East Renfrewshire’s MP joined forces with actress Jane Horrocks to support the launch of a leading charity’s annual appeal.

Kirsten Oswald met up with the Absolutely Fabulous and Little Voice star at an event in Westminster to highlight the Great Daffodil Appeal, in aid of the Marie Curie charity.

Held every March, it involves people making a donation in return for a daffodil pin, with the proceeds being used to support people affected by terminal illness, as well as those dealing with dying and bereavement.

Ms Oswald told the Barrhead News: “I’m proud to be supporting the Great Daffodil Appeal because everyone should have the best possible care and support at the end of life and Marie Curie is on a mission to deliver that.

“Donating to Marie Curie means that their nurses and bereavement counsellors can continue to deliver much-needed support not only to those at the end of life but to those left behind.”

Ms Horrocks has been a Marie Curie supporter since 2010.

She said: “I have seen first-hand the wonderful work they do to support people at the end of life.

“Nobody expects to be diagnosed with a terminal illness but, with their expertise and understanding, Marie Curie nurses are able to bring a sense of calm to what can otherwise be a difficult time.

“That’s why I’m encouraging everyone to get themselves a daffodil pin and support Marie Curie during the much-loved Great Daffodil Appeal.”

Ruth Driscoll, head of policy and public affairs at Marie Curie, added: “Demand for palliative and end-of-life care is rising rapidly and we expect this trend to continue as the population ages.

“The services that Marie Curie provide for people at the end of life are needed today more than ever and it is great to have the backing of Kirsten Oswald for the Great Daffodil Appeal.

“As people are living longer with multiple and complex health conditions, it is becoming more challenging to ensure that every person at the end of life receives the care and support they need.”