FRIENDS and family members from across the county are being invited to swap each other’s shoes and walk a mile around Pittville Park in Cheltenham, to raise money for Carers Gloucestershire.

Organisers of the event are asking people to dig out their funky flippers, sparkly stilettos and weird wellies to raise money and show their support for Gloucestershire’s unpaid carers from 11am on June 11.

The fun event costs just £10 to register for adults and £5 for children, to include a Walk a Mile in My Shoes T-Shirt, goody bag and sponsor pack. Carers Gloucestershire Chief Executive, Tim Poole said:

“Our popular Walk a Mile in My Shoes event is now in its fifth year, and since its inception has raised thousands of pounds to help us offer services and support to the county’s unpaid carers.

“But as well as raising money, we want to raise awareness and ask people to think for a moment about what it might be like to be in the shoes of one of the estimated 63,000 people in Gloucestershire who have caring responsibilities.

“We know that many carers care for someone for more than 50 hours a week, which can have a significant impact on their everyday lives, affecting their employment, social life and their health and well-being.

“We want carers to know that we are here for them, and for the wider public to recognise the issues facing unpaid carers and the contribution that they make to society.”

After the walk, the charity is hosting a Big Birthday Bash in the park to mark its 25th anniversary.

The event will bring together hundreds of carers and their families to take a break from their usual routine and have a memorable day out.

The partygoers will be able to enjoy music and dance performances, a range of craft, relaxation and music workshops plus browse an array of stalls offering arts, crafts and street food.

Face-painting, a climbing wall, kite-flying and arts activities will be on hand to entertain children. Everyone is welcome to come along, no need to register.