Hemel Hempstead schoolboy raises nearly £500 for 'life-saving' children's hospital

Alfie Hebborn, a 12-year-old from Hemel Hempstead has raised nearly £500 for Great Ormond Street Hospital, where he recovered from illness aged three.

Alfie suffers from a severe food phobia and issues caused from this illness threatened his life at an early age.

His recovery and rehabilitation was carried out at the hospital which specialises in offering intensive services for youngsters.

Alfie also has autism and continues to work on his development at Great Ormond Street facilities.

To repay the staff who have helped him over the years Alfie made the brave decision to shave off his curly hair.

His mother Tracey spoke to The Gazette about her son's fundraising efforts. She said: "This was all his own idea. He wanted to thank them for the continued support they give him with his food phobia and he is aware of the many children they help.

"We are extra proud as Alfie has Body Dysmorphia too and is very conscious of his appearance. He really loves his hair, especially his lovely curls."

Alfie currently attends Falconer School in Bushey, he was previously featured in The Gazette when he organised a toy giveaway at Christmas.

Alfie's fundraising page is available here, where he posted the following message: "I would like to take the time to thank you for supporting me with this fundraiser for Great Ormond Street Hospital. I am doing this by shaving my head! They have helped me so much with my food phobia and I want to thank them. Your donations will make such a difference."