AS TONY Robinson mentioned in last week's 'Post,' Carers' Week has come round again (June 8 to 14). Fortunately, the invaluable work that carers do is becoming more widely recognised, but there are still some people who think that they are not an 'official' carer because they do not qualify for the allowance. Not so. Anyone who regularly helps someone retain some independence is a carer, and there are people who can help and support them.

All week, outside Morrisons in Bude, there will be representatives of various agencies and groups who may be able to improve carers' lives, and those of the people they care for.

Denise Seaton, the Carer Support Worker will be there on Monday. She is very keen to reach out to people who may not realise what help is available. She also co-ordinates the local groups who meet regularly to talk to other people who understand the emotions and problems that carers have to cope with.

The Bude Group meets on the first Wednesday of every month, usually at the Neetside Centre in Bude but occasionally at other venues for variety. They would like to invite anyone who helps someone, even if it's only for a few hours a week, to drop in for a chat over tea (or coffee) and biscuits.

Ex-carers are also warmly welcome. For more information, contact Denise Seaton on 01872 243531, email denise.seaton@cornwall rcc.co.uk or write to her Carer Support Manager CRCC, 2 Princes Street, Truro TR1 2ES.