“WHO Cares” is the title of a poignant exhibition at Winchester Theatre Royal featuring the artwork of young carers from across the county.

More than 50 youngsters aged between five and 18 created the beautiful artwork with the help of professional artists Sue Kenneally and Sue Fox.

The children, who help care for disabled parents or siblings, took part in a series of workshops run by the two Sues over the past couple of years.

Pride of place on the wall is a large textile hanging inspired by the work of Andy Warhol which the children created over three months.

Comments from the young carers stitched into the colourful artwork complete with tin of Heinz beans include: “Family means a lot to me” and “Life is short. Live while you have a chance.” And “Sometimes their life seems a lot easier.”

Sue Fox said: “The children don’t get much ‘me’ time and that is why projects like this are so important to give them time away from their caring duties.

“They also get a chance to learn new skills.”

Some of the older children have even gone on to apply to art college.

The pair took the children on trips to Southampton City Council’s art gallery, Tate Modern in London and Mottisfont near Romsey to widen their cultural experiences and inspire them to get creative with colour and different techniques..

Among the artwork on display is a large picture called “Cool Britannia” created by the Eastleigh Young Carers group in 2012 to mark the Queen’s jubilee.

This followed a visit to the Tate Modern when the children saw the work of Japanese artist Yazui Kusama.

The youngsters, who also sketched the sights of London and took photographs, then created their own hard-carved rubber stamps to make the artwork.

Sue Kenneally said: “Some of the young carers had never been to London or even on a train before.”

The workshops are sponsored by a several organisations, including Hampshire County Council and Arts Council England but more sponsorship is needed. For details see sueandsue.com