THE Marie Curie Nurses Appeal has raised more than £40,000 in just three months — keeping it on track to hit £200,000 by the end of the year-long campaign.

The charity launched its bid, with the backing of The Bolton News, at the end of June and by the end of last month, a quarter of the way through the campaign, had reached a total of £42,000.

All the money raised by the appeal will fund free nursing care for terminally-ill people in Bolton, enabling them to die at home.

Hannah Taylor, community fundraiser, said: “We’re delighted to report our Bolton appeal has now raised £42,000.

“We’d like to thank everyone who has supported the appeal so far. We’ve still got a long way to go but we’ve got lots planned in the run-up to Christmas. We still need to raise £158,000 so need everyone to get behind the appeal.”

The money has been raised through donations, fundraisers and sponsored events and there will be an update on the appeal’s progress each month.

The latest focus is on getting more companies involved in the appeal.

Premex, in Futura Park, Middlebrook, has adopted the appeal as its charity of the year.

The firm, which provides medico-legal reports to law and insurance firms, has held fundraisers including dress down days and a Blooming Great Tea Party.

It will hold its Halloween charity day tomorrow in aid of the campaign, with fancy dress, competitions and a quiz.

Katie Trussell, marketing assistant, said: “We encourage other organisations to contribute to the appeal, it’s a fantastic cause and very rewarding for employees to get involved.”

To find out more visit theboltonnews.co.uk/mariecurie or contact 0161 255 2810. Let us know about your fundraising on 01204 537203.