Samson's strength came from his hair, but four Sinai Jewish Primary School pupils showed how bold and brave they were last week by cutting their hair off for charity.

Anya Berg, 11, Jenna Newgrosh, 11, Jessica Rowley, 8, and Eliana Panas, 8, had their hair cut during school assembly in aid of Zichron Menachem, which makes wigs for children with cancer.

"We are exceptionally proud of our selfless and kind girls and hope that they have inspired their friends to do the same," said Sinai headteacher Robert Leach. "It takes time to grow their hair to a sufficient length and the girls have shown impressive commitment, responsibility and generosity for a very worthwhile cause."

Eli Seliger, director of Zichron Menachem UK, said: " Losing one's hair can be tremendously traumatic at any age. To be able to provide these courageous children the opportunity to feel and look physically wonderful again, is an honour. We are incredibly grateful to these wonderful Sinai girls, who have taken it upon themselves to grow their hair for this life-changing cause."