A NEW project providing support for carers got a regal seal of approval this week when HRH The Princess Royal dropped in to the Fylde coast to attend the official launch.

The Princess - patron of the national Princess Royal Trust for Carers - officially opened the Radio Wave-backed Blackpool Care Adoption scheme during a ceremony at the resort's Tower Ballroom on Thursday, April 22.

The scheme hopes to raise £96,500 to build a specialist outreach drop-in centre to cater for the area's 15,443 carers who - in many cases - have to fit around 50 hours a week into looking after elderly, physically or mentally ill charges.

Speaking at the launch the Princess Royal said: "One thing we know is that anybody can become a carer.

"This is not an easy subject to fit into a convenient slot.

"It could be a parent of a disabled child or a relative of someone who has been in a traumatic accident.

"Every situation is different and we cannot stick a label on these people.

"We need people to know if there are places they can go to where people understand what they are going through and can give them information and answers to the questions they have."

Radio Wave - which broadcasts to more than 69,000 listeners across Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre - have already managed to raise £21,574 by staging events such as a 'bring a pound to work day', local hero awards and a black and white ball.

Station Director, Mel Booth said: "With more than 15,400 carers living in the area a dedicated Carers' Centre is well overdue on the Fylde coast.

"It's not just about giving people somewhere to go and relax but being able to provide emotional support and practical advice to those providing care for relatives and friends."