Law Society president Ian Huddleston announced the partnership alongside Marie Curie Hospice lead nurse Cindy Anderson and Ciara Gallagher, head of regional partnerships & NI fundraising.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Huddleston said: “The Law Society of Northern Ireland looks forward to supporting the invaluable work and services which Marie Curie provide through awareness and fund raising initiatives with our members in 2017.”

Ms Gallagher added: “Marie Curie is absolutely delighted to have been chosen as the Law Society of Northern Ireland’s Charity of the year.

“All the funds raised from the partnership will help Marie Curie Nurses provide high quality care to people with terminal illnesses in their own homes right across Northern Ireland or in the charity’s hospice in Belfast. Marie Curie services are always free of charge for all patients and their families. This is only made possible thanks to the generous donations of our supporters.”

Marie Curie provide care and support for around 2,500 people living with a terminal illness in Northern Ireland each year.

There are more than 120 Marie Curie Nurses working in Northern Ireland, caring for around 2,000 terminally ill people and their families in their homes each year.

The Marie Curie Hospice in Belfast cares for around 500 people each year, including people staying in the hospice and those using day hospice services.