YOUNGSTERS who care for family members, and servicemen and women who have risked their lives for others, are the focus of the Mayor of Hillingdon's Charity Appeal.

Councillor Brian Crowe launched his appeal for Hillingdon Young Carers and the Soldiers, Sailors, and Airmen Families Association (SSAFA) last Wednesday at the civic centre in High Street, Uxbridge.

Young Carers provide care for a relative such as washing and dressing, giving medication, shopping, cooking and looking after younger siblings.

The mayor wants to raise money for them to go for a few days to a residential centre to have a real break from their caring responsibilities and mix with others of a similar age.

Councillor Crowe said: "These children who go home to run the household may lose their childhood. I am told if they get away for 48 hours the youngsters can be a bit boisterous, and I don't blame them."

Mr Crowe also wants to help volunteers in the Hillingdon Divi-sion of SSAFA. He said: "The SSAFA is not just about injury and bereavement, but helps families with difficulties."

Claire Thomas, chief officer of Hillingdon Carers, in High Street, Uxbridge, said: "We are supporting 700 children. They often miss making friends and do less well at school because of poor attendance."

For every £2,000 raised, ten children enjoy a break in a safe, supervised residential centre. [25a0] Send donations to: The Mayor's Parlour, Civic Centre, Uxbridge, Middlesex UB8 1UW (cheques to The Mayor's Charity Appeal 2008-09).

A quiz night in aid of the appeal will be held on July 23 at the Battle of Britain Club, Hillingdon Road, Uxbridge, at 7.30pm. Call Nicholas Smith on 0208 273 5960.