A CARERS' support group in Whalley is trying to raise awareness of the hard work carried out by carers throughout the region.

National Carers' Week runs from June 9-15 and the carers' support group, based at Whalley village hall, is planning to publicise this work with a special party.

The details for the Tea and Coffee Take a Break Party have not been finalised but will be published in local hospitals and health centres.

Similar events are to be held throughout the country with support from the Carers' National Association.

The Whalley group is also working to encourage carers to register with their GP in order to benefit from help available to them.

Christina Chew, a member of the group, said: "Carers are men and women who look after elderly or disabled relatives or friends. This help means that these relatives can still live in their own homes.

"Our support group has been running since 1995 and referrals will be accepted from any area for clients looking after any disability, mental or physical.

"If anyone knows anyone they feel is a carer they should take the opportunity to advise them on registering themselves to their GP."

Group meetings are every first and third Wednesday in the month from 1.30-3pm.