Two lottery winners from Carlisle were among those who paid to host a giant circus themed party for carers and their siblings.
Ian and Sandra Black, from Carlisle – who won £2m this year – were two of the winners who helped to organise the day for 39 carers and their siblings at Blackpool Tower.
They were part of a group of donors made up of lottery winners from across the North West with a combined wealth of almost £40m.
During the afternoon of fun, which brought Carers Week 2022 to a close last week, carers aged from five to 17 had the opportunity to learn circus skills including juggling and plate spinning.
The young carers also had the chance to take part in circus crafts, face painting, balloon making and test their skills on a bucking bronco.
Andrew Gunn, respite lead at Blackpool Young Carers, said: “It really was an absolutely fantastic afternoon. We cannot thank the National Lottery winners enough.
“These carers work so tirelessly and it was so lovely to see them having an afternoon packed with so much fun. Just to see the smiles on their faces meant everything.
“It was wonderful for their parents and guardians to be able to sit back, relax and watch their children having so much fun – but actually learning new skills at the same time.”
One young carer, who looks after her mother and brother, said: “This was just the best day ever. I cannot believe I learned plate spinning. There were just so many great activities to choose from. I knew my mum was safe and it meant so much that she was actually able to be there with me seeing me having fun.”
Sandra said: “Young carers can so often be forgotten about – it is absolutely incredible what these young people do day in, day out. Being a mother myself, this actually brings tears to my eyes just hearing some of their stories.
“I am so pleased that myself and the other winners here today have been able to play a small part in bringing some joy into their lives. These are all amazing young people.”
