Local MSP Colin Smyth is encouraging members of the community in Wigtownshire to get involved in Marie Curie’s Newton Stewart Fundraising Group.

The call comes as the Group are seeking new volunteers to support the work being carried out right across the region.

Nearly 1,500 people require some form of palliative care every year in Dumfries and Galloway. Over the last year Marie Curie has had 31 active nurses in NHS Dumfries and Galloway, providing care in the community and supporting people living with a terminal illness.

The Newton Stewart Fundraising Group has played a vital role in raising funds to carry out this great work. As well as helping raise funds members of the fundraising group act as ambassadors to help spread the word about the fantastic work Marie Curie are doing locally.

Colin Smyth MSP said, “I have seen first hand, not only the amazing efforts of Marie Curie fundraisers across Dumfries and Galloway but also the work that Marie Curie are able to do in our area as a result of that fundraising. It is no exaggeration to say that just a couple of hours raising funds can make a huge difference to the quality of life for someone living with a terminal illness and their families. I would urge anyone with a little spare time to get involved with the Newton Fundraising Group and help ensure that more people in the area are able to benefit from the care and support Marie Curie provide.”

Georgia Ramplin, Community Fundraiser for Dumfries and Galloway said, “Firstly, huge thank you to the previous Marie Curie Fundraising Group based in Newton Stewart. The support and funds raised over the years has been incredible – we’d like to keep this support going, so if you’re interested in getting involved in the Newton Stewart Fundraising Group, please do get in touch with me. It’s an easy way to show your support and a very rewarding thing to be involved with in your local community.”

Anyone who is interested in joining the Newton Stewart Fundraising Group can get in touch with Georgia Ramplin on 07730619485 or Georgia.ramplin@mariecurie.org.uk .