’s at school in Saltus, he went home and asked his parents about it.

“They explained it to me, but what I understood was that there are kids who are so sick they can’t even play football with their friends,” Aidan said.

“I wasn’t OK with that, so I signed up and shaved my head a few weeks later along with some of my friends.

“I went around my neighbourhood explaining to anyone who answered the door about the sick kids and how we had to help them — and very few people were able to say no.”

• To support the cause, visit www.stbaldricks.org