AN OXFORDSHIRE charity dished out hampers full of chocolates to young carers to celebrate their hard work during the coronavirus crisis.

From physical jobs such as shopping and cleaning, to the demanding task of providing emotional support, young carers have been navigating the difficulties of lockdown.

This is why Be Free Young Carers – the charity which supports more than 500 young people aged eight to 24 in Oxfordshire – collaborated with the Ray Collins Charitable Trust.

Young carers were given sizeable Cadbury's hampers as a 'thank you' for their efforts.

ALSO READ: Tattoo studio to reopen from Monday

The unexpected gesture took place on Thursday morning o Grove Street, Wantage, where the youngsters were surprised.

Trustee for the charity Lucy Pritchard said: "Both the Ray Collins Trust and Be Free Young Carers have been supporting local carers and local people through lockdown.

"The chocolate hampers seemed the perfect way to thank all the young carers for all they do for their families on a regular basis, especially during these uncertain times."

Anne, the mother of one of the young carers, praised the tow charities for their work during the pandemic.

The parent said: "'Just a quick thank you for the chocolate hamper, my daughter was absolutely made up and totally surprised.

"We have had a really difficult lockdown experience as support has been more limited, so this was a lovely gesture."