A special lunch has been laid on for foster carers as a thank you from Kent County Council for all their hard work.

The event at Aylesford Priory, was also a training opportunity for the carers from Sevenoaks, Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells.

It included workshops on subjects ranging from education, health and emotional support to helping young people in care prepare for adult life and employment.

Social services chairman Keith Ferrin said: "Kent County Council's foster carers provide an essential services looking after children who have often been through difficult and traumatic experiences.

"We are very lucky to have such a dedicated, caring and enthusiastic army of carers and I hope that they know how much they are appreciated."

All the council's foster carers receive 24-hour support from social services, support groups and training and can also receive an extra "bounty" payment if they introduce a relative or friend to the council who later is approved as a foster carer. They can also undertake NVQ training.

If you would like to know more about fostering for Kent County Council ring 01474 328664.