A West Midlands fostering project is to be launched today by Big Brother star Dean O'Loughlin.

Dean, who was one of final three finalists in the hit show , will open Barnardo's 8 to 18 Family Placement project.

Dean, who is married, was chosen for the Valentines opening because of his romantic image during the Big Brother show.

The project manager for the scheme, Bob Woods, was very excited about whole project. He hoped that more people would come forward to become foster carers.

He said the service would also provide support groups for children and carers.

Foster carers are paid weekly and can be single or in a relationship, working or not and with or without their own children at home.