The dedication and hard work of North Ayrshire’s carers is to be celebrated during a week of special events.

Carers Week, which runs until June 17, will see a series of activities aimed specifically at those who give up their own time to look after family members or friends.

Throughout the week, there will be a range of activities at Gowanlea Day Centre in Kilbirnie, Stevenson Day Cay Care in Largs, and Stronach Day Centre on Arran.

There are also a number of events being laid on for young carers including a street dance workshop, go-karting and a mocktail party.

To mark the end of the week, carers will be attending the Year of Young People Family Fun Day at Springside Community Centre on Saturday, June 16.

Councillor Christina Larsen, North Ayrshire’s Carers Champion, said: “Carers do an incredible job of supporting family and friends.

“This week is about celebrating the work carried out by carers and to let them know how much they are appreciated.”

A staff member from the Health and Social Care Partnership, who is also the main carer for her husband, has been invited to attend the Queen’s Garden Party in Edinburgh on July 4.

Margaret Gould is a Senior Day Care Officer at Gowanlea Day Service in Kilbirnie. Margaret was nominated to represent local carers and to highlight the work and support shown by the staff at Gowanlea to service users and carers, past and present.

Carers in North Ayrshire can also take advantage of the Carers Appreciation Card which will entitles them to discounts, concessions and offers.

Find out more about support for carers, carers rights and the Carers Appreciation Card at http://www. nahscp.org/ support-for-carers/.