MARIE Curie’s Kirkbymoorside & District Fundraising Group has celebrated its 20th birthday.

The group marked the anniversary with an afternoon tea party to thank local people and businesses for their efforts in helping to raise more than £450,000 since the group launched in 1999.

The total so far has helped fund more than 22,500 hours of nursing care.

In addition to helping with the charity’s annual fundraising campaigns such as the Great Daffodil Appeal and the Blooming Great Tea Party, the group has staged a series of events over the years, including war weekend dances, sponsored Farndale daffodil walk, memorial tractor run, Ryedale Garage coffee day, Sleightholmedale open gardens and Welburn Manor car boot sale.

The group, which includes more than 20 members and volunteers, was set up by June Cook, Pam Dixey, Joyce Wood, Jean Horne and Jill O’Brian following a presentation given by a Scarborough-based fundraiser.

The first event the group attended was a Kirkbymoorside gala where they ran a biscuit stall and raised over £100 by selling packs of biscuits. Within the first month, more volunteers came forward to join the group.

June Cook, the current chairman of the group, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity of members of the community and local businesses who have supported us and donated generously year on year, and would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone.”

Emma Williams, Marie Curie community fundraiser, said: “They are an exceptional bunch of enthusiastic individuals who have worked tirelessly for many years.

“All the members work together so well and have really embraced becoming fundraising volunteers.

“Each member is passionate about the charity which fuels their energy and inspires them to raise as much money as they possibility can.”

Marie Curie relies on the support of local people and is calling on more individuals to get involved so the charity can continue caring for people living with a terminal illness.

For more information about supporting the charity, phone Emma on 01904 755260, email emma.williams@mariecurie.org.uk or visit mariecurie.org.uk