EACH day this week, the Worcester News is looking at how Macmillan Cancer Support helps people in the county.

It costs Macmillan Cancer Support more than £750,000 a year to run its services in the county, and with 52,000 people expected to be living with cancer in less than 12 years, the need for volunteers is high.

Whether it’s organising or helping at a local fundraising event, taking part in a collection or, giving a few hours each week at one of the four Worcestershire Macmillan Cancer Support Information and Support Centres; Macmillan volunteers always make a meaningful difference.

After having cancer himself and losing family and a close friend to cancer, Barrie Key decided to become a Macmillan volunteer three years ago.

Last year he gave his spare time to help Sainsbury’s in Kidderminster raise more than £14,000 for the charity.

Sarah Diston, regional fundraising manager for Worcestershire, said: ‘Barrie is one of many volunteers who support Macmillan across the county and their support is invaluable.”

“Barrie supports me in so many ways and that is one of the benefits of volunteering for Macmillan, there so many different things people can do to support the work we do.

“It isn’t always about fundraising either.

“Raising awareness of our services and how we can help people across Worcestershire is just as important.

Barrie said: ‘I wanted to help others affected by cancer and I chose to be a Macmillan volunteer because the charity offers support to people from diagnosis, not just end of life.

“I really enjoy fundraising for Macmillan.

“I hear so many stories from families and friends who are living with cancer and they are full of praise for the Macmillan team and the support they have received.

“I’ve had many memorable moments volunteering for Macmillan.

“My most memorable time was during a collection in a shopping centre. A group of teenagers searched their pockets and purses and put all the money they had, into the collection bucket.

“They are the future and their generosity told me our hope for continued support is strong.”

Sarah added: ‘Volunteering for Macmillan makes a real difference to people affected by cancer and can also be hugely rewarding for those giving their spare time to help.

“We want all our volunteers to make the most of their time with us, which is why we also provide various learning and development opportunities. It’s also a great way to meet and make new friends.

“Whether it’s minutes or months, hours or days, the time you give really does matter.”

If you would like to find out how you can get involved contact Sarah Diston sdiston@macmillan.org.uk or call 07791 369364.