CARERS in east Durham are in for a well-earned rest next month.

As part of National Carers Week, Easington Carers Collaborative is holding a celebration event on Thursday, June 16, at Shotton Hall Banqueting Suite in Peterlee.

There will be a number of activities for carers to enjoy between 10am and 3pm, including belly dancing, tai chi sessions, holistic therapies and makeovers.

Lunch will be provided and entertainment will be by the New Horizons Big Band.

The number of people providing unpaid care in the district is nearly 12,000, which is the third highest in England and Wales and the highest in the North-East region.

Liz Allan, patient and public involvement co-ordinator, said: "Anyone with caring responsibilities will be more than welcome at our event.

"It's an ideal opportunity to meet with people in a similar situation, find out more about the local support services available to them and to give themselves a break.''

She said: "The event is also a way of saying thank you to carers. This will give them a rare opportunity to relax by indulging in a beauty makeover or holistic therapy while listening to excellent big band sounds."

The event is free to carers. For information call Karen Smith on 0191-587 6001. Transport can be provided to and from the event.