End-of-life charity Marie Curie is appealing for volunteers in Somerset.

The charity looks to expand the Marie Curie Companions service, which offers emotional support for patients and their families, previously only in Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton, to community hospitals across Somerset.

The expansion comes after a new agreement with Somerset NHS Foundation Trust.

New locations will include hospitals across Bridgwater, Burnham, Crewkerne, Frome, Minehead, South Petherton, West Mendip, Williton and Wincanton.

Marie Curie associate director Karen Burfitt said: "Being admitted to hospital can be a scary and overwhelming experience, for both patients and their families, especially for those nearing the end of life.

"Not only is this a great comfort to the patient, but also to families who can arrange for a Companion to visit their loved one at a time when, for whatever reason, they cannot be there themselves."

Ward Sister Vicki Burgess said: "We’re so excited that the service is now being extended to our community hospitals, which will mean even more patients will be able to benefit from this wonderful care."

For those interested in volunteering, please contact Julie Draper, Marie Curie volunteer coordinator by emailing Julie.draper@mariecurie.org.uk or calling 07921278893.