Carers' work in spotlight at Towneley Park's unusual walk

The grand total of Â£2,585 was raised as the public took to Towneley Park, donning unusual footwear to '˜walk a mile in another's shoes' in celebration of Carers Week, which seeks to raise awareness about the crucial role carers play in society.

The walk, in support of Carers Link Lancashire, was attended by MP Julie Cooper, who campaigned for free hospital parking for carers earlier this year, as well as the Mayor of Burnley.

Rebecca Hodgson, CEO of Carers Link Lancashire, said: “The day enabled us to celebrate the noble roles of the 8,500 carers we are currently supporting alongside fundraising for our charity.”

15-year-old Paiton Harrison, who has cared for her mother Saira Bhatti since she was six, won the Accrington Lions’ ‘Pride of Accrington’ award before visiting the Mayor’s Parlour on Monday.

“I wouldn’t change a thing,” said Paiton. “I care about my mum and love her so much, if I didn’t look after her, no one else will.

Saira, 47, who called Paiton a ‘real superstar, a true angel’, praised her daughter, saying: “I would be truly lost without her, I am very blessed. She is simply an amazing young lady.”