VOLUNTEER fundraisers in Newton Abbot have helped raise more than £200,000 to help people living with a terminal illness.

The Newton Abbot & District Fundraising Group is celebrating the major milestone after raising the money for charity Marie Curie since it formed in 2012.

Over the last 14 years, the group has become a familiar sight across Newton Abbot and surrounding area, organising everything from community events and book stalls to supermarket collections.

The milestone reflects the generosity of local communities and the commitment of a small team of volunteers who have dedicated thousands of hours to supporting the charity and raising awareness of the importance of end-of-life care.

Mary Bartlett, a founding member of the Newton Abbot group, first became involved with Marie Curie after her own family experienced the charity’s support.

She said: ‘When my daughter, who had Down syndrome, was near the end of her life, we took advantage of the services of a Marie Curie nurse to assist with her care.

‘My involvement with Marie Curie has grown from that point.’

Today, Mary continues to support the group and is one of several founding members who remain actively involved more than a decade on from its formation.

For fellow founding member Karen Santillo, volunteering with Marie Curie combines a lifelong passion for healthcare with the desire to make a practical difference in the community.

Karen said: ‘During my long career in healthcare, I've seen first-hand the importance of good end of life care.

‘By giving my time to Marie Curie, I’m helping more people benefit from the compassionate support they need.’

The Newton Abbot and District Fundraising Group has continued to evolve over the years, welcoming new supporters while maintaining the community spirit that has underpinned its success.

Last year alone, 964 people across Devon received care through the Care at Home service, including 104 people in Teignbridge.

The service enables people living with a terminal illness to receive compassionate, expert care in their own homes, while also providing reassurance and support to those closest to them.

Lauren Derbyshire, Marie Curie Community Fundraiser, said the achievement belonged not only to the volunteers in the group but also to the wider community.

Lauren said: ‘The achievement of this group is phenomenal. Over the past 14 years they have built a legacy that has made a real and lasting difference to families.

‘We are incredibly grateful to the many volunteers, community groups, local businesses and organisations that have supported Marie Curie and the Newton Abbot Fundraising Group over the years.

‘While the group does amazing work, it simply wouldn’t be possible without the army of supporters behind them, the people willing to hold a collection bucket, bake a batch of scones, donate raffle prizes, support an event or lend a helping hand whenever it's needed.

‘Their generosity, kindness and community spirit are what make achievements like this possible.’

As a charity, Marie Curie relies heavily on public donations and fundraising.

Lauren added: ‘Reaching £200,000 is an incredible achievement, but we know there is still so much more we can do.

‘The group has achieved so much because ordinary people chose to give a little of their time. We hope this milestone inspires others to join us and become part of the next chapter of the story.’