Research shows that 75 per cent of people seriously ill with cancer would prefer to be cared for at home.

Every year, Marie Curie Nurses make that wish possible for thousands of cancer patients in cities, towns and villages across the UK.

They now care for around 50 per cent of all cancer patients who die at home, including many who live on the Fylde Coast.

They work through the night or during the day to provide care for patients in the comfortable and familiar surroundings of their own home.

They are also there for families and carers, providing practical and emotional support at what can be an exhausting time.

It's always free of charge to patients and carers, although some, such as Valerie Hadwin, of Bispham, who lost her husband Derek to cancer, choose to support the charity in practical ways, helping raise funds to ensure the good work goes on, after the death of a loved one.

Valerie empties all the collection boxes in Blackpool, helps on the Daffodil Appeal and takes part in events on the Fylde by way of thanks.

Derek was 62 went he passed away in the comfort of his own home. Valerie admits: "I would not have had a night's sleep without the help of the Marie Curie nurses. I would have had to look after Derek on my own if it hadn't been for them. To say they are angels probably isn't enough."

However, as the charity celebrates its 60th anniversary next Saturday, it faces a crisis. A fundraising dance, planned for 12 months, has been cancelled in Blackpool, next Friday, because of poor ticket sales.

Money-raising initiatives across the county, from dances to walks to sponsored abseils, have also been called off because of lack of take-up.

For the first time ever, this year's sponsored Marie Curie Morecambe Bay walk failed to muster sufficient numbers.

Fundraiser Lyn Fenton, who covers the Fylde, explains: "It's the current situation. Everything is being cut back. Fuel prices have gone up so people are also staying at home. Usually we get about 400 for the Morecambe Bay walk. This year there were very few. The rest is just down to people tightening their belt. But it's costing us dear. And this area isn't faring as badly as some other parts of the country."

Now she's hoping big-hearted Blackpool may work its magic. A 5k sponsored walk starts at 1pm today on the Promenade opposite the Big Blue Hotel.

"We've only got about 30 walkers but hope locals and visitors will give generously," adds Lyn.

The cash crisis comes at a time when the charity celebrates its 60th anniversary, sharing a birthday with the National Health Service.

It costs £20 an hour to provide the service: which is free to patients and carers. Terminally ill and other cancer patients get frontline nursing care in their own homes, which also gives their carers a break from round the clock care.