Sutton’s hidden heroes had a surprise visitor at their coffee morning.

Unpaid carers were joined at the Sutton Carers Centre by the leader of Sutton Council, Ruth Dombey, who thanked them for their continued efforts.

Coun Dombey said: “It’s been a real privilege to visit Sutton Carers Centre today and get a taste of the work these people do on a daily basis.

“Carers are Sutton’s hidden local heroes as they work behind the scenes – but the tasks they do are absolutely vital for the people who rely on them.

“Many of these people don’t even realise how much they do so I wanted to visit today to let them know that we do recognise their extraordinary efforts, and just to say thank you.”

Debbie Ryan, 53, from Sutton, looks after a close family member and relies on the support of the centre.

She said: “If I didn’t have this place I’d go mad. It’s very hard to be a carer and I don’t think people really know how difficult it is. The people here do.”

Sutton Carers Centre operates from Benhill House, 12-14 Benhill Avenue, Sutton, Surrey SM1 4DA.

For more information contact them on 020 8296 5611 or email enquiries@suttoncarerscentre.org.

Further information can also be found on their website www.carers.org/local-service/sutton