John Thurso pledges his support for Carers Week 2010

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 10th Jun 2010

Local MP, John Thurso, has pledged his support for this year's Carers Week (14-20 June) which highlights the contribution made by those people throughout the UK who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled.

The theme for Carers Week 2010 is 'A life of my own' and calls for carers to receive greater recognition for the work they carry out, so vital for their families and friends, and for their communities. All too often, these unsung heroes are also sacrificing their own health, both physical and mental.

John Thurso said:

"Whether the chance to have a long bath or a full night's sleep - these are luxuries for many of the thousands of carers in the Far North. They deserve to be recognised for the priceless contribution they make to their loved ones, to our local community and to society at large.

"I am supporting Carers Week and want to express my respect and gratitude to all our carers. I want to ensure that those who feel isolated and lonely because of caring, learn about the services and support out there to help them."

Celebrities supporting Carers Week, all of whom have experience of caring , include Sir David Jason, Lynda Bellingham, Cilla Black, Jonathan Dimbleby, Gloria Hunniford, Claire King, Phyllida Law, Miriam Margolyes, Esther Rantzen, Angela Rippon, Tony Robinson, John Stapleton and Chris Steele.

Carers Week is organised by a partnership of 7 national charities: Carers UK, Counsel and Care, Crossroads Care, Help the Hospices, Macmillan Cancer Support, Parkinson's UK and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers.

For more information about local events and activities taking place as part of Carers Week, visit www.carersweek.org or call 0845 241 2582

Carers Week 2010 takes place from 14-20 June 2009 and highlights the vital work carried out by those who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled.