TWO free events will be held for carers in Kirklees to help improve their own wellbeing.

People who spend all their time looking after sick or aged relatives will have the chance to relax, try new activities, and learn about the help and support available to them.

An event will be held at Huddersfield Sports Centre on Friday April 23 from 1pm - 4pm.

In South Kirklees, carers can enjoy themselves a day earlier at Dewsbury Sports Centre, on Thursday, April 22, again from 1pm to 4pm.

Free refreshments will be provided.

Carers will also have an opportunity to sign up for a carer's emergency card and receive a free bag of give-aways.

The emergency card gives peace of mind to carers and the person they look after.

If a carer is taken ill or has an accident, the card tells the emergency services that they are a carer.

This enables arrangements to be made to ensure that the person they look after gets the help and support they need.

The free giveaways will include an energy saving lightbulb, an Active for Life notebook and pen, single public swim pass and a free pass for the over-50s OWLS social organisation.

The Mayor of Kirklees Clr Barbara Allonby will attend the Huddersfield event and the Deputy Mayor Clr Mary Harkin will attend the Dewsbury function.

Clr Sylvia Smithson, the council cabinet member with responsibility for social services, said: "This event gives carers the opportunity to look at their own health needs and to find out what leisure activities are available to them, alongside their caring responsibilities."

Clr John Smithson, the council cabinet member with responsibility for education and recreation, said: "As a carer your time is precious.

"Although it can be rewarding caring for a friend or relative, it can also be stressful and exhausting.

"By taking an active break you may find that you have more energy, feel healthier and are more able to deal with the pressures of caring for someone."

All the activities at both events will be free for any carers who wish to try them.

They will include opportunities for: a blood pressure check; a short, guided walk; an exercise class; an afternoon guided tour of the Peak Physique fitness suite; a PALS active lifestyle evaluation and taster session; table tennis; badminton; a chair-based exercise class and swimming and pampering sessions.

Advice and information will be available on how to stop smoking and about healthy eating.

There will also be tips on saving money by making your home energy efficient and on pensions.

Anyone who would like to know more about the events, or who needs help with transport or care cover, should ring Kirklees Social Services Carers' Gateway on 01484 226050.