MARIE Curie and TV host Mel Giedroyc are calling on people across the Forth Valley to hold a Blooming Great Tea Party in aid of the charity.

This summer, Marie Curie is encouraging people to get together with friends, family or colleagues to host a tea party, bake sale or special tea break to raise funds.

The money raised will help Marie Curie provide vital care and support for people living with a terminal illness, and their families.

This year, Mel Giedroyc is lending her support to the campaign, and said: "I’m supporting the Blooming Great Tea Party because it is the most sublimely joyous, wondrous event that takes place in June for the best cause.

"My top tip would be to invite more people than you can possibly fit into your house. They will squeeze, don’t worry. For cake, people will do anything."

A group of events management students at the Stirling Campus of Forth Valley College were amongst the first to hold a Blooming Great Tea Party this year.

They raised £136 holding a bake sale for their fellow students and tutors in the foyer of the campus.

Jennifer Gale, community fundraiser, Marie Curie, said: "It was fantastic to hear that a Marie Curie Blooming Great Tea Party has already been held in Stirling, and a big thank you to everyone involved in making it a success.

"Holding a Blooming Great Tea Party really is a piece of cake. Just pick a date, send out some invites and simply raise a cuppa this June.

"You can choose to make everything yourself or pop to the shops for some tasty treats, as long as you price each slice or put a donation box by the front door you’ll be sure to raise funds to help Marie Curie support people when they need it most."

Last year, the Blooming Great Tea Party raised over £500,000 to help Marie Curie be there when it matters most.

To find out more and receive your free fundraising pack, call 0800 716 146 or visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty