FOR most it was the only chance of the year to really let their hair down.

Some were as young as ten but already they have the responsibilities of an adult.

All of the 1,500 young people that packed Fairthorne Manor in Curdridge this weekend had something in common - they are all young carers.

Each of them play a major role in helping to look after sick or disabled relatives - and for most it's a 24-hour job.

For 14-year-old Karen Vear, the weekend was an event she was determined to enjoy. For the rest of the year she has the responsibility of helping to look after her brother and sister, who between them have a range of learning difficulties including epilepsy and autism.

Karen, from Eastleigh, said: "Sometimes it is hard but it is something that I have always done. I generally keep an eye on them and make sure they're OK."

Hannah Vaughan, 13, plays a big part in looking after her mum who, as a sufferer of Muscular Sclerosis, is wheelchair-bound.

Hannah, from Winchester, said: "It is something I have always done and I wouldn't know what it was like not to look after someone."

For Hannah and Karen, the weekend was their chance to forget their responsibilities and have a good time - and that they certainly did.

Called Less Talk - More Action, the weekend, staged by the Children's Society and the South East Hampshire YMCA, was a chance for carers from as far afield as Scotland to come together and share their experiences of caring.

For two days the youngsters were given a host of activities to try, including IT-based challenges and canoeing.

There was also a Fame Academy-style talent contest, while the more laid back visitors could just take it easy in the chillout zone.