Marie Curie daffodil appeal launched in Norwich

A pensioner who freely gives up his own time to help a cancer charity yesterday helped launch the organisation's biggest fundraising drive.

Marie Curie's Great Daffodil Appeal helps raise million of pounds every year for the charity, which provides free nursing care in their own home for people with a terminal illness.

Throughout next month, the charity's volunteers will be out and about in towns and supermarkets across Norfolk to raise awareness of the appeal and encourage everyone to wear a daffodil pin. It is hoped �5m will be raised nationwide from this year's appeal.

Yesterday, Geoff Little helped launch the campaign at Norwich City's football ground in Carrow Road.

The 69-year-old, who lives in Bowthorpe and volunteers for Marie Curie every day, said: 'The daffodil appeal is Marie Curie's biggest fundraiser of the year. It's important for people to support it as Marie Curie sends nurses into people's home during their last moments. They look after their families, keep the families going and if anything goes wrong, they are there.'

Marie Curie Cancer Care hosted the appeal launch at Carrow Road after it was selected as Norwich City Football Club's chosen charity for the 2010/11 season. Collections will be held at the football ground on March 14 when the Canaries take on Bristol City.

Marie Curie nurse Anthea Brooks said: 'Every donation for a daffodil will help us to provide more free nursing care hours, allowing people to die in the comfort of their own home surrounded by family and friends. So please make a donation, wear a daffodil, and help Marie Curie.'

For more information, or to make a donation, go to www.mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil

kate.scotter@archant.co.uk