Fed up with Evening Gazette sport reporter Francis Ponder's mullet?

He claims his 'stylish silver locks' are a winner.

Shearing time - John Pearce of North Hill Barbers demonstrates what's coming for the Evening Gazette's Francis Ponder Picture: STEVE ARGENT

But there are those who reckon he looks more like a member of 70s glam rock band The Sweet.

Opinions vary, but only one thing is for sure it's got to go.

And in the name of a good cause, Ponder, who works at the paper's Colchester office, has finally relented.

To raise much-needed cash for the Evening Gazette's Sparkle Appeal, Frannie has agreed to have his hair shaved down to a number one cut.

And we are giving you the chance to wield the clippers on Thursday, May 29.

The person who stumps up the most sponsorship money gets to shave a mullet as famous as Nightclub owner Peter Stringfellow's.

Ponder said: "All my real fans will pay more sponsorship money for me to leave it as it is."

So far, Colchester United boss Phil Parkinson and player Thomas Pinault have put themselves into the reckoning, as has former manager Steve Whitton, who had a running battle with Ponder about his hair-do.

To sponsor Francis Ponder, send your cheque or postal order made out to The Sparkle Appeal to: The Sports Desk, Oriel House, 43-44 North Hill, Colchester, CO1 1TZ

Published Tuesday, May 20, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette