Skipton and Ripon MP Julian Smith is supporting Carers Week and celebrating the contribution made by the thousands of people who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled.

The theme of Carers Week – which started on Monday – is “A Life of My Own” and it calls for greater understanding and support for carers who provide vital care for their families, friends and communities while sacrificing much in their own lives.

Julian met ITV’s This Morning celebrity GP, Dr Chris Steele, at the House of Commons to pay tribute to carers and to urge that they receive more support.

He said: “Little things that many of us take for granted, like a trip to the cinema or a full night’s sleep, are luxuries for many of the thousands of carers across Skipton. That’s why I am supporting Carers Week and all those helping to raise awareness of carers. They make a priceless contribution to our community.”

For information about Carers Week, including local activities, visit carersweek.org or call 0845 241 2582.