IN recognition of national Carers Week, Alexandra Park in Oldham is opening its gates to walkers.

The carers walk is in recognition of some 24,000 unpaid carers, including over 500 young carers in the borough.

Kicking off at 11am tomorrow, Friday, June 11, the walk, which is open to all carers, will start outside the Boathouse Café in the park, with light refreshments included.

Organised by Oldham Council, the walk is part of a national campaign to "Make Caring Visible and Valued" during Carers Week, which aims to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK.

It also helps people who do not think of themselves as having caring responsibilities to identify as carers and access much-needed support.

A carer is anyone who provides unpaid care for a friend or family member who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem, or an addiction, cannot cope without their support.

Unpaid carers who need support can contact the council’s Carers Service on 0161 770 7777.

For more information on Oldham’s Carers Service visit Oldham Council's website.