THERE are more than six million carers in the UK and about 1.2 million spend over 50 hours a week on their caring responsibilities, while around 20 per cent have never had a holiday.

Without payment, they provide help and support to a partner, child, relative or neighbour who could not manage alone without them.

It is so important that everyone understands and appreciates the enormous contribution carers make to our society.

Not only do they give their time and love generously, they save an estimated £57bn a year.

I am therefore delighted to have the opportunity of launching The Princess Royal Trust for Carers Take a Break for Carers 2004 taking place between Friday, October 22 and Friday, November 19.

The aim is to raise awareness of carers' needs and the support provided by The Princess Royal Trust for Carers Network.

Funds raised will go towards the work of the local centres and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers Network.

Carers' Centres and supporters will be running a range of Take a Break activities across the country. Coffee mornings to wine tasting, games nights and quizzes are all on the agenda. Donations from guests at the events will go towards the work of local Carers' Centres and The Princess Royal Trust for Carers Network.

Some groups might even 'take a break from" drinking or smoking and donate the money saved!

Anyone wanting more information can call 020 77091309 or e-mail tab@carers.org for a fund-raising pack.

PAM FERRIS,

Vice President,

The Princess Royal Trust for Carers

142 Minories, London.