MIDDLESBROUGH Mayor Ray Mallon has spent this week paying tribute to the role that carers are playing in society

He has taken part in a week-long programme of events in the town to highlight the growing opportunities available to them for learning, training and personal development.

It is estimated that one in five people take on caring responsibilities at some time in their lives, and that there could be 20,000 people of all ages in Middlesbrough caring for a dependent relative or friend.

Mr Mallon said: "National figures show carers save the public purse a staggering amount, something like £50bn a year.

"What is perhaps more important is what they put into the community, by adding great value to the care process and by helping define and meet the needs of some of the most vulnerable people in society."

Yesterday, Mr Mallon also attended an event for young carers at the Middlesbrough Teaching and Learning Centre.

Executive member for social care at Middlesbrough Council Councillor Brenda Thompson said: "By virtue of the work they do, carers are too often unsung heroes. Carers' Week is an opportunity to highlight their contribution.

"Without them, the country would grind to a halt."