OUTSTANDING work by parents, grandparents and other carers is to be recognised at an awards ceremony this week.

The Derwentside Achievement and Volunteer Awards, known as the Star Awards, will take place at Stanley Central Club on Friday, recognising contributions by people in the community and childcare.

Honours will be presented in ten categories, including best parent or carer, best grandparent and best lifelong learner.

Derwentside Council for Voluntary Service (CVS) and Sure Start Children's Centres in Derwentside are behind the annual event, which is in its second year.

Derwentside CVS chief officer Janice Docherty said: "This is a night to celebrate the achievement of adult learning, volunteers and Sure Start parents throughout the district, many of whom have had to overcome personal barriers to attain success."

Linda Frazer, of Stanley Sure Start, said: "This is a good way to celebrate the good work of mams, dads, carers and parents-to-be, and to recognise the commitment they have shown in raising their children."

Fiona Malyan, the manager of Sure Start Children's Centres across Derwentside, said: "We are very privileged to work with so many people who work so hard to improve their communities."