A POLITICIAN has praised carers in her constituency for their 'huge contribution to society'.

Banbury MP Victoria Prentis spoke after a 'speed-networking' event with carers and charities in Westminster this week.

She met three constituents involved with Which? Elderly Care, a free service providing advice about caring for older people across the UK.

The meeting ran to coincide with Carers Week 2018, which ends tomorrow.

Mrs Prentis said: "I was really pleased I was able to meet my constituents who, through the Which? Elderly Care website, provide essential advice for people who need it.

"According to the most recent census, there are almost 11,000 carers in North Oxfordshire.

"They make a huge contribution to our society.

"It is essential that we make sure they have the right support at the right time."

The MP said she welcomed progress on a new national carers strategy, which the Government is compiling to look at what more can be done to support carers.

Carers Week is an annual campaign, which runs nationally to recognise carers' work.

Mrs Prentis added: "I hope to see Carers Week go from strength to strength in the years to come."