Players from Peterborough United got the celebrations off to a kick start when foster carers in the city were honoured at an awards ceremony.

The players were joined by Deputy Mayor, Councillor Cliff Sneesby who presented the lon service awards.

He said: "All our carers are ordinary people doing an extraordinary job. The awards are given for each five years service and the 16 carers receiving awards this year have clocked up 210 years between them.

"In this time they have looked after 350 children. These awards are our chance to say a big thank you to our carers for their hard work and dedication."

The council's adoption and fostering team are always looking for more people interested in adopting or fostering a child.

Pat Twite, adoption and fostering resource officer, said: "We need people from all cultural and religious backgrounds and from all walks of life to become carers.

"Experience of children is an advantage but not essential. We would like to speak to anyone who can offer space, commitment and care to help a child through a difficult time."

It is also on the loookout for link carers, who provide regular short breaks for families of children with disabilities.

For more information on adoption and fostering, call 01733 746179 and for information on being a link carer, call Jean Mattock on 01733 746371.