MORE than 100 people, including a few famous faces, took centre stage to support young carers in Bolton.

A special evening held at the Octagon Theatre brought together some of the town's many young carers, their parents, support services, celebrities and music.

Healthwatch Bolton organised the event to raise awareness about young carers, who are hidden heroes in the town, supporting their parents and siblings when often no one else can, growing up before their time.

Olivia and Holly Hughes, aged 15 and 14, look after their mother who sufferers from diabetes, fibromyalgia and a thyroid problem.

Olivia said: "It's mostly that she feels exhausted. She used to work full time and it's my main responsibility to do the cooking. I also care for Holly and do the cleaning."

Holly said that she is now doing more and more as Olivia is studying towards her GCSEs.

Olivia praised her sister saying: "She's been really good."

Bolton Wanderers newest first team player, Connor Hall, who made his debut last week, attended the event as part of his new role as community player for inclusion.

Connor, who played against Huddersfield in the FA Cup, said: "Young carers are something I don't know a lot about but it's good to come here and see how other people live and to hear their stories.

"It can be a struggle for young kids. They've told me how it can affect their social lives and their schooling."

Connor was also joined by Coronation Street-star, Harry Visinoni, who plays young carer Seb in the TV soap, and Whites mascot Lofty the Lion.

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham was due to attend the evening but was involved in a car crash in Moor Lane on his way there.

He was unhurt but shaken and expressed his regret at not being able to attend.

The evening was a showcase for a new song called Growing Older, which has been written by Bolton singer/songwriter Casper Mason, who entertained the crowd at the event before a short film about young carers in Bolton was shown.

The audience also got a special screening of the music video for Growing Older.

The single, which is available to buy on iTunes and other online outlets for 79p, takes inspiration from the stories of young carers in Bolton, who shared their experiences as part of a Healthwatch project to improve the support these youngsters receive in the borough.

Half of the song's profits will go to young people's charities.