THE first fund-raising events of the Marie Curie Nurses Appeal are under way.

People across Bolton are holding “Blooming Great Tea Parties” in June and July in a bid to help reach the charity’s £200,000 target.

Marie Curie Cancer Care launched its campaign, which is being supported by The Bolton News, on Thursday because it wants to provide more free nursing care to terminally ill people in their own homes.

The charity needs to raise the money over the next 12 months and people are being urged to host their own tea party.

Unity Church in Chorley New Road, Heaton, held an event on Saturday in aid of the appeal, alongside its summer fair.

Visitors to the tea party enjoyed a range of refreshments and the day raised more than £100 for the appeal.

Flora Standish, secretary of the church, said: “It was very busy all afternoon. The weather was nice and everyone seemed to have a good time. I am very pleased that we managed to raise £100.

“Every family is affected by cancer in some way or knows someone with the condition. It affects everybody and in turn the community.

“Anything that helps people with cancer is a good thing and to get more nurses would be wonderful.

“I would urge other people to hold their own Blooming Great Tea Party.”

Hannah Taylor, the local community fundraiser for Marie Curie, said: “You can support the appeal by holding a Blooming Great Tea Party of your own or going along to someone else’s.

“They really are fun events which will help us to raise the money we need to help more people in Bolton.”

Everyone can join Marie Curie Cancer Care’s Blooming Great Tea Party: To hold your own party contact 08700 340 040 or visit mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty.

Let us know about your event by contacting 01204 537203.