For luscious-locked veteran Eddie Aldridge, the onset of spring means one thing – short back and sides, please.

Romford Recorder: ... during...... during... (Image: Archant)

The 70-year-old has his hair cut for the Poppy Appeal and Operation Shoebox every year at the Royal British Legion in Maylands Avenue, Elm Park. So far he’s netted more than £2,000 for good causes.

Romford Recorder: ... and after, with Viv Muldoon... and after, with Viv Muldoon (Image: Archant)

“This is the fourth time I’ve had my hair cut for charity,” said the Coronation Drive resident, whose latest endeavour has raised £350 and counting.

Eddie’s glad to be giving something back to the club that has supported him through tough times.

“I came out of hospital after seven months in February last year,” he said. “The legion donated a motorised scooter for me.

“Without that I’d be lost. I can go into Romford on it – I even go shopping to Gallows Corner.”

Operation Shoebox was set up in 2005 and sends shoeboxes of gifts to British troops in Afghanistan. The Poppy Appeal raises cash for injured servicemen and women and their families.

Eddie, who served in the Welsh Regiment in the late 1950s, said he hoped to be back for his next haircut in April 2014.

“I’m 70 and my hair’s still growing,” he added proudly. “I see men of 35 in the club who’ve got no hair at all.

“I asked for a number one but Viv Muldoon, who cut my hair, said: ‘It’s a bit cold – you can have a number two.’

“I’ll have the same again next year.”