MARIE Curie and television presenter and actress Mel Giedroyc are calling on the people of Oldham to throw a Blooming Great Tea Party this month.

They say that people who organise them will be helping provide vital care and support for people living with a terminal illness and their families.

Alocal Marie Curie "tea party expert"’ will send interested people a pack with tips, tricks and fundraising materials to make sure the event is a success.

The charity provides nursing care to people with terminal illnesses in their own homes across Oldham and also runs a free and confidential support line for everyone affected by terminal illness. Marie Curie has recently added clinical support to the service, which means anyone, across the country, can speak to a Marie Curie nurse.

Mel, who is fronting this year’s campaign, said: “Marie Curie’s wonderful nurses and support line heroes need you to bake up a storm this June and raise a few quid at a Blooming Great Tea Party. I know that people love a good natter over a cup of tea, who doesn’t? That’s why I’m supporting Marie Curie’s campaign.

“It’s a simple way to get together with your chums and raise money for people with a terminal illness. It’s a vital cause, so whether you invite the town over for a croquembouche or catch up with pals over a pack of party rings, Marie Curie needs you to raise a cuppa and some money this June.

“If you’d rather fake it than bake it, here’s my tip. Get yourself a shop bought Victoria sponge, shake it around the shopping bag to ‘distress’ the edges, sprinkle it with icing sugar, dot some fresh strawberries on top and pass it off as your own. There you go chums, mum’s the word. Keep that one to yourself.”

Lynn Partridge, community fndraiser for Oldham at Marie Curie, said: “Throwing a Blooming Great Tea Party is a piece of cake and tonnes of fun. Whether you’re Team Baker and dazzling guests with you own homemade creation, or part of Team Faker and buying in your favourite treats, the money you raise will help us reach more of the people in Oldham who need us. And when you sign up, I’ll be on hand to help with all the brewing advice, icing tips and fundraising know how you need.”

To receive your fundraising pack, sign up today at www.mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty / 0800 716 146 and pledge your allegiance to #TeamBaker or #TeamFaker.