TWO Tavistock groups supporting carers can look forward to summer day trips courtesy of the Co-operative Group. 

Carers involved in Tavistock Memory Café will be treated to a lunch out while the people they care for are looked after by others thanks to a grant of £300. Carers from Tavistock Parkinsons Support Group will also enjoy an afternoon out, including lunch, with a donation of £300.

Zoe Bartlett-Casey, membership officer for the Co-operative and organiser of the funding scheme, said: 'Reading through the applications for funding for a day out for carers has really highlighted the fantastic work being done by support groups in the local area.

'I'm delighted we have been able to help these groups plan some much-needed respite for carers who give so much of their time to looking after a friend or family member.

'While all the fantastic fundraising work is going on across our business as we raise money for Carers Trust as our charity of the year, we were keen to offer a tangible benefit to this group of people to make a difference right away.'

Heather Rayne, from Tavistock Memory Café, said: 'The Co-operative funding will give our carers the opportunity for a much deserved break from their 24 hours a day, seven days a week role of looking after someone with dementia.

'It will be a rare chance for them to take time out and relax over a meal knowing that their loved ones are being looked after.

'We would very much like to express our gratitude to the Co-operative for their generous support.'