A REALITY TV star is to be the next celebrity to donate his locks to a county charity.

When Mario Falcone, from ITV’s TOWIE recently heard about the Little Princess Trust's #RealLifeRapunzel competition – a search for the longest hair donation – he felt compelled to show his support.

The Hereford-based charity provides free real-hair wigs for boys and girls suffering hair loss cancer and other illnesses.

Mario said: "The Little Princess Trust does incredible work. I wanted to get involved and show my support, so I’ve decided to donate my hair to the charity, hopefully inspiring others to do the same."

Mario will be losing his luscious locks on March 21.

The closing date for the trust’s #RealLifeRapunzel competition is March 31.

To be in with a chance of winning, hair donations for this competition must exceed 12”/30cm.

Monica Glass, charity manager at Little Princess Trust, said: "We are absolutely thrilled that Mario has decided to donate his hair, just as we are grateful to every kind soul who chooses to support us.

"Mario is a popular figure and therefore has a large fan base. His celebrity profile will certainly help raise awareness of the work that we do.

"Receiving a real hair wig has a hugely positive impact on a sick child and any support is very gratefully received by the charity."

Mario’s generosity doesn’t end with his ponytail donation. Accompanied by his sister, Giovanna Fletcher – married to Tom from McFly – he has also offered to choose the overall winner of the competition from the five finalists at a very special event in London on April 29.

For more information visit littleprincesses.org.uk/competitions/

Anyone who is inspired by Mario and who would like to support the charity should visit littleprincesses.org.uk