From fetes to skinny dipping Poole volunteers raise £360,000

The Marie Curie Poole Fundraising Group were nominated for the award having raised the "incredible sum" for the charity since it launched in 2013.

The virtual awards, hosted by the charity, celebrated the many people who help Marie Curie provide care and support for people living with a terminal illness and their families.

Leader of the Poole group Richard Ayres, said: “It has been a great pleasure to design innovative events and to attend local fetes and now be recognised in the local community, whether it be for street or supermarket collections, quizzes or the many other events we have held.”

Natalie Garland, south west fundraising manager for Marie Curie, said: “The Poole Fundraising Group are a force to be reckoned with. They are driven, dedicated and thrive on building relationships in the community. From collections to skinny dips, there’s not much they haven’t done.”

Matthew Reed, Marie Curie’s Chief Executive said: “Their support is particularly important this year as the coronavirus has had, and continues to have, a devastating effect on our fundraising and income – income upon which we rely on to be able to provide vital care for dying people and their loved ones.

“The Poole Fundraising Group are such an inspiration who have gone above and beyond for the charity.

“Everyone at Marie Curie is so grateful for their support. We hope that receiving this award as recognition of their efforts shows how important they are to us.”

Marie Curie provides expert care and support to people at the end of their lives and their families.”

E: poolemariecurie@gmail.com W: mariecurie.org.uk