WARRINGTON care groups rallied together to raise awareness for Carers' Week, last Thursday in a marquee in the town centre.

The event was held in the busy shopping area of Old Fish Market and organised by Warrington Carers' Centre, which provides information and support to carers.

Wyn Higham, chairman of Warrington Carers' Centre, said: "The aim is to get carers to recognise themselves as carers. These are people who are looking after other people who are ill through physical disability or mental health issues.

"Many are working 50 hours-plus for no pay at all and do it because it's someone they care for.

"There are even young children looking after a mum, a dad or a sibling."

In the marquee were care groups from all over Warrington, such as Warrington Stroke Club, MENCAP, social services and Warrington Primary Care Trust.

Jenny Readman, manager of Warrington Carers' Centre, said: "This is to raise the awareness of carers about what is available to them."

A common concern at the centre is that carers often do not recognise the pressures they are under and the event was to let them know there is help out there.

Ms Readman said: "The reception has been very good and we've been very busy."

Ms Higham added: "We'll more than likely do this again next year but we're only at the end of a telephone if anyone can't get into the care centre and needs to contact us."

To get in touch with the Warrington Carers' Centre, call 644216.