YOUNG carers from across the country travelled to Booker airfield last Tuesday for a day of flying.

More than 150 youngsters took to the skies as part of Fly the Young Carers Day, a national scheme to share experiences with those who would not usually have the opportunity to do so.

The young carers, who all come from The Princess Royal Trust for Carers, all flew for half an hour with light aircraft pilots who volunteered their time for the day.

Mike Benjamin, event organiser and trained pilot, said: "We know that as pilots we are very privileged to be able to fly in light aircraft. These young people rarely get the chance to go on holiday, let alone go on a plane. Going in a small plane is a very special experience and we think these kids deserve a real treat."

A young carer is a child or young person under the age of 18 carrying out significant caring tasks and assuming a level of responsibility for another person, which would normally be taken by an adult.