Central’s Sue Harris and Willie Donnelly are no strangers to the world of volunteering.

The duo has worked alongside each other in a volunteer capacity off and on over the past 35 to 40 years and are doing it all over again this month, as they help prepare for the Cancer Society’s annual Daffodil Day.

They both started supporting the cause in 2009.

There has been a lot to pack into their schedule this time round, calling around about 130 other volunteers who have agreed to collect for the organisation’s annual appeal day in Alexandra, Clyde and the Manuherikia Valley on August 30.

Many will be based at various collection stations, while others will act as street walkers who visit businesses with bunches of daffodils.

Collectors in Clyde will visit premises in the evening.

Willie said the support each year from those who want to assist and those who want to donate had been great, including Alexandra and Omakau golf club members and Mitre 10.

The support from local businesses meant the Cancer Society did not need to purchase prizes for its popular raffles.

“They have been so, so good.”

Willie and Sue, who are both cancer survivors, agree that the organisation plays a huge role in so many people’s lives.

Money raised goes towards supporting people in their homes and helping them through their cancer journey.

Street collectors have also become an outlet for people to talk about a loved one they have lost to cancer, particularly men who have lost their wife, Willie said.

As the annual appeal day nears, Sue and Willie wish to thank the many people across the wider community who have given their time or donated to the cause.

Read more: 'Incredible' volunteer response for Daffodil Day

Listen to more about the appeal on The Outlet podcast.