BOLTON’S Marie Curie Nurses Appeal is on track to hit its £200,000 target after raising an incredible £30,000 in the first two months of the year-long campaign.

The charity launched the bid, with the support of The Bolton News, at the end of June, and by the end of last month the fund stood at £30,000.

All the money raised will fund free nursing care for terminally-ill people in the town.

The work of Bolton’s 21 Marie Curie nurses enables people to choose to die in their own homes.

Hannah Taylor, community fundraiser for Bolton, said: “We’re delighted with this amount, especially as we launched over the quieter summer months.

“We’ve still got a long way to go, but it’s a great start and we’d like to thank everyone for their support so far.

“We still need to raise £170,000, so we need everyone in Bolton to get behind the appeal and do something to support their Marie Curie nurses.”

The £30,000 has been raised in a variety of ways, including donations, fundraisers and sponsored events.

There will be monthly progress reports on the total throughout the campaign.

The latest push is to find volunteers to sign up for A Chance To Dance, which takes place at The Midland Hotel in Manchester on Sunday, November 15. Participants will take on a one-day challenge to complete three workshops in ballroom, Latin and modern dance, before learning a routine to perform en masse.

Ms Taylor said: “If you’re going to be watching the new series of Strictly Come Dancing, why not do your bit for our appeal and join us for A Chance To Dance?

“Two left feet or twinkle toes, it doesn’t matter. Whatever your experience it’s all about trying something different while raising funds.

“Please join us and help us reach that £200,000 target.”

The registration fee is £15 and dancers will be asked to raise £100 in sponsorship.

To sign up, contact Hannah Taylor on 0161 255 2810, 07798 638127 or email hannah.taylor@ mariecurie. org.uk To find out more about the Marie Curie Nurses Appeal visit theboltonnews.co.uk/ marie curie.

cherry.thomas@ theboltonnews.co.uk