A DARING Bishopton man has been hair doing his bit for Alzheimer Scotland – raising thousands of pounds in the process.

Graham McKenzie, 30, shocked staff when he came into the village salon Avalon and asked to have his hair dyed bright purple.

Just as pink is the colour of awareness for breast cancer, purple is the hue used to represent Alzheimer’s.

Graham helps look after his partner’s parents, who have vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s, so wanted to do something to raise cash and awareness of the disease.

He told The Gazette: “Part of the deal was getting my hair dyed purple and the stylists at Avalon didn’t disappoint. It’s one of the more radical hairdos I’ve had in my time. Avalon also done a fantastic gesture and donated the costs to the charity also.

“I’m well chuffed and have still got more money coming in too so it’s fantastic.”

Graham, who works for an online business, managed to raise over £2,500 for the charity thanks to generous donations from friends and family.

And as for getting used to his new look, Graham still finds himself looking in the mirror and getting a fright every now and then.

He said: “It got people’s heads turning on the train, so if people ask, I’ll tell them about the charity and to look it up. It’s awareness, since it’s the biggest killer in the UK.”

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia which can include memory loss and difficulties with thinking.

Find out more at www.alzscot.org.