CARMARTHENSHIRE residents are being encouraged to volunteer for Marie Curie's Great Daffodil Appeal.

Marie Curie nurses provide free hands-on care for people with a terminal illness in the comfort of their own homes. They also provide the vital emotional support needed by the patients loved ones.

Whether someone has cancer, heart failure, dementia or another terminal illness Marie Curie are there to do whatever it takes to make things easier. This could be relieving pain, symptom management, helping them in and out of bed, answering questions or just being a reassuring presence for both the family and the patient. Marie Curie allow families to make the most of their precious time they have left together.

The services are free to patients and their families. However, it costs Marie Curie £20 to provide just one hour of nursing care to someone with a terminal illness in the comfort of their own home.

That is why the charity is calling on the people of Carmarthenshire to help by volunteering for the Great Daffodil Appeal.

Supporters are asked to donate an hour this February and March to collect in your local town or supermarket. Volunteers will be provided with the iconic daffodil pins, a collection tin and crazy daffodil hat (not compulsory!) The money you raise will help provide more free nursing hours to people with terminal illnesses in the county.

To find out more about fundraising in the area or to volunteer for your local collection please contact Hannah, your local Community Fundraiser on 07798 638 078 or email Hannah.leckie@mariecurie.org.uk.