PEOPLE are being urged to get creative and don their finest or quirkiest hats to support Brain Tumour Research.

The charity has put out a rallying cry for people to get involved with Wear A Hat Day 2018 to help raise funds for research to find a cure for brain tumours.

One business owner getting involved is the aptly named Lucy Bowler, who owns her own hat business near Bicester.

The businesswoman launched her company, Lucy Bowler Couture Millinery and Hilary’s Hat Hire, in the village of Fritwell last September.

Before this Ms Bowler previously worked in healthcare so decided this year to open up her studio and boutique for anyone to go along and try on hats, enjoy a cuppa and a slice of cake, and make a donation to Brain Tumour Research.

The mum-of-three said: "I have always had a strong connection with healthcare through my previous roles and it’s so shocking that more than 16,000 people are diagnosed with brain tumours every year in the UK, but so little is known about what causes them.

"More research is vital if we are to learn more and ultimately find a cure for this dreadful disease.

"Wear A Hat Day is a great way to raise awareness and I want to encourage people to come along and have some fun, particularly those who perhaps feel that hats aren’t for them, or aren’t sure what suits them. Hats are for everyone."

Wear A Hat Day 2018 will be held on Thursday, March 29, this year and Ms Bowler will open up the studio from 10.30am to 7pm.

The idea was launched by Brain Tumour Research nine years ago for Brain Tumour Awareness month throughout March.

Brain Tumour Research community fundraising manager Paula Rastrick said: "Brain tumours are indiscriminate; they can affect anyone, at any age.

"We are extremely grateful to Lucy for getting involved and hope people will support her and be inspired to hold their own events.

"It’s as easy as wearing a hat and making a donation."

If you would like to make a donation ahead of Wear A Hat Day 2018 text HAT to 70660 top donate £5 or visit wearahatday.org