CHARITY workers in Worcestershire are urging county residents to help in ensuring the success of a fund-raising appeal to help cancer sufferers.

Staff at Marie Curie Cancer Care's fund-raising office in Worcestershire are busy planning their 2005 Daffodil Appeal.

During February and March next year, the charity will hold collections throughout Worcestershire, Herefordshire and Gloucestershire during the appeal.

The money raised will provide free, high-quality nursing to allow terminally ill people the choice to spend their last days at home with their families.

"We are really looking forward to the 2005 Daffodil Appeal," said Sian Millard, community fund-raising co-ordinator for the three counties.

"However, we desperately require help from dedicated, reliable and friendly members of the public willing to give up a few hours of their time to act as volunteers during this hectic period.

"We are hoping to raise a great deal of money, which will enable us to continue the charity's excellent work throughout the community.

"I think that next year's appeal provides a great opportunity for anyone who would like to get involved with voluntary charitable work, meet new people and have great fun."

The charity aims to raise £50,000 to fund home respite care for terminally ill patients in and around Worcestershire.

The target figure equates to over 3,300 hours of professional, highly skilled nursing services.

For more information or to volunteer your time, call Sian on 01905 427531.