Volunteer carers who help look after disabled people have had a civic thank you from the city's Lord Mayor.

Councillor Mary Carr, presented awards to volunteers from Newcastle City Council's Shared Care Service last week in one of a series of events to celebrate 20 years of the service.

Shared Carers do just that - they share the care of disabled children and adults with the person's own family to give parents and brother and sisters a break.

The carers take an adult or a child into their home for anything from a few hours a week to a few days a month, involving them in everyday activities and social events. Often the scheme allows the disabled person to develop new and lasting friendships.

Hundreds of people have volunteered to help the service over the years, among them Maud Hodgson, who has been a Shared Carer ever since the service began.

Councillor Carr said of shared carers: "Their dedication over the past 20 years is laudable and has achieved so much and enhanced lives throughout the city."

As part of its celebrations, the service is also holding a garden party at the Welford Day Centre on June 23 when those interested can find out more about the service and its work. Anyone intersted can also call 0191 278 8106 or 278 8108.