A CAMPAIGN to raise awareness of the work carers do in Burnley and Padiham is being backed by the town's MP.

Kitty Ussher MP is supporting Carers Week, which begins on June 9, and paying tribute to the huge contribution that carers make, every day of the year, to those they look after, and to their communities.

The week - now in its 14th year - tackles the issue of carers' health with a hard-hitting campaign headlining the sobering fact that "carers can't afford to be ill."

It aims to publicise that support, advice and practical help is available for those who may be feeling isolated, exhausted or ill as a result of their caring responsibilities.

Celebrities including television and film actress Pam Ferris, who starred in The Darling Buds of May and the Harry Potter movies, are also backing the campaign.

Mrs Ussher said: "There are six million carers in the UK, including many in Burnley & Padiham and I'm pleased to be able to offer my support to them.

"It's a nationwide issue that affects so many people at a local level and it's vital we can get the message out to our wonderful carers that help and support is available.

"I hope that by drawing attention to Carers Week with Pam, many more of my constituents who spend their lives looking after others will realise they are not alone and that there are people who want to care about them, too."

A host of other well-known faces are supporting Carers Week, including Paul O'Grady, Tony Robinson and media health experts, Dr Miriam Stoppard and Dr Chris Steele.