Marie Curie and TV host Mel Giedroyc are calling on people in Pembrokeshire to hold a Blooming Great Tea Party in aid of the charity this June.

From June 23-25, 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, saying: “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.

“I will bake some refrigerator cake. My mum’s recipe - it’s delicious. I’ll bake some bread and I will bake for my gluten/dairy intolerant friend some coeliac muffins.”

Also backing this year’s appeal, Gwili Railway helped to launch West Wales’ Blooming Great Tea Party campaign on board their steam engine. On a journey through the beautiful Gwili Valley, members of the local fundraising group celebrated during one of the railway’s lunchtime cream tea afternoons which the charity are hoping will be replicated throughout the county in homes, gardens, offices or anywhere else.

Chris Roberts, community fundraiser, Marie Curie, said: “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 between June 23-25. 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.