A NEW volunteer fundraising group has been launched in Christchurch to raise awareness for Dorset nursing services and a vital cancer charity.

Mayor of Christchurch, Councillor John Lofts, gave the Marie Curie Cancer Care group his seal of approval at the launch event.

Budding volunteers met key members and supporters of the fundraising group at the Boathouse in Christchurch to discuss future involvement.

Community fundraiser Amy Salmon said: “We already have most of the key roles filled, but we wanted to invite along anyone who is keen to find out a bit more about the group and perhaps consider being involved.

“We’re looking for anyone enthusiastic and passionate about the cause.

“There will be about eight to 12 people in total in the group and so many opportunities to organise events and raise funds.”

The Christchurch fundraising group will meet every four to six weeks and fundraise for Marie Curie Cancer Care, which provides care to terminally ill patients in their own homes or in Marie Curie hospices, while offering support to families.

Volunteers will raise essential funds so the 88 Marie Curie nurses working across Dorset can continue to provide free care to more than 650 people with terminal illnesses in the county each year.

They will support the major fundraising campaigns including the Great Daffodil Appeal and Blooming Great Tea Party, as well as encouraging new supporters to join forces with them.

Marie Curie nurse Claire Head also attended the event to inspire the fundraising efforts. To join the group or find out ways in which you can support the charity contact Amy Salmon on amy.salmon@ mariecurie.org.uk