Long-serving foster carers in west London this week attended an awards ceremony to mark their achievement.

Richmond upon Thames social services department also held a ceremony to celebrate the achievement of care workers who have successfully completed NVQ courses.

The Mayor of Richmond, Councillor Barbara Westmorland presented the certificates and awards.

Among those honoured were foster carer June Pegram and residential social workers Daryl Clarke and Hazel Pollock who collected certificates of credit that go towards their NVQs.

Five foster families received awards for long service - four for 10 years of fostering and one for 25 years of fostering.

The council's adoption and fostering team is currently recruiting foster carers and has produced a free information pack. To get one call 020 8891 7754.