A leading cancer charity is appealing to volunteers across Dorset to give two hours of their time to hand out its iconic daffodil pins.

The charity is hoping to get more people than ever wearing the daffodil pin during its annual fundraiser, the Great Daffodil Appeal this March.

Marie Curies says that the appeal is urgently needed, as one in four people don’t receive the care and support they need at the end of their life.

With the population getting older, demand on the charity’s services is set to increase.

Money raised from the appeal will help Marie Curie nurses be there for more people living with a terminal illness, providing them with vital one-to-one nursing care and support in their own homes.

Natalie Millbank, Marie Curie community fundraiser for Dorset, said: “Volunteering to collect donations in return for daffodil pins is an easy way to get involved in the local community.

“You can collect with a friend or partner and know that you are helping Marie Curie be there when we are needed most.

“Chances are, we all know someone who’s been affected by a terminal illness.

“It’s heartbreaking that not everyone gets the care and support they need to live their final days with dignity, in the place they want to be.

“Our nurses care for people in their own homes, providing one-to-one care overnight and support for family members.”

“We’re always here with expert information, guidance or just a shoulder to lean on.”

“Every daffodil helps us care for more people- this is what makes the Great Daffodil Appeal so important.”

Sisters Sian and Sarah will both be volunteering for the Great Daffodil Appeal this March.

Their mother, Shirley, was cared for by Marie Curie before her death from stomach cancer in January, 2017.

Sian said: “When Marie Curie was looking after our mum, the nurses were kind, caring and patient and noting was too much trouble. Without Marie Curie, I don’t think we would have got through the last few weeks of mum’s life as well as we did.”

“We will forever be in debt to Marie Curie and we cannot thank them enough.

“Volunteering to collect is a great way for us to give back to the charity.

“It’s what mum would want.”

“The best thing about volunteering to collect is definitely meeting people.

“People will stop for a chat and tell you about their experiences of how Marie Curie helped them.”

Those wishing to volunteer two hours of their time to the Great Daffodil Appeal, can find out more at mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil, or call Dorset community fundraiser, Natalie, on 01179 420429.