The stories of three fundraisers:

Ray Monaghan from Raymond Anthony Hair Design, Brentwood, Essex, took part in the London triathlon in August 2006 to help raise vital funds for the charity.

"I read HJ every week and often see the efforts that HABB puts into its fundraising activities. As a company we have always done our bit for charity, but I like the fact that with HABB you get to see just where the money is going. It’s important that we look after those in our industry who have fallen on hard times," says Ray.

"I did a lot of training for the triathlon - six days-a-week , every week for a year. On the day I swam 1,500 metres, cycled 42 kilometres and ran 10 kilometres. My overall time was just over three hours and I raised £500 for HABB.

"It was a pleasure to take part in this event to raise money for a good cause."

Freelance hairdresser Lorraine Townsend won the FHBF Freelancing Fundraising Fortnight after she raised £565 from a sponsored swim.

"After attending last year's FHBF conference and hearing about the money raised by my colleagues for HABB, I wanted to do something too. I regularly swim twice a week and took part in a swim-a-thon about 10 years ago, so I thought it would be fun!" said Lorraine.

"I collected money from my clients and also hair manufacturers who I work with regularly. It's a unique charity and people were generous and supportive.

"I planned to swim a mile, but actually ended up swimming far more which was great. HABB is a very worthwhile charity. None of us know what lies ahead and how our lives can change through no fault of our own. I really believe that what goes around comes around, so everyone should help to raise money and awareness for this unique cause."

Marathon Man Martin Unnerman is a great supporter of HABB and ran the 2007 London Marathon on behalf of HABB. He completed the course in an impressive 4 hours and 46 minutes!