AN Okehampton women will be joining thousands of people across the UK who are taking part in the 'Blooming Great Tea Party' in aid of charity.

Money raised by the tea parties provide more than 14,000 hours of nursing care to people terminally ill with cancer and other illnesses.

This year, care home manager from Kent House Residential Home, Julie Smith, will be participating in the fundraising event, holding a tea party at the home.

Mrs Smith said: 'Both my in-laws died of cancer and having worked for Marie Curie Cancer Care I know the good work and dedication that is involved.

'Marie Curie Cancer Care is a wonderful charity.'

Everyone is welcome to attend the party which will be on Saturday, June 27 from 2pm onwards at Kent House.

The party will be the theme from Mad Hatter with lots of tea, cake and bric-a-brac stalls to browse among.

All funds raised will go towards Marie Curie Cancer Care, which enables nurses to support families through a very difficult time.

The Blooming Great Tea Party month runs from Friday, June 12 to Sunday, July 12.

Anyone who wants to take part and hold a Blooming Great Tea Party this summer and help provide more nursing care for people in the Okehampton and surrounding area, can phone 08700 340040 or visit http://www.mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty">www.mariecurie.org.uk/teaparty