CRAZY curls, loopy locks and wacky wigs will be the order of the day this Friday when Bad Hair Day hits north Hampshire.

Schoolchildren, businessmen and grannies alike are stocking up on hair gel and heating the curling tongs ahead of this year's fundraising event to create crazy hairstyles and raise money for St Michael's Hospice.

Melanie Blackman, event manager, said: "St Michael's Hospice was built and funded by the community, and it is maintained by the community.

"It's so important that people continue to support it, but we don't just want people to feel sorry us. We want to give a bit of fun back to people - walking around with a purple wig on your head can make anyone smile."

Mrs Blackman said she hoped Bad Hair Day 2004 would raise £5,000 for the hospice, which needs £1.5million a year to provide care and support for terminally-ill patients and their families.

"Every single person can get involved whether it's something small, or by hosting a huge event. Every penny really counts," said Mrs Blackman.

Dozens of individuals from groups, schools and businesses have already signed up for the fourth annual event, and are planning their own bad hair activities for the day.

Among those taking part are staff at Nationwide Building Society, in Festival Place, Basingstoke.

Manager Steve Percy is set to have the company name stencilled onto his head with coloured hairspray, while members of staff at The Entertainer toy shop, also in Festival Place, are inviting customers to have their hair braided, plaited and coloured in store, in exchange for a small donation.

Many hairdressers are also joining in the fun with Arc Hairdressing, in Church Street, Basingstoke, holding a prize draw to win limited edition pink straightening irons, which normally retail at £125. Tickets cost £1 and are available from the salon.

FHC for hair Ltd, in Elmwood Parade, Winklebury, is asking clients for a £1 donation to the hospice in exchange for a discount book that saves people more than £25 on selected services and products.

For a fundraising pack, call Melanie Blackman on 01256 333300, e-mail melanie.blackman@stmichaelshospice.org.uk or visit the website www.stmichaelshospice.org.uk for full details.