The first of a series of lunches set up to support and befriend carers has proved a success after organisers stopped a man from committing suicide.

Members of Oxfordshire Carers Forum launched their network luncheons last week, at the George Hotel, in Wallingford.

Carers can talk and listen to people who look after ill and infirm relatives.

During the event, they became concerned about a male carer, who was so distressed about his situation that they immediately took action to help him.

Forum vice chairman Pamela Richards said: "People were able to bring their worries and we took notes.

"One man was suicidal and so we took action.

"We were able to offer support and make phone calls that he felt unable to make.

"We think we did the right thing and we definitely saved him from hurting himself."

Free network lunches are being held in hotels and restaurants across the county so carers can discuss their problems and concerns.

Oxfordshire Carers Forum has offered to help their guests with travel arrangements and with the cost of organising alternative care for relatives.

Mrs Richards said: "Some people don't realise there's help out there and they don't recognise themselves as carers.

"If you look after your husband, parent or severely disabled child, you do it because you're close to them.

"There's no stigma recognising yourself as a carer, but we know caring can wear people out.

"We're trying to make these people aware that they're not isolated and that there are people willing to help."

The next luncheons are being held at the Oxford Spires Four Pillars Hotel, in Abingdon Road, Oxford, on October 28, and The Bird in Hand, in White Oak Green, Hailey, near Witney, on October 31. Both events start at 11am.

Other luncheons are being organised for north Oxfordshire later in the year.

Anyone who would like to attend should call 01993 708020, or write to Oxfordshire Carers Forum, Freepost SCE 9038, Witney, OX28 4GZ.