A SERIES of events are planned in Newton Aycliffe to mark national carers' week.

The focus of this year's week, which takes place from Monday to Saturday, June 15, is on opportunities for carers.

Sue Orton, manager of the Princess Royal Trust Sedgefield Locality Carers' Centre, said that almost half of all carers have had to give up work.

She said: "Most people want to carry on working when they become a carer, but unfortunately in most cases the support systems are not there.

"Both employers and statutory agencies have a part to play in this. A simple thing like flexible working hours could make a huge difference to carers because last minute emergencies can mean that the carer may be late for work.

"Also many health professionals and support services work a nine-to-five day, so carers need more time off for appointments."

To celebrate carers' week, the centre is holding a balloon race and tombola in Newton Aycliffe town centre on Tuesday.

There is a a pamper session on Thursday, with complementary therapy taster sessions.

Next Friday, a carers' event is being held at Spennymoor Leisure Centre, and will feature speakers from Unison, Social Services, The Learning Shop and Fit for Life.

There will also be information stands from a several organisations offering advice and support with regard to employment, learning opportunities, benefits and leisure. The week concludes with a karaoke competition.

For more details, log on to the website on www.carers.org.