THE Bolton News today joins forces with Marie Curie Cancer Care to launch a £200,000 fundraising appeal.

Over the next 12 months, we will be with the charity every step of the way.

If the target is reached, NHS Bolton will match it and the cash will be used to double the number of nursing hours Marie Curie provides.

It will mean more people with cancer and other terminal illnesses can have the choice to be cared for and allowed to die in their own homes Marie Curie nurse Sue Irwin, who is 42 and from Bolton, has been chosen as the face of the appeal. She said: “Most people would want to die at home if they were terminally ill but only about a quarter of people get that wish. Bolton Marie Curie Nurses want to help more people who live locally, but we can only do it with the public’s support.

“Every single donation, big or small, will help nurses like me care for more people in Bolton.”

If the target is reached, Bolton will lead the way nationally on the charity’s pledge to double the number of nursing hours it provides — and therefore reaching more patients — by 2013.

The Marie Curie Nurses Appeal campaign will be officially launched at an event in Victoria Square today.

Hannah Taylor, Marie Curie’s community fundraiser who covers Bolton, said: “Anyone can help us. And we would be particularly delighted to talk to any companies in Bolton about becoming their adopted charity of the year.

“You can also support the appeal by taking part in a wide range of fundraising events throughout the year.

“We would welcome your help whatever you want to do to support the appeal and help us raise £200,000 this year, with your support we can ensure Bolton has all the Sues it needs.”

Ian Savage, Editor-in-Chief of The Bolton News, said: “Marie Curie nurses do a wonderful and often emotionally challenging job. Their work allows people with terrible illnesses to die with dignity and in the comfort and familiar surroundings of their own homes.

“We are happy to be supporting this bid to raise £200,000, and I feel sure the generous people of Bolton will do us proud.”