JUSTIN Tomlinson joined forces with a star of stage and screen last week to give his backing to Marie Curie's 'Make Every Daffodil Count' campaign.

The North Swindon MP met with Jason Isaacs, better known for his role as Lucius Malfoy in the Harry Potter films, and two of the hardworking nurses from the charity which provides care and support to people living with a terminal illness.

The event in Westminster was arranged to celebrate the launch of the Great Daffodil Appeal, Marie Curie’s biggest annual fundraising campaign.

In pledging his support to the vital fundraising drive, Justin is encouraging local people to help the charity raise more money than ever before by simply giving a donation and wearing a Marie Curie daffodil pin.

The pins will be available from volunteers across the country, or Superdrug, Spar and Poundworld stores, as well as Wyevale Garden Centres, during March.

Morrison’s supermarkets will also be holding fundraising collections for three days from March 10.

“Marie Curie does amazing work to support people with terminal illnesses as well as their families," said Justin.

"As we enter into spring, I can think of no way more fitting to welcome the new season than wearing a daffodil and showing support for this incredible organisation.”

Film star and long-time Marie Curie supporter, Jason Isaacs, said: “I’m delighted to be here with Justin to help launch Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal.

“Please help us make every daffodil count. The charity is also calling on more people to help with local collections. Volunteering a couple hours of your time will make such a difference to the care and support that Marie Curie can provide."

Scott Sinclair, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Marie Curie, said: “Having the support of Justin and Jason makes a huge difference to Marie Curie in terms of raising awareness about what we do and helping us to reach more people who need us.

“One in four people miss out on the care and support they need at the end of life. We don’t think that's good enough. That’s why we are asking MPs to help support our annual Marie Curie fundraising appeal to help enable us to reach more people affected by terminal illness.”

“Our services rely on charitable donations, so I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who gives a donation and wears a daffodil pin during March.”

Sally Monger Godfrey, Marie Curie Nurse and face of The Great Daffodil Appeal, added: “Make every daffodil count. Your daffodil means I can care for someone in their own home, and be there for them through the night. You make a difference to people at the end of their lives, which in many ways is just as important as at the start.”

For more information about volunteering for a local collection call 0800 304 7025 or visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil