The charity needs volunteers to encourage people in Cumnock and Doon Valley to give a donation and wear a daffodil pin. The money raised from the Great Daffodil Appeal will help Marie Curie Nurses care for people with a terminal illness in their own home. So they can spend more time with the people they love.

Elma Mitchell local Community Fundraiser for Marie Curie (pictured) said: “The Great Daffodil Appeal makes it possible for Marie Curie Nurses to provide free hands-on care for people with a terminal illness.

"Every March millions of people across the UK show their support for our work by simply giving a donation to wear a daffodil pin. We need as many people as possible to donate their time to help us make sure everyone is wearing a daffodil pin, so we can continue providing this vital care for local people.” Local volunteer Cathy Costello also added : “I have collected for the Great Daffodil Appeal for 15 years now and really enjoy it and feel like we are making a difference and giving something back.

"So many people approach you to tell you about the support they’ve received from Marie Curie Nurses and the difference it has made to them and their loved ones. It is a great feeling when we count up all the coins at the end of the day and see how much we’ve raised – knowing that every £20 raised will pay for one more hour of nursing care in East Ayrshire .” To volunteer to collect for Marie Curie and support the Great Daffodil Appeal visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil, or call 01292 478328.