EASTWOOD MSP Jackson Carlaw was on yellow alert as he pledged his support to an annual fundraising drive.

The Conservative politician was among a number of MSPs from across the party divide who joined forces at Holyrood to raise awareness of the Great Daffodil Appeal.

Staged every March by terminal illness charity Marie Curie, the appeal sees iconic daffodil pins being sold in return for donations.

Mr Carlaw is encouraging East Renfrewshire residents to buy one of the daffodil pins and is also urging people to contact the charity if they are willing to help by collecting donations.

A spokesperson for Marie Curie said: “Whatever your story, donating and wearing a daffodil pin during March unites you with millions of others to help make sure all dying people get the care and support they deserve.

“Volunteering just two hours of your time at a collection near you means you are raising money to help make sure more dying people get the care and support they need at the end of their lives.

“What’s more, collecting is lots of fun, you can do it on your own or with friends and Marie Curie will support you from the moment you sign up.”

Marie Curie employs more than 2,700 nurses, doctors and other healthcare professionals and, with its nine hospices around the UK, is the largest provider of hospice beds outside the NHS.

Last year, the Great Daffodil Appeal raised £6million for the charity and, since the annual campaign began in 1986, a total of £114m has been generated.

Daffodil pins are available from volunteers on local high streets, Marie Curie shops and various stores, including Superdrug.

To volunteer for Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal and give out the charity’s pins in return for donations, visit mariecurie.org.uk/collect or call the freephone line on 0800 304 7025.