EIGHTY young carers got a day off from their duties and the chance to have some fun.

Barnardo's and Durham community organisation Disc organised a fun day at the Glebe Centre, Murton, for carers aged seven to 17 from Durham, Derwentside and Easington. They are among an estimated 51,000 nationally who help care for sick or disabled relatives.

The event was based on the TV show The Crystal Maze and also featured a disco and buffet. The youngsters were given certificates.

One of the organisers, John Atkinson, of Barnardo's young carers scheme, said: "The average age of a young carer is only 12, but it is not uncommon to find much younger children having a caring role. Life can be difficult for many young carers, so we all organise as many trips and activities for them as we can."