Ashburton councillor and community stalwart Barbara Nicholl has reacted with her usual resilience to the news that she has developed leukaemia, writes Nigel Canham. Now undergoing chemotherapy in Turner Ward, Torbay Hospital, the larger-than-life character, who has battled several illnesses, has decided to beat the inevitable hair loss her treatment will bring and shave her head in a bid to raise cash for the ward. Life-long friend and clerk to Ashburton Town Council, John Germon, praised Mrs Nicholl's latest action. 'She's a great character, a true Ashburtonian who is always willing to help,' he told the Advertiser. 'It's very sad to hear about her current illness, but I wish her all the best and look forward to hearing her dulcet tones in the council chamber again soon.' those wishing to contribute to Mrs Nicholl's fundraising efforts could leave donations with him at Ashburton Town Hall. Mrs Nicholl's daughter, Charmaine Crost, said the news of her mother's illness had come as a shock. 'She was taken to hospital on Saturday,' she said. 'Naturally, we're struggling to come to terms with it, but just hope she gets better as quickly as possible.' Flowers are not permitted on the ward. Friends can make a donation to Turner Ward instead if preferred.